101 Handmade Gift Ideas

82. Little Peeps Baby Blanket

2007-11-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

Peep Pattern

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cut five 14" squares of lilac calico. Cut four 14" squares of lime calico. Cut eleven 2-1/2" strips for binding; strips should measure 2-1/2" x 18". Set aside.
For each square, enlarge chick body, feet, and beak pattern 200% and trace on paper side of Heat 'n Bond®. Follow manufacturer's directions to fuse body tracing to chenille, and feet and beak to orange calico. Cut and fuse to squares.
Machine appliqué as desired, using zigzag, button-hole, or straight stitch.
With colors alternating, sew blocks together in rows of three. Sew rows together.
Cut one 44" x 44" square of flannel for backing. Cut one 44" x 44" square of batting.
To layer, place backing right side down and lay batting over backing. Place quilt top right side up on top of the batting. Beginning at the center of the quilt top, pin the layers together every 4” to 6", smoothing the fabric as you work toward the edges.
Quilt as desired, or use photo for reference. If machine quilting, use a quilting foot. Adjust stitch length to 6 to 12 stitches per inch, and loosen upper tension if using invisible thread. Begin in the center of the quilt top and quilt outward in all directions.
Sew the eleven 2-1/2" x 18" strips together end-to-end in alternating colors to form the binding. Press all seams open. With wrong sides together, fold and press the binding strip in half lengthwise. Turn the short raw edge of the binding strip to the inside.
Beginning at the center of one side, match the raw edges of the binding strip and the quilt top. Begin sewing the binding to the quilt top through all layers. Stop sewing 1/4" from the corner of the quilt top; backstitch and clip threads. To sew the corners, remove quilt top from under presser foot. Fold the binding strip up, creating a diagonal fold. Hold this fold in place with a finger. Fold the binding down to create a fold at the top edge and align with the adjacent quilt edge. Sew through the top fold, stitching through all layers. Continue around quilt, repeating diagonal fold at each corner.
When the binding meets at the start point, insert end of the binding into the folded binding and continue stitching. Clip threads and remove quilt from the sewing machine.
Trim excess batting and backing even with the quilt top. Fold binding over the seam to the back of the quilt. Hand-stitch the binding to the backing fabric to cover machine stitching.
Make small bows and attach at each chick neck. Sew black beads in place for eyes. Double stitch bows and beads to secure firmly. Alternate eye option: use DMC® black floss or pearl cotton to create a French knot.

Approximate Crafting Time: 8 hours
Skill Level: Intermediate

RESOURCE: Sewing.org

81. Bird House

2007-11-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Using your 1 1/2" dril bit, drill a hole in the middle of your gourd.
using your spoon or other tool, scoop out the gourd interior. (you can skip this step by purchasing a ready-made Gourd from your craft store)
allow to dry
measure the diameter of your perch material, using the same/similar diameter drill bit, drill a hole one inch below your entry hole.
with the smallest drill bit, drill a hole in the top 1/2" on the gourd. This will be for your hanging wire.
If you so choose, paint your gourd (exterior only), and allow to dry
once dry, glue your perch into it's hole.
thread your wire (or other material) through the top holes

Resource: Two Straight Lines

80. Altoid iPod Speakers

2007-11-13T11:35:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

INSTRUCTIONS

Dismantle the headphones and remove the speakers.
Use a pin to poke a small hole in each of two playing cards, then glue the speakers to the cards, lining up each speaker with the hole.
Use the awl to poke a hole in the back of each tin, then thread the speaker wire through the holes.
Reconnect the wires by twisting them together and burning the plastic coating off with a lighter. Then tape them off.
Place the foam padding from the headphones inside the tins, open side up, to cushion the speakers.
Trim the cards to fit inside the tins, place them inside (use glue if necessary). Note: The sound will be a little tinny.

Resource: Readymade

79. Going Green T-Shirt Shopping Bags

2007-11-13T11:16:00.000-07:00

Turning an old T-shirt into a reusable shopping or grocery bag is a simple, clever craft to help everyone be "green." It's a Good Thing that will help protect the environment.

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Turn T-shirt inside out and pin bottom of the T-shirt along the hem. Using a sewing machine, sew bottom of T-shirt closed. Flip shirt right side out and lay flat on table, making sure all seams are lined up.
Place medium-size bowl about half-way over the neck hole. Using a water-erasable marking pen, trace along the edge of the bowl. Cut along the outline, making sure to go through the front and back sides of the shirt, in order to create an opening for the bag that's larger than what the neck hole allows.
Line up the hems on the front and back side of the sleeve and cut, making sure to go through both sides of the shirt. Repeat on the other sleeve. Tip: A jersey shirt would also work well for this craft, as it is already sleeveless, and it's made of a great mesh material.

Resource: Martha Stewart

78. Bath Mits

2007-11-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

For a generous source of lather and to put an end to searching for the soap on the bottom of the tub, slip a soap bar into a pocket made from a luxurious terry washcloth.

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

fold the washcloth in half, and cut it to the desired length.
Tape a 2 1/2-inch loop of cotton cord inside the folded cloth.
Stitch along the bottom and side edges, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance (make sure to catch the ends of the loop).
Turn the pocket right side out.
After each use, hang the washcloth mitt by its loop to dry.

Resource: Martha Stewart

77. Mock Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars

2007-01-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

CAKE INGREDIENTS:

LEMON FROSTING:

DRIZZLED ICING:

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 F.
Make the cake by beating the softened butter and brown sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, powdered ginger, salt and beat well. Gradually mix in flour until smooth. Mix the 3/4 cup dried cranberries and white chocolate into the batter by hand. Pour batter into a well greased 9x13 inch baking pan and use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the pan.
Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cake is light brown on edges. Allow cake to cool.
Make the lemon frosting by combining the softened cream cheese, 3 cups of powdered sugar, lemon juice and vanilla extract in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. When the cake has fully cooled, use a spatula to spread the frosting over the top of the cake. Then sprinkle the 1/4 cup of diced dried cranberries onto the frosting.
For the drizzled icing, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and shortening. Drizzle the icing over the cranberries and lemon frosting in a sweeping motion or with a pastry bag.
Allow cake to sit for several hours and then cut into bars.

Resource: My Little Mochi

76. Gourmet Treats

2007-01-17T16:45:00.000-07:00

CHOCOLATE COVERED PRETZELS

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Melt milk chocolate chips in double boiler or in microwave (be careful not to burn in the micro).
If you are using the white chocolate, wait until later before melting unless you can keep it over warm water.
Dip each pretzel rod about 2/3 of the way up in chocolate.
Lay on wax paper lined baking sheets, lining up the rods but leave a bit of space between them.
Allow to set a little, but not completely dry (while waiting, make sure your white chocolate is ready).
Dip a fork into the white chocolate and drizzle over the milk chocolate by gently swishing the fork back and forth over the rods but not touching them.
Place your sprinkles or candies on a paper plate and roll each pretzel rod in desired topping (or just sprinkle on).
Lay back on wax paper to set completely.
These look great displayed in, or given in, a unique glass or mug.

Resource: Recipe Zaar

CHOCOLATE COVERED CARAMEL CORN

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine brown sugar, butter, syrup and salt in a saucepan.
Boil 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and add the baking soda and vanilla.
Stir well and then pour over popped corn in a large roaster. (If you have to put into two large tinfoil buttered roasters, it will be easier to stir in two pans.)
Bake in oven at 250 degrees for one hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
Pour onto waxed paper and cool.
Break up into pieces.

Melt chips, marshmallows, butter and water for about four minutes in the microwave, stirring until smooth. (You can do this on the stove top too, just melt until very smooth.)
Place the cooled caramel corn and peanuts, if using, in a large roasting pan.
Toss chocolate over the caramel corn and toss well.
Spread out again onto the waxed paper to cool, separating the pieces.

Resource: Recipe Zaar

75. Easy Batik Runner

2007-01-16T18:30:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

template

INSTRUCTIONS

Fit a gel bleach pen (available at grocery stores) with a 1/2-millimeter, stainless steel tip.
hem cotton canvas—natural fibers work best—into 16-inch square napkins and a 12-inch-wide runner; store-bought linens will do.
Test a discreet area to make sure the fabric reacts well to the bleach. Use a water-soluble dressmaker's pencil to mark a grid on the fabric; where the lines intersect, create a 2-inch square, as pictured.
With the bleach pen, draw a freehand flower within each square and add dotted lines between flowers. (Or download the template here.)
Let the bleach set until the pattern has faded to the desired shade, about 20 minutes.
To rinse, lay the fabric flat in a shallow pan of cold water; let stand for a few minutes (work in sections for the runner).

Resource: Martha Stewart

74. Marble Magnets

2007-01-15T15:13:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Using a paper punch, cut out decorative paper rounds. Since the marbles are irregularly shaped, you may have to trim the rounds to match. You can also trace the glass marble onto the paper using a pencil and cut out the shape.
Using Sobo glue (or clear silicone adhesive), affix the printed side of the paper to a glass marble. Let the glue dry, and press out any bubbles.
Using super glue, affix a magnet to the back of the paper. Let dry a few hours before using. Packaged in small boxes or tins, the magnets make wonderful gifts.
Package the magnets in a recycled tin (like an altoids tin) for gifting

Resources: Not Martha
Martha Stewart

73. Bitty booties

2007-01-14T23:02:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

INSTRUCTIONS:

pattern

Resource: Heather Bailey Design

72. Photo Blocks

2007-01-13T21:45:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Using ruler & exacto knife, cut photograph into 4 2"x3" pieces
Glue each image to the linoleum blocks
with foam brush, coat the top of each image with the gel medium (to protect)

Resource Photojojo

71. Soup Wreaths

2007-01-11T15:13:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

For Chicken Soup choose 6 of the following:
- Rosemary
- Small lovage leaves
- Thyme
- Parsley
- Celeriac leaves
- Lavender
- Garlic chives
- Lemongrass
- Garlic leaves
- Winter savory
- Sweet marjoram
- Lemon basil
For Beef or Pork based soups choose 6 of the following:
- Rosemary
- Tarragon
- Chervil
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Basil
- Savory
- Hyssop
- Onion leaves
- Bay
- Chives
- Small hot peppers
- Garlic chives
For Vegetarian based soups, pick from either list

INSTRUCTIONS

To begin the wreath, gather your ingredients. You will need about 6 sprigs of herbs in varying lengths. Longer pieces can be woven into the wreath more easily than shorter ones. You will probably also want 3 or 4 shorter pieces to add into the wreath for bulk and variety.
Choose a sprig of rosemary or a similar woody, long-stemmed herb, about 12 to 14 inches long. Bend it into a loop that is about 4 inches in diameter, twisting the ends around each other. You don’t need to tie it in place, simply hold it together with your thumb and finger, then add another long-stemmed herb, twisting it over and around the first one and overlapping the ends of the first.
Continue adding additional sprigs — a piece of sage, some thyme, onion leaves, garlic chives and others — until your wreath looks full. Keep in mind the wreath will shrink as it dries, so add enough herbs to keep it looking full after it dries.
Add a long leaf, such as an onion top from winter onions or a leaf of lemongrass, at the very last, spiraling it like a ribbon all the way around to secure all of the herbs and give it a finished look.
The two ends of the spiraled leaf can be tucked under some of the other herbs and any loose ends can be trimmed off with pruners. You also may want to tuck in a nice, small red pepper or a sprig of golden marjoram for some color. Chive flowers dry well, as do garlic chive blossoms and oregano. Tuck the stem into the wreath so it is secure.
Now you are ready to dry your wreath. The simplest way is to put it in a dark, dry place, like a pantry or a cabinet, until it is dry. Even the oven, without heat, works well. It’s important to dry your wreath out of light in order to maintain the vibrant color and flavor of your herb. DO NOT DRY YOUR WREATH IN THE MICROWAVE - it zaps all of the essential oils out of the herbs.
Once your wreath is completely dry, you are ready to attach a recipe card containing instructions for using the wreath with a ribbon or string .

Recipes:
Wintertime Chicken Soup

2 1⁄2 quarts of water
2 chicken breasts, cut in pieces
1 stalk celery, diced
1⁄2 cup diced onion
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1⁄4 cup rice or pasta, optional
Cooking wreath
Dash salt and pepper, to taste

Bring water to a boil and add chicken and vegetables. Cook until chicken is tender, about 20 minutes. Add rice or pasta and reduce heat to a simmer, cooking 10 to 15 minutes. When you add rice or pasta, also remove the ribbon from the cooking wreath and add the wreath to the pot of simmering soup. Simmer until done, add salt and pepper to taste, remove wreath and serve.

Vegetarian Vegetable

2 1⁄2 quarts of water
Assorted, diced vegetables, such as celery, carrots, turnip, cabbage, onion and garlic
1⁄4 cup rice or pasta
Cooking wreath
Dash salt and pepper, to taste

Bring water to a boil. Add vegetables and simmer until tender, about 20 minutes. Add rice or pasta and simmer until nearly tender. Add the cooking wreath (with the ribbon removed) and simmer for another 10 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste, remove wreath and serve.

Resource: Herb Companion

70. Matchbook Note pad

2007-01-10T16:24:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Cut a 2" x 5" strip of cardstock. Score at 2", 2-1/4", and 4-1/2". Fold into a matchbook shape. For the pages, cut 1-3/4" x 2" squares of paper (use a paper trimmer for best results).
Place the stack of papers on the carstock, fold the bottom flap up over the papers and secure with a staple (leaving room for the top flap to tuck in). Decorate the cover as desired.
Put a few matchbook notebooks in a little bag along with some golf pencils for a cute and easy "thinking of you" gift.

* You can make larger versions of these using the same basic ratio:
- For a 4" x 10" cover, score at 4", 4-1/2", and 9". Cut pages to 3-1/2" x 4" squares.

Source: Dub and Sam

69. Wine glass charms

2007-01-10T11:06:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Slip one bead onto your earring hoop. If making 4 charms (or 8, or 12), make sure each bead is a different color.
Using your needle-nosed pliers bend the female end of the earring hoop so that it's a 90 degree angle (see images below)
package in a small tin or container

Source: Not Martha

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Source: Martha Stewart

68. Leaf Notions

2007-01-09T22:39:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

INSTRUCTIONS

Stamp white-ink leaf images onto colored felt: Make three images for a needle book; two images for a scissors holder or a pincushion. To set ink, cover felt with muslin and iron on medium setting. Let dry, then cut out shapes.
For needle book “stem,” cut a 3-by-1/4-inch felt strip. Glue to the base of one leaf. Glue second leaf to the first at the base; repeat with third leaf. For scissors holder, glue two leaves together along edges, leaving an opening at stem end. For the pincushion, glue leaves together, leaving a small opening; let dry. Using the funnel, pour sand into opening until pouch is almost full; close opening with more glue.

Source: Martha Stewart

67. Scented Sugars

2007-01-08T18:24:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

INSTRUCTIONS:

Layer granulated sugar with aromatic edibles like scented geranium leaves, rose petals, orange and lemon peel (first set out for a day to dry), or vanilla beans. Mix small batches, and let them sit for a few days in tightly sealed jars while the scents infuse the sugar. One jar or a trio serves makes an unusual present for whomever you think could use a little sweetness.

Source: Martha Stewart

66. Soda Can Pins

2007-01-07T09:39:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

First get an empty, cleaned soda pop can. And take the top off of it with a can opener.
Once the top is off, cut the pop can down the center.
Now cut the bottom end off the pop can.
You can take a brayer to flaten out the metal of the soda pop can.
Now place the flatten soda can metal down on the plastic board of your sizzix machine. Place your favorite die right on top. (If you don't have a sizzix machine, draw the shape you'd like to cut out, directly on the can & cut with scissors.)
pull down on the handle to die cut the shape out of the soda can.
do the same thing with a foam sheet (the foam needs to be the same size and shape as your soda can design)
take your 2 cut shapes , one soda can shape and one foam shape, and glue them togther.
Once it is dried you can glue a pin back on or a magnet to the back side (the foam side)

Source: PC Crafts

65. Handmade Dolls

2007-01-07T09:20:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

Doll template

INSTRUCTIONS:

Use the template(PDF). Fold a 10-by-18-inch piece of washable fabric (for body) end to end, right sides facing; lay template on fabric with dotted lines of shoulders on fold, and cut out along solid lines; pin. From a nearly 10-inch square of cotton jersey (for skin), cut a 3-by-7-inch strip (for head) and four 2-inch squares (for hands and feet).
Starting at bottom outer edge of one leg, stitch up side to end of arm, with a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Repeat on other side of body. Sew inner edges of the legs. Notch curves on body. Fold head rectangle in half lengthwise; pin. Starting at the fold, stitch a curved shape across short end, as shown, and continue stitching down open side; snip away excess fabric, keeping 1/8-inch seam allowance. Turn both pieces right side out.
Cut three 2-by-7-inch strips of wool or polyester batting; lay in star shape, as shown. Roll more batting into a 2-inch ball; place on star. Bring strips up and around ball; use a chopstick and your fingers to push batting inside head. Head should be firm; add more batting if necessary, smoothing with fingers.
Tie thread the same color as skin around head below ball to create a neck. Stitch bottom opening closed. For hands and feet, place 1-inch ball of batting on each square; bundle, tying with thread.
Stuff body, but not as firmly as head. Use gathering stitch to tighten neck opening. Slip head into neck opening. With a doubled length of skin-colored thread, whipstitch head to body, folding under raw edge of body. Repeat for hands and feet.
Use pins to mark placement of features. Sew on yarn (for hair) in loops; to keep it in place, make an extra, tiny anchoring stitch at the end of every loop. For features, insert a needle threaded with embroidery floss through the back of the head and out at a pin. Stitch features; needle should exit at the back of the head. Tie off.
Snip loops of hair, and fluff. Use your fingers to shape the face.

Source: Martha Stewart

64. Personalized Blend Coffee

2006-12-22T09:28:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

label

INSTRUCTIONS:

Mix one or two teaspoons of cinnamon or nutmeg into a pound of freshly ground coffee beans; or scrape the seeds from four vanilla beans with a paring knife, and add them to a pound of coffee. For the best flavor, use a medium-bodied coffee, such as one from Kenya or Colombia. Scoop into a coffee bag with a coated lining, available at kitchen-supply stores. Finish with a ribbon and a decorative sticker.

Source: MarthaStewart.com

Clip-on Measuring spoon

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

have yourself the early morning fumble for a measuring spoon by clipping one to your sack of dark roast. This makes a lovely housewarming gift as well. Simply use multipurpose adhesive (one intended for metal-to-metal applications) to affix an inexpensive tie clip to a metal measuring spoon. Be sure to hand-wash the spoon to prevent glue from dissolving.

Resource: Martha Stewart

Holiday Inspirations: Enjoy the Holiday Season With These 40 Easy Ideas for Recipes, Gifts, and Decorations
	Lift the little snap--part of its cover design--and you'll find idea cards with a durable finish and beautiful photography. This book is the perfect price of mini gifts or stocking stuffers. was $12.95 now $10.36 \| Buy Now

63. Lotion Bar

2006-12-21T23:11:00.000-07:00

Easy Lotion Bar

Melt the beeswax and cocoa butter in a glass container in the microwave, or a clean pot on the stove.
When it is completely melted remove from heat and add the almond oil.
Then add your fragrance and/or coloring.
Pour into your mold (this can be deodorant tubes, soap molds, ice cube trays, muffin tins, etc) and let set up completely.

Extra Rich Lotion Bar

Melt beeswax on low heat.
When melted add the mango butter.
Remove from heat when mango is almost melted.
Add the other oils, and mix together. Add your fragrance, and/or coloring.
Pour into your mold and let set completely.

Resource: make-stuff.com

62. Hand Warmers

2006-12-21T17:36:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cut out two 3-by-5-inch rectangles.
Sew together on three sides, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance; cut off corners. Turn bag right side out;
fill with 1/2 cup pie weights.
Blanket-stitch all sides with embroidery floss.
Vary the volume of weights to produce warmers that fit the hands of everyone in your family.

Source: MarthaStewart.com

61. Solid Perfume

2006-12-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

This is an inexpensive and easy way to create a personalized scent for a nifty gift.

The only ingredient that can get expensive is the essential oils, especially if you make a complex scent blend requiring an initial investment of many different essentials. Of course, there's nothing wrong with picking a single pleasant scent. One bottle of an essential oil will make lots and lots of perfume; you use only drops at a time!

MATERIALS:

INSTRUCTIONS:

Put about an inch of water in a small saucepan, then put a small glass jar or pyrex bowl in the water. Measure out the wax and almond oil into the jar/bowl and bring the water around it to a boil.

The wax will melt gradually; when it is 100% liquid, remove from heat and stir in the other ingredients with a straw (the wax will start to form solid on whatever you do your stirring with — a straw has little surface area so you lose less of the end product, and it's disposable so you don't have to clean it off). When everything is thoroughly mixed together, pour the liquid wax immediately into your final container. In about 30 minutes, it will be cooled, solid and ready to use.
To use the perfume, simply rub a finger around on the surface of the waxy perfume, then rub that finger on the area you want to smell good — the inside of your wrists and behind the ears works well.

combine drops of various essentials, totalling 8 -15 drops in all
pick a primary scent and use more of that one, then one or two "background" scents, using less of each
check out various aromatherapy sites for info on the psychological properties of various scents

Some nice essentials for background scents are:

clary sage (a slightly smoky herbal scent that's supposed to help creativity and concentration)
orange or ginger provide a warming sensation (good for people who are always cold)
ylang-ylang is a floral that isn't too sweet or girly for guys, but it's a happy smell and subtle enough for a backdrop
cedar (repels insects)

Scent Recipes (and purported aromatherapy effects):

For Men:
For Women:

Source: Instructables.com

60. Japanese Bound Handmade Books

2006-12-20T12:32:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

INSTRUCTIONS:

Stack your paper, with the covers on the top and bottom of the stack, just as you would like your book to appear.
Using a ruler, draw a line from top to bottom of the front cover, about 1/4"from the spine. Make two marks on this line, one 1/4' down from the top of the book, the other 1/4" up from the bottom. Now divide the distance between these marks into thirds and mark the two middle points.
Even up the pages and clamp the book together with binder clips, or weight down the front edge to keep the pages from moving. Protect your work surface with a piece of scrap wood or an old phone book as you punch a hole at each of the marked points using the awl.

(note: you can also use this technique to repair books that have loose bindings. Making these holes should not damage the text in the book. Most paperback books have an inner margin of 1/2" to 3/4", leaving plenty of room for rebinding.)
Thread the needle and tie the ends together with an overhand knot. Open the book a few pages and, next to the lower middle hole, push the needle through about five pages. Pull the thread through until the knot is snug against the pages. Go back out to the front cover by pushing the needle up through the awl hole. This step anchors the thread.
Now sew the rest of the book as shown in the accompanying illustrations. Pull the thread tight each time you go through a hole.

Go around the back and back up through the starting hole, then down through the other middle hole. Pull the thread tight after going through each hole.

Around the back again, then up through the top hole.

Around the back, then...

...around the top of the spine and up through the top hole again. Keep going, down through one middle hole, back up through the next, and down through the bottom hole. Keep the thread tight.

Around the back again and...

...around the bottom of the spine and back through the bottom hole. Go up through the starting hole again.

To finish, tie off the thread so the binding won't come loose. Do this by slipping the needle under two of the top threads coming out of starting hole and back through the loop to form a tight knot.

Run the needle back down through the starting hole and cut the leftover thread flush with the back of the book.

Source: Sff.net

The Essential Guide to Making Handmade Books: Gabrielle Fox

Maybe it's because the book as physical object seems threatened these days that people are becoming more interested in the art of making books by hand. And it's an art available to almost anyone--for many traditional types of handmade books no special skills are needed, and no materials are required that cannot be found in a good art supply store. Fox, who owns a bookbinding studio, presents 11 projects that even the complete beginner should not find too daunting.

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59. Vintage Paper Toys (ca. 1922)

2006-12-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

First published in the LA Times ca. 1922-23, these mechanical paper dolls are predictable in their kitsch and stereotypes, but still fun to put together:

Source: Barnacle Press

58. Easy Felt Eyeglass Case

2006-12-14T10:12:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

felted fleece

pattern

INSTRUCTIONS

Print out the eyeglass case pattern, making sure not to reduce the size when printing.
Using the eyeglass case pattern, cut out your piece of felt
Fold the felt in half, lining up all edges
blanket stitch the edges, sewing the side and bottom edges together, and leaving the top open:

BLANKET STITCH INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Stitch the thread into the layers of felt so that it can't be seen.
2. Push the needle out of the felt and below the edge of the eyeglass case on the outside.
3. Bring the thread up and around the cut edge to the opposite side and push the needle in.
4. Push the needle straight up toward the top edge and through the middle of the thread.
5. Move the needle over however wide you want your stitches to be and push the needle straight down into the top edge and back out the outside 1/2 inch down. Reapeat steps 3-5 until you have the complete edge stitched in the blanket stitch.

Source: Owning-Alpaca.com

57. Gifts for Bird Lovers: Embroidered Birds

2006-12-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

Use these bird embroidery patterns from MarthaStewart.com to embroider tea towels, eye-glass cases, pillows, or other linens.

56. Gifts for Bird Lovers: Soda Bottle Bird Feeder

2006-12-14T09:08:00.000-07:00

2 Liter Bird Feeder

Remove the label from your soda bottle, and rinse it with the cap in hot water to remove any stickiness.
When they are completely dry, drill two holes into the bottom of the bottle and thread wire or cord through the two holes to make a loop for hanging the feeder. Make sure you cover the holes with duct tape or fill them with clear caulk (or hot glue) to ensure no water can get inside.
Turn the bottle upside down (the cap will be at the bottom).
Drill two holes on opposite sides of the bottle, making sure that they are no larger than the thickness of the dowel you have.
Slip the dowel through the bottle for an instant perch.
Drill holes 1 to 2 inches (2.6 or 5.6 centimeters) higher than the perches, so the birds can easily access the holes — but don't make the holes too big, or the birdseed will fall out.
Hint: Fill the bottle with water and freeze it over night - this will make drilling the holes much easier.

Seed:

Resource: Microsoft Magazine

Combine this with a bird watching guide, and a bag of bird seed for a wonderful present.

The Audubon Backyard Birdwatcher: Birdfeeders and Bird Gardens

Discover how to create a backyard bird sanctuary with the expert guidance of the National Audubon Society. Your backyard will come alive by applying these feeding and gardening techniques. Includes a photographic guide to the birds of North America, as well as the trees and plants that attract them. The ultimate resource for anyone interested in creating a bird-friendly habitat.

only $19.98 | Buy Now

55. Dog Treats | Gifts for Pet Lovers

2006-12-13T22:40:00.000-07:00

PEANUT BUTTER BONES

PEANUT BUTTER 'N HONEY OAT CRUNCHIES
Corn, Wheat, & Yeast Free

Source: Two Dog Press

54. Origami Ornaments

2006-12-10T22:37:00.000-07:00

Photo by afotographie.

MATERIAL:

You can print your own here

INSTRUCTIONS:

Click here to learn how to fold a paper Crane (PDF).
Once folded, pierce a small hole through the crane's back and thread your string through it, tie the ends together to form a loop.

The crane is a symbol of:

Happiness and good omen
Long Life
Fidelity
Peace

53. Bottle Cap Magnets

2006-12-09T18:10:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

DIRECTIONS:

Cut your image(s) to fit inside the bottle cap.
Using the white glue, adhere image to the inside of cap - make sure the image is smooth and there are no air bubbles or wrinkles
place a little glue on top of the image, smooth, and let dry
Cover image with EnviroTex, or varnish and let cure for 24 hours (make sure you follow the directions on the label).
Using the glue gun, attach the magnet to the bottle cap

* You can also drill a small hole in the top of the magnet & attach a small O-ring for a cord (to make a necklace) or a key chain

Resources: AZOnline, Bella Online

52. Mini Herb Kits

2006-12-08T17:12:00.000-07:00

MATERIAL

INSTRUCTIONS

Paint the pots if you like or you can take a permanent marker and write the name of the herb around the rim.
Fill mini paper, or clear candy bags with enough potting soil to fill all the pots in the kit.
Decorate coin envelopes, fill with assorted seeds, seal, then label.
place ingredients into a decorated paper mache box. Old tins, recycled boxes, even old lunch boxes, would also make nice containers for the mini garden

resource: off beat living

The Herbal Kitchen: Cooking with Fragrance and Flavor
	The secret to transforming easy dishes into extraordinary meals? Fresh herbs. In The Herbal Kitchen, IACP award-winning cookbook author and acclaimed Herbfarm Restaurant chef Jerry Traunfeld presents simple dishes using herbs straight from the market, windowsill, or garden. was $34.95 now $23.07 \| Buy Now

51. Personalized Photo Book

2006-12-07T15:02:00.000-07:00

There are several online services that allow you to upload your photos and create a professionally printed custom photo book:

Qoop: If you're a Flickr user, this is an easy one because it automatically retrieve's your photos from Flickr. You decide if you want double sided pages (12.99 + 0.40 each add'l page) or single sided pages (11.99 + 0.35 each add'l page), you choose the layout, titles, etc.

iLife: If you're a mac user, you can upload your photos from iPhoto, choosing various templates, titles, etc. Books range from 9.99 to 29.99 depending on their size and style of cover.

Picaboo: For Windows users. Download the free software and create your own layout. You can choose your size, style, and book cover. Books range from 9.99 to 39.99.

50. Personalized Tote

2006-12-06T14:15:00.000-07:00

Start with a plain canvas bag from a crafts store, and approach it just as you would (suitably enough) a blank canvas. Do you want to add a modern design? Pretty labels? Handy pockets? The ideas here are just a beginning.

IRON IT ON
Tools and Materials

Iron-On How-To

(remember, when copying these onto transfer paper, mirror the image)

Books Template

Knitting Template

ADD POCKETS
Tools and Materials

Pockets How-To

Begin by removing existing handles with a seam ripper.
Make outer pockets: Cut two pieces of fabric 6 inches narrower than width of bag. Cut one of these pieces 2 inches shorter than height of bag. Cut remaining piece 5 inches shorter. Fold over top 1/4 inch of each; hem. Stack small piece onto large piece, aligning at bottom. Center on bag; glue or pin into place. Machine-stitch bottom. For handles, cut two pieces of 1 1/4-inch-wide twill tape twice the height of bag plus 20 inches. Attach with glue or pins, covering sides of pocket. Attach other handle. Stitch along both sides of each tape. Reinforce handles at top and bottom of bag.
Make inner pockets: Cut off apron top. Glue or pin lower portion in place. Fold over top edge by 1/4 inch; stitch into place.

Source: Martha Stewart

49. Felt Sewing Book

2006-12-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

Sewing kit items

INSTRUCTIONS

To make the cover, cut a piece of heavy felt into a 5-by-7 1/2-inch rectangle. Sew a button halfway up one short end, 1/4 inch in from edge. Make the tab closure by cutting a 1 1/2-by 2-inch strip of heavy felt, rounding it at one end. Sew the straight end of the tab to the end of the cover opposite the button, halfway up the cover and 1/8 inch in from the edge; make a slit in the rounded end of tab to serve as a buttonhole.
For the pages, cut three 4 3/4-by-7 1/4-inch pieces of lightweight felt. Fold each page in half, and iron along the crease. Open the cover, and center the opened pages on top. Close book, and use a blanket stitch to bind cover with pages, 1/2 inch in from folded edge.
To make the blanket-stitch binding, you’ll need an upholstery needle and embroidery floss. Hold the book in your lap with the fold at your waist, and start in the left-hand corner: Draw floss out through the fold from inside the book. Insert needle down into fabric, 1/2 inch up from fold, 3/8 inch in from edge; bring it out at the edge, as shown, keeping the floss loop under the needle. (See illustration below.) Continue stitching, working from left to right, until book is bound.

Source: Martha Stewart

48. Backpack

2006-12-05T22:35:00.000-07:00

This is essentially a fabric box with a lid-flap closure & straps. It looks difficult but is deceivingly easy. Even easier, they suggest using an old wool blanket, "for that rustic look."

The PDF'd Pattern and Instructions can be downloaded here.

Source: Clotildes Sewing Savvy

47. Wallpaper Crafts

2006-12-04T17:57:00.000-07:00

WALLPAPER BOOKMARKS

Cut wallpaper into strips measuring approx. 1 1/2" x 6"
place in laminating pouches, laminate
trim bookmarks, leaving about 1/4" around sides and bottom, and 1/2" at top
punch hole at top and thread with ribbon.

WALLPAPER MAGNETS

Cut wallpaper to desired size and shape
adhere to magnets
package magnets in sets to give as gifts

WALLPAPER COASTERS

Cut Wallpaper in 4" x 4" squares. if you like, round the corners off
place into lamination pouches and run through the laminator
trim lamination, leaving at least a 1/4" border
bundle into sets of 4 or 6, tie off with a ribbon or make a paper sleeve (see above)

Source: Tony Meredith

46. Alternative gift ideas for the tragically hip among us

2006-12-04T15:29:00.000-07:00

DUCT TAPE WALLET

Using a dollar bill as a measuring tool, cut two strips of duct tape slightly larger than your bill.
Join the two strips along the long edge, overlapping them by 1/2 inch.
Flip the the first strips over and tape the back side, making sure to overlap the outer edges by 1/2 inch.
Flip it over again and trim the corners at a 45 degree angle.
Fold the 1/2 inch overlap over to make sealed edges.
Make a second sheet, this time slightly smaller than the first (but still larger than your dollar bill).
- seal the top edge, but use the bottom and side overlaps to seal this sheet to your first (this makes a pocket & your basic wallet structure)
To add ID or credit card pockets, you'll make a sheet (just like we did above) that is the same length as your wallet, but about half as tall (you will probably only need one strip of duct tape for each side of the pocket)

The Duct Tape Guys

Source: The Duct Tape Guys

JUICE POUCH COIN PURSE

Carefully cut the sides, top, & bottom of the drink pouch, so that the front and back are now two separate pieces. If you like, with the scissors, go ahead and round the edges of the top and bottom (see picture above)
rinse with water, making sure the pouch pieces are clean, and pat or air dry.
Fold each of your pouch pieces into thirds. One will be the front of your purse, the other will be the back, with the velcroed flap.
For the front of your purse: keeping the top third folded back, unfold the bottom third, so you now have two-thirds of the pouch showing.
With your sewing machine, stitch the top (folded) edge
Sandwich the two pieces together, right sides out, and stitch around the edges using a zig-zag pattern. (you may need to tape the pieces together to make sure they don't slip while you're sewing. If you like, fold the finishing tape around the edges before you begin stitching, to give it a more finished look
Attach the velcro on the underside of the flap, and on the front of the purse.

PULP FICTION COIN PURSE

The cheesier the cover, the better. Paperbacks come in a variety of sizes, but look for one that is at least 7" high and 4" across.

check your fabric store around the velcro and other closures.

Remove the cover from the book.
Cut your book cover, paper, and vinyl so that each measures 7" by 4"
Find the middle of the book cover and mark it with a horizontal line.
From the top, measure one inch down and make another horizontal line.
Do the same for the bottom.
Now fold along the lines you made.
Place the vinyl over the book cover, lining up the edges. Use paper clips to hold them together as you attach the snaps.
Using the same measurements as Steps 3-6, mark three horizontal lines on your paper and fold.
Getting out your paper clips again, place the paper lining on top of the book cover, fold over the edges, make sure it is all even, and clip the folded edges in place.
Make sure the paper clips are not in the way of your needle before you start sewing. By sewing the edges together you
are attaching the lining to the book cover and forming the pockets by way of the folded edges.

Sew as close to the edge as you can.

You may choose to use a contrasting color of thread of decorative stitches.

Source: Eat Your Heart Out Martha

IPOD NANO CASE

iPod Nano Pattern

You can use any material to make the cover:
cereal boxes | paper board
duct tape
fabric | felt
vinyl...

Print out the iPod Nano Pattern
Use it to cut out the pattern on whatever material you're using. If using duct tape, place tape directly on the back of the pattern and trim.
If you would like a protective window over your iPod Screen, place clear packing tape on both sides of the window opening.
Fold along the dotted lines, & glue or tape the flaps in place.

Source: Sneakmove.com

45. Custom Recipe Cards

2006-12-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Click Here to get started

tip: if you want to make them "spill proof" you can laminate them with self-adhesive laminate sheets

If you just want to give blank recipe cards, here are some fun ones:

RETRO RECIPE CARDS - Black and White designs (PDF)

Source: Craftster.org

COUNTRY THEMED RECIPE CARDS

MS Word | Acrobat Templates

44. Paper Kits

2006-12-02T18:49:00.000-07:00

You can print these kits out and give them to your favorite crafter to assemble:

3-D PAPER CREATURES:

Ankylosaurus Kit

Dragonfly Kit

Tyrannosaurus Rex Kit

SCIENCE

Sun Dial Kit

How an Eclipse Works Kit

ARCHITECTURE

Notre Dame de Paris Kit

Big Ben Kit

Syndey Opera House Kit

Roman Colosseum Kit

more buildings...

Resources: Canon and Hp.com

43. Mixes

2006-12-01T16:50:00.000-07:00

COCOA MIX

Measure all of the ingredients into a mixing bowl and whisk them until they are evenly blended.
Store the mix in a tightly covered container at room temperature until you're ready to package it. Makes about 4 cups of mix.

The secret ingredient in this mix is the mini chocolate chips, which melt when combined with the boiling water and give the cocoa an extra-rich flavor. The recipe makes enough for four gift-size portions, each of which can be measured into a small plastic bag and tucked into a cup or mug filled with mini marshmallows, candy stick stirrers, and a spoon. Wrap each filled gift cup in cellophane and don't forget to include a tag with a list of the ingredients.
Source: FamilyFun.com

PANCAKE MIX

Measure the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt into the bowl of a large food processor.
Process for 15 to 30 seconds or until thoroughly mixed. (Alternatively, stir the ingredients together in a bowl.)
Spoon the mix into a 2-quart jar.
Affix a label on the front of the jar that says "Pancake Mix."
Affix a second label on the back of the jar with the pancake directions:
Stir 1 1/2 cups of pancake mix, 2 eggs, and 1 1/4 cups of milk in a mixing bowl until smooth. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook the pancakes for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Enjoy with maple syrup. Serves 4.
To present the gift, tie a bow around the jar. Makes 1 mix.

Source: FamilyFun.com

CRUNCHY GRANOLA

Heat the oven to 300º. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the oats, wheat germ, nuts, sesame seeds, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Make a well in the dry ingredients and add the oil, honey, and water. Toss the mixture until the ingredients are well combined, then spread it evenly on a cookie sheet.
Bake the granola for 40 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring every 10 minutes to keep the mixture from sticking. Let it cool completely, then stir in the cranberries or dried fruit. Makes about 7 cups.

Source: FamilyFun.com

THE BEST SCONES YOU'LL EVER HAVE

Measure and mix ingredients
spoon into a jar or cellophane bag
Make a tag with a list of ingredients & baking instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet. In a small bowl, blend scone mix with 1 cup butter cut into pieces. Mix in 1 cup sour cream, and 1 egg until just moistened. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead briefly. Roll or pat dough into a 3/4 inch thick round. Cut into 12 wedges, and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake 12 to 15 minutes in the preheated oven, until golden brown on the bottom.

Source: AllRecipes.com

42. Magnets

2006-11-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

FOR THE GARDENER

print out downloadable artwork from HP.com
trim the images out, leaving 1/4 inch boarder
peal off adhesive backing from magnetic sheet & adhere the trimmed images to the sheet
trim magnetic sheet to size
if you like, seal the image with sticky-back sheet laminate.

FOR THE WORDSMITH
You can create your own magnetic poetry

write or print out a list of words
adhere the list to the magnetic sheet
cut the words/magnet to size

FOR THE FISHING ENTHUSIAST

print out downloadable artwork from HP.com and follow instructions.

FOR THE COMIC BOOK AFICIONADO

print out the downloadable art:
- Icons & words (PDF)
- Balloons (PDF)
- Frames (PDF)
- Scenes (PDF)
Adhere prints to magnetic sheet & cut out

41. Fabulously Funky Coasters

2006-11-29T23:12:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

Downloadable Art

INSTRUCTIONS

Go to the File menu and select Print. Load the cardstock into the printer, following the printer's directions. Print the coaster sheet.
Cut out the coasters.
Glue each coaster to a piece of cork backing using craft glue.
Let the coasters dry, then spray each one with a paper protectant.

You can also design your own coasters.
Print the images in color, trim around the edges, laminate or coat them to protect from spills, and add a cork bottom.

Source: Microsoft.com

40. Photo Calendar

2006-11-29T19:24:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

Downloadable art

INSTRUCTIONS

Follow the instructions provided by HP to insert your own photo, if you like.
download and print calendar pages.

Other Calendar Designs

Source: HP.com

39. Wheat Grass

2006-11-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Fill the container with potting soil, leaving a good amount of space at the top (at least three inches). As the grass grows, it will push up dirt. If you don’t leave enough space, dirt will fall out of the container onto your table top!
Put a layer of wheat grass seed on top of the soil. Use a generous amount in a single layer over the potting soil. Cover the seeds with a bit of potting soil. You don’t need too much soil, just enough to cover the seeds.
Repeat step 2, making a second layer of grass seed and soil.
Water well and keep the soil moist. Wheat grass will grow best in a bright room.

Tips & Techniqes

Wheat grass grows very fast. In less than a week you’ll have about an inch of grass. Millet grows slower.
Keep the soil moist but not wet. If you plant wheat grass in a container with no drainage (such as glass), we recommend misting the grass rather than watering.
Depending on how much sun your arrangement gets, they will last from 5 to 10 weeks. Since they grow so quickly, just replant your pots and you’ll have new arrangements in no time.
Cats love wheat grass! It aids their digestive systems and is often prescribed by veterinarians.
Wheat grass is sold in health food stores for juicing.

Source: Craft Warehouse

38. Flavored Vinegars

2006-11-27T17:17:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

Resources: about.com, FabulousFoods.com

Flavored Vinegars: 50 Recipes for Cooking with Infused Vinegars

From classic balsamic and red wine vinegars to innovative elixirs infused with fruit, savory, and herbal essences, flavored vinegars are as perfect for gift-giving as they are for enlivening favorite dishes. In Flavored Vinegars --an enticing companion volume to the best-selling Flavored Oils --acclaimed chef Michael Chiarello proves once again that great food can be pure simplicity: it's as easy as drizzling a few drops of balsamic vinegar on a ripe slice of melon or brushing mango vinegar on fish as it goes to the grill.

$10.36 | Buy Now

37. Fleece Hat

2006-11-25T18:47:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Measure the circumference of your head (around your ears). If you’re making the hat as a gift for someone and don’t know his or her size, use our size chart below. You’ll need four fabric panels, two of each color. To determine the width of the panels, divide the head circumference by four, and add 1/4 inch on each side for seam allowance. The length for an adult hat should be about 13 inches; for a child’s hat, about 10 inches. Cut out the panels.
Pin the right sides of the long ends of the panels together, alternating the colors. Sew panels together, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Sew the end panels, right sides together to form a tube.
Trim seam allowance closely. Use your fingers to open the seams; do not use an iron to press them, or the fabric could melt.
Flatten the hat, right sides together, so that two panels lay directly on top of the other two panels. Match up the center seams.
To make the hat’s cuff, fold fabric up about 3 inches; fold in again 1/4 inch. Sew hem close to the turned edge. Turn hat right side out.
Pin along the top of the hat and sew, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Trim seam.
Join the two corners of the top of the hat together with a single stitch. Using strong thread, bring the needle through the inside of one corner and down through the other. Pull thread tight so the corners meet at the center. Tie off the thread.

You’ll need one panel of fabric to make this hat. To determine the width of the panel, measure the circumference of your head (around your ears), or use our size chart below; add 1/4 inch on each side for seam allowance. The length for an adult hat should be about 13 inches; for a child’s hat, about 10 inches. Cut out the panel.
Sew the long ends, right sides together, to form a tube.
Trim seam allowance closely. Use your fingers to open the seams; do not use an iron to press them, or the fabric could melt.
To make the hat’s cuff, fold fabric up about 3 inches; fold in again 1/4 inch. Sew hem close to the turned edge. Turn hat right side out.
Sew along the top of the hat, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Trim seam.
Join the two corners of the top of the hat together with a single stitch. Using strong thread, bring the needle through the inside of one corner and through the other point. Pull thread tight so the corners meet at the center. Tie off the thread.

Follow the instructions for the solid-color hat, but combine horizontal bands of different-colored fleece to equal the correct height (about 13 inches for adults and 10 inches for children). Use as many bands as you like in any width; allow 1/4 inch for seam allowance on the top and bottom of each band, and 3 inches to the bottom band for the hat’s cuff.

Follow steps 1 to 4 for the vertical-stripe hat above.
Measure the crown of your head (ear to ear as if for earmuffs) or use our chart below. Place one end of a soft tape measure at the bottom left corner of the hat, extend tape measure to the right corner of the hat, the distance equal to your crown measurement (for example, 14 inches if your crown measurement equals that). Hold both points of the tape measure in place, and arch the excess in between. Pin on the center seam, 3 inches above the highest point of the arc; that is your “low point.”
Mark the side seams 1 1/2 inches higher than the low point for a child’s hat, 2 inches higher for an adult’s. Connect the high points and low point with a marker, making a V. Sew along the V, making sure center seams match up. Trim seams, turn right side out, and shape points. Attach small pom-poms to each point (pom-pom instructions below).

For a large pom-pom, cut a strip of fleece 24 inches in length (9 to 12 inches for a smaller pom-pom) and as wide as you would like the pom-pom to be, (our pom-pom for an adult hat is 4 inches wide). Fold the strip in half widthwise.
Lightly draw a line down the center of the fabric lengthwise. Cut fringes to the left and right of the line, leaving about 1/4 inch uncut in the center. The fringes can be as narrow or as wide as you like.
Roll up strip of fabric.
Using strong thread such as upholstery thread, bring the needle through the core of the pom-pom, and wrap the thread tightly around the center a few times. Bring needle through the core again, and tie a knot as close to the pom-pom as possible. Use the excess thread to sew the pom-pom to the top of the hat.

AVERAGE HEAD SIZES

Newborn (6 months and younger)

Infant (6 to 12 months)

Child (12 months to 3 years)

Child (3 years and older)

Adult Woman

Adult Man

Source: MarthaStewart.com

36. Vintage Seed Packets

2006-11-23T09:27:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Print on HP photo paper or other stiff paper.
Cut out packets along lines.
Glue where indicated. Let dry.
Drop seeds in packet and secure top flap.

Fill the packets with your favorite seeds either from your garden, or from the store.

Source HP.com

35. Chef or Gardener's Aprons

2006-11-23T09:05:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Wash, dry, and iron Apron.
print out one of the Iron-on images onto the iron-transfer paper (the image is set up to print backwards already)
place your Apron on the Ironing board, and lay the transfer, image side down, over the apron where you want it to appear.
follow the instructions for the Iron-on transfer paper.

If the Apron has pockets, why not fill them with a dish towel & some wooden spoons for your cook, or gardening gloves, seed packets, and tools for your gardener.

Source HP.com

34. Felted Wool Mittens

2006-11-21T16:10:00.000-07:00

Photo by londonne.

Felting wool means shrinking it—on purpose! While results will vary from one type of wool to another, most will shrink quite dramatically and take on a tighterfeeling, felt-like finish. The key is, you must use 100% WOOL fabric. Grab a few old all-wool sweaters from your closet or a second-hand store—the kind with holes in the elbows, or stretched out edges. With just a little effort, you can transform an "undesirable" into a pair of funky (and functional!) mittens. Here's how.

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Before You Sew:

Ready, Set, Sew:

Source: SYSF

33. Cheery Chemo Cap

2006-11-21T14:59:00.000-07:00

Learn To Knit

SKILL LEVEL: Beginner

SIZE: Small, Large

MATERIALS

GAUGE:

10 stitches + 12 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch (straight needles: knit on right side, purl on wrong side) (double-pointed needles: knit every round). BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE.

Double-Pointed Needle Hat

Straight needle Hat

Download Instructions

Source: Lionbrand Yarn

32. Carousel Knit Cap

2006-11-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

Learn to Knit

CAROUSEL HAT

SKILL LEVEL: Easy

MATERIALS

SIZE: Small, Medium, Large

GAUGE:

18 stitches + 36 rows = 4" (10 cm) over garter stitch (knit every row). BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE.

NOTES:

HAT

With A, cast on 85 (89, 93) stitches.
Brim

Knit 1 row and mark as wrong side. Continue in garter stitch and Stripe Pattern 1 as follows: *Work 2 rows each using B, C, D, and A; repeat from * once more. Cut all colors except A.

Body

Knit 5 (7, 9) more rows using A. Note What was the wrong side of the brim is now the right side of body. Continue in garter stitch and work Stripe Pattern 2 as follows: 2 rows B, 2 rows A, 6 rows B, 2 rows C, 2 rows B, 6 rows C, 2 rows D, 2 rows C, 6 rows D, 2 rows A, 2 rows D and 6 rows A.

Crown Shaping

Finishing

Position hat so the right side of brim is facing and the cast-on edge is at the top. With crochet hook, join A with a slip stitch in the back seam, *chain 4 for trim, work 4 half double crochet in the 2nd chain from hook, slip stitch in the next 2 chain, then slip stitch in the same stitch as the slip stitch at the base of trim, slip stitch in the next 3 stitches of the cast-on edge; repeat from * around. Join round with a slip stitch in the first slip stitch. Fasten off. Weave in ends.

Download Instructions

Source: Lion Brand Yarn

STITCH 'N BITCH The Knitter's Handbook

In Stitch 'n Bitch, Debbie Stoller-founder of the first Stitch 'n Bitch knitting group in New York City-covers every aspect of knitting and the knitting-together lifestyle: the how-to, the when-to, the what-to, the why-to. Writing with wit and attitude (The Knitty-Gritty, Blocking for Blockheads), she explains the different types of needles and yarns (and sheep, too) and all the techniques from basic to fancy, knit to purl to cast-off.

$11.16 | Buy Now

31. Bookplates

2006-11-20T12:44:00.000-07:00

There are several sources that will allow you to print your own bookplates:

For the Child in all of us, there's Bookplates from My Home Library.
HP's collection of:
- Celtic bookplates and bookmarks.
- Northwest Native American bookplates and bookmarks.
The Book Hive's illustrated bookplates.

30. Button Clock

2006-11-20T10:57:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Poke a hole through the center of the lid with an awl. Using a nail set, widen the hole to accommodate the shaft.
Refer to the dial template to position the button hour markers. Affix buttons with multipurpose cement. To assemble mechanism, follow manufacturer’s instructions.

Source MarthaStewart.com

MARTHA STEWART LIVING MAGAZINE
	Even if you will never make a "gourd candle" or a "Fortuny-inspired tablecloth," Martha Stewart Living can't be beat for its wealth of ideas concerning what Martha calls "good things." $28.00 \| Buy Now

29. Fortune Cookies

2006-11-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

INGREDIENTS

fortunes

printed

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Butter a cookie sheet. Write fortunes on strips of paper about 4 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. Generously grease 2 cookie sheets.
Mix the egg white and vanilla until foamy but not stiff. Sift the flour, salt, and sugar and blend into the egg white mixture.
Place teaspoonfuls of the batter at least 4 inches apart on one of the prepared cookie sheets. Tilt the sheet to move the batter into round shapes about 3 inches in diameter. Be careful to make batter as round and even as possible. Do not make too many, because the cookie have to be really hot to form them and once they cool it is too late. Start with 2 or 3 to a sheet and see how many you can do.
Bake for 5 minutes or until cookie has turned a golden color 1/2 inch wide around the outer edge of the circle. The center will remain pale. While one sheet is baking, prepare the other.
Remove from oven and quickly move cookie with a wide spatula and place upside down on a wooden board. Quickly place the fortune on the cookie, close to the middle and fold the cookie in half. Place the folded edge across the rim of a measuring cup and pull the pointed edges down, one on the inside of the cup and one on the outside. Place folded cookies into the cups of a muffin tin or egg carton to hold their shape until firm.

Once you've made the cookies, place as many as you like into a glass jar, seal it, and affix your handmade label on the front.

Sources Allrecipes.com and HP.com

28. "Little Treasures" Gift Box

2006-11-18T20:17:00.000-07:00

MATERIAL

INSTRUCTIONS

Select 2 fabrics, 1 for the outside of your box and 1 for the lining, and cut an 8" x 8" square of each. You can use fabrics that you have altered with paint or dye, or select commercial fabrics.
Cut two 8" x 8" squares of fusible web and one 8" x 8" piece of Pellon.
Make a sandwich of the 5 pieces: first, put down the lining fabric, wrong side up, then add a piece of fusible web, then the Pellon, another piece of fusible web, and finally the fabric for the outside of your box, right-side up.
Place a piece of parchment paper or a Teflon sheet on your ironing board to protect it from the fusible web, put the fabric sandwich on top of it, and place another sheet of parchment on top of the sandwich to protect your iron. Following the directions for the fusible web, iron your fabric sandwich until all layers adhere. You will probably need to press one side and then flip the fabric sandwich over and press the other side.
Trace the pattern of the box onto the dull side of the freezer paper and cut it out.
Iron the freezer paper pattern (shiny side down) onto the fabric sandwich and cut out your box. Cut carefully - this step will make the difference between an elegant piece of art and a misshapen little box. (An 18mm rotary cutter may be helpful to cut the sides of each slit and embroidery scissors to cut the ends of the slits.)
Sew close to all of the raw edges, including the slits. (I found that a straight stitch caused less fraying than a zigzag stitch.)
Put Fray Check on the raw edges of the "knobs" at the top of the box because they get a lot of use and tend to fray.
If desired, use a foam brush to paint the edges of the box with fabric paint to cover any white from the Pellon or fusible web that may show. Using a metallic bronze, gold, or copper acrylic paint will give your box a "gilded" look.
Embellish, as desired. Create designs and interest with piping, bobbin work, Swarovski crystals, beads, braid, sequins, glitter paint, and more. Remember that whatever you sew on the front will show up on the lining.
To construct the box, pull the 2 swirl-shaped petals together. Holding them with one hand, bring one of the petals with a slit up and over the top of the swirl petals. Last, bring the other slit petal up and over the other three petals.

Source Quilting Arts Magazine

QUILTING ARTS MAGAZINE
	Quilting Arts covers the latest techniques in art quilting, embellished quilting, wearable arts, mixed media, surface design, and other textile arts. Published quarterly, Quilting Arts features guest artists and teachers, and addresses a wide range of skills including surface embroidery, thread painting, stamping, beading, silk ribbon embroidery, and fabric painting. $24.95 \| Buy Now

27. Tea Gift Basket

2006-11-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

If you have a friend that enjoys tea, this is a fun and easy gift to assemble:

MATERIALS

(these are prolific at thrift stores, and usually fairly inexpensive - the saucers are optional)

(you don't have to include the entire box of tea)

Marilyn Scott Waters

Red & Blue

Pink & Green

INSTRUCTIONS

print the Tea Bag envelopes, cut them out and assemble
insert tea bags into envelopes & place in tea cups
assemble everything in the basket
place basket on unrolled cellophane
cut a piece of cellophane large enough to gather around the basket
tie raffia or ribbon around the top of the cellophane.

note: if you like you can assemble ingredients into the tea cups and wrap them with cellophane (& do without the basket)

TEA BISCUIT RECIPE

Preheat oven to 375º
Sift the first 4 ingredients together onto a piece of wax paper.
Make a well in the center with walls high enough to contain the liquid ingredients;
add eggs, oil, vanilla, and orange juice.
Knead dough very lightly for a few seconds on a lightly floured board.
Pat the dough gently and cut the dough with a floured cutter.
Place biscuits on a greased cookie sheet.
Bake at 375º F for 15-20 minutes. The tea biscuits should rise and be lightly brown in color.
When done, and still warm, sprinkle tops with sugar.

Recipe Source: Cooks.com

Gifts in a Jar: Cocoas, Cappuccinos, Coffees & Teas
	This book is filled with recipes to make your own gifts. Each mix fits into a quart jar. The book even includes tags complete with recipient directions with each recipe. Just cut it out, personalize and attach to the jar. Fun to make and affordable, gifts in a jar make great gifts for neighbors, teachers and friends! $9.00 \| Buy Now

26. Best Thought Cards

2006-11-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

Here's a collection of printable cards from Marilyn Scott Waters - created to encourage friends. They're primarily aimed at women/moms, but there is a set of blank cards you can print out & make up your own encouragements.

Source: Marilyn Scott Waters

25. Handmade Christmas Ornaments

2006-11-17T14:59:00.000-07:00

There are a plethora of ways to create handmade ornaments, here are a couple of ideas.

Wired Star Ornament:

To make an ornament like the one here, wrap one end of a 3-foot length of 18-gauge gold-colored craft wire around a pencil to form a hanging loop. With the loop at the top of a star cookie cutter, press the wire twice around the perimeter of the cookie cutter to form a star shape, twisting it around the hanging loop and using wire cutters (a parent's job) to snip off any excess. Remove the cutter.
Complete the ornament by wrapping the wire outline with lengths of 20-to 24-gauge colored lightweight wire, securing the ends in place by wrapping them around the cookie cutter outline.
Finally, tie a hanging ribbon to the loop, and your ornament is ready for display.

Source: FamilyFun

Scandinavian Bird Ornament:

this

Project pages

Also available are instructions for a Paper Dreidel box, and tree topper

Old-Fashioned Christmas Favorites
	A Heart-Warming Collection of Treasured Recipes, Memories, Handmade Gifts, Cozy Decorating Tips & Easy How To's for the Joyous Days of Christmas $24.95 \| Buy Now

24. Handmade Wind Chimes

2006-11-16T12:36:00.000-07:00

Photo by matttorontocanada.

Wind chimes can be made out of almost any material. Whatever pleases the eye and makes a wonderful noise can be hung up and enjoyed! Glass wind chimes and metal wind chimes are particular favorites. Or, when creating your own wind chimes, try using some of these materials:

SILVERWARE CHIME

Preparing the Cutlery

Put on your safety goggles.
Drill a hole in each of the four spoon handles, approximately 1/8th of an inch from the top. Sand holes down with metal file, so that there are no sharp edges.
Choose one fork to be the hanging fork from which the spoons will be suspended. Drill a hole in the flat part of this fork, just above the tines.
Using your needle-nosed pliers, carefully bend the tines of the fork to a 90° angle.
Bend the two inside tines of the fork so that they are pointing north and south. Bend each of the two outside tines so that they are pointing east and west. Be sure to have backup forks, in case any of the tines break.
Using the tip of your pliers, carefully twist the ends of each of the tines into a loop.
Bend the handle of the fork over to make a hook to hang the chime with.
Drill a hole in your base fork. This hole should be about 1/8th of an inch from the top of the handle.

Hanging the Chime

Tie a piece of fishing line from the hole in the hanging fork to the hole in the base fork. The base fork should hang about six inches down.
Tie fishing line through each of the holes created by the tines of the hanging fork. Tie the other end of each piece of string to the hole in each spoon. The bowl of each spoon should hit the stem of the base fork.
Now you're ready to hang them

COPPER PIPE WIND CHIME

Cut six separate pipes from the copper tubing at the following lengths:
- 18 inches
- 20 inches
- 22 inches
- 24 inches
- 26 inches
- 28 inches
- To do this, you need to mark these measurements on the tubing and, using your metal crimper, cut the six pipes.
Wearing your goggles, drill a ¼ inch hole in the top of each pipe. This hole should be about a ½ inch from the top of each pipe.
Drill a ½ inch hole in the center of the large and small pieces of wood.
Drill six ¼ inch holes around the perimeter of the large piece of wood. These holes should be equidistant from one another. This piece of wood will act as the platform for the chimes.
Using your string, thread each pipe through each of the six holes on the large piece of wood. The pipes should hang a couple of inches from the base of the wood platform.
Using your nylon rope, create a loop from which to hang the chime. Thread the end of this loop through the center of the wood platform. To the base of this handle, tie the small piece of wood. The pipes will knock against this wood to create sound.
Hang and enjoy!

Reources: Repair Home and Al Carrell

Wind Toys That Spin, Sing, Twirl & Whirl
	Chimes, whirligigs, windsocks, banners, and windvanes--these 35 toys seem practically alive with sound and movement. Some can even be tuned! Made from fabric, metal, wood, glass, or clay, many are perfect for the beginning crafter. $29.44 \| Buy Now

23. Embroidered linens

2006-11-15T22:17:00.000-07:00

Photo by dnn_rchmnd.

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Set the iron temperature to high. Lay down your tea towel, Pillow case, etc. and place the transfer face down where you would like it to be. Make sure to leave enough room so you can attach the hoop.
Tape or hold the pattern firmly in place and glide the iron over the design. You need to do it only two or three times, pressing hard so a light trace of the design will appear. Don't make it too dark because you don't want it to show after you've embroidered it.
Peel off the transfer and save it for future use.
Attach the hoop around the design, so that the fabric is tight like a drum.
Thread the needle with a 12-inch strand of thread. Leave a 1-inch tail extending from the top of the needle and tie a knot at the other end.
Find your starting point and bring the needle up through the bottom of the design and out the top. Bring the needle back down. Continue the process until you've outlined the entire design, switching thread colors as desired.
When you finish, turn the piece over, snip the thread, tie it in a knot at the base of the fabric and snip excess. Iron the towel so it is crisp.

Source Kathy Cano-Murillo

If you like this...
Try Sublime Stitching: Hundreds of Hip Embroidery Patterns and How-To --from 11.46

22. Clay Pot (or Tin Can) Quickbreads

2006-11-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Wash clay pot (or can) with warm water only. towel dry. Cover drain hole w/ small piece of aluminum foil. Grease inside of pot & lip with butter, margarine, or oil.
Preheat oven 375 F. and bake according to the times below:
- cornbread for 45 min,
- all others 60 min. Use any quickbread recipe.
Spoon batter into Pot or Can, bake immediately.
bread is done when topcrust is lightly browned.

From RecipeTips.com:

Other Baking Containers: almost any other type of oven-safe and food-safe container can be used to bake bread, such as a stoneware baking dish or terra-cotta pots or even coffee cans as is the case when making Boston brown bread.

When using a terra-cotta flowerpot, it must be thoroughly dry. It is best to place it in a warm, sunny location for several hours. After drying, the pot should be well greased with cooking oil, placed in a 375ºF oven for about an hour, and then cooled. This process can be repeated several times until oil has thoroughly soaked the terra-cotta. The seasoned flowerpot should not be washed after use because washing will have an adverse effect on the seasoned surfaces - simply wipe the pot clean.

Also an option: Create a quick bread gift basket:

Clean Clay Pot
you can pre-season as suggested above, or enclose seasoning instructions

Quick Bread Mix
provide in original packaging, or buy a cellophane bag & empty the contents into it - provide a label telling what kind of quick bread it is

Dish Towel
Wooden mixing spoon
Baking Instructions

If you liked this...
Try The Best Quick Breads: 150 Recipes for Muffins, Scones, Shortcakes, Gingerbreads, Cornbreads, Coffeecakes, and More (Paperback) --from 7.20

21. Paperwhites

2006-11-14T15:11:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS
Paperwhites are best grown in a shallow pot or bowl with no drainage holes in the bottom. They can even be grown in mason jars filled with small stones.

Fill the pot 2/3 full with gravel, small stones, or even fun things like colored beads or marbles.
Place as many paperwhite bulbs as will fit on top of the gravel, with the pointed side up.
Then fill in gravel around the bulbs, leaving the top halves exposed.
Add water up to the base of the bulbs and maintain it at this level.
Place the pot in a cool area.
Within a few days, roots will appear. When green shoots appear, move the pot to a cool, sunny spot. Sit back and watch them grow and bloom.

If you liked this...

Park Seed's paperwhite kit

from 11.44

20. Tea Cup Lights

2006-11-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

In a small pan set over a larger pan of simmering water, melt down old candles; clip the thermometer to the upper pot, and keep temperature at about 185°. Remove old wicks with tongs.
Cut a piece of wicking to the cup’s height plus 2 inches. Clamp one end to a wick sustainer; tie the other end around a skewer. Dip wicking and sustainer into melted wax to coat them. Remove and stick sustainer to cup’s bottom.
Pour in the wax, stopping 1/2 inch below the cup’s rim. Allow wax to set, about 1 hour. The candle will harden with a well in the center. To even it out, use another skewer to prick a circle of holes about 1/16 inch deep around the wick. Pour in melted wax until surface is 1/4 inch below rim. Cut wick.

From Martha Stewart

19. Custom-Tailored Luminaries

2006-11-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

These charming candleholders illuminate any space with lovely pinpoints of light. And because they are "stitched" on a sewing machine, you can make multiples in a single sitting.

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Begin by stitching patterns onto sheets of card stock. Lightly trace a design or use one of MarthaStewart.com's templates onto the paper with a pencil. Stitch over the pencil marks. As the needle punctures the card stock (with or without thread) it creates tiny holes through which the candlelight will flicker.
Cut to size, and wrap around glass cylinders; secure with double-sided tape.

From Martha Stewart

If you liked this...

Martha's Homemade Holidays

used and new from $5.52

18. Tin Can luminary

2006-11-13T22:52:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Make sure the can is empty of its contents and cleaned
fill the can with water and put into the freezer to allow the water to freeze.
Once frozen, remove from freezer & tape a design (a star, a tree, etc) to the side of the can.
Take a large nail and hammer it at intervals along the lines of your design (with spaces in between).
Let the ice melt and drain the water from the can.
Once dry, put a candle inside and watch your design light up.

Source Family Education

17. Ice Cube Candles

2006-11-13T19:48:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Melt the candle wax &/or crayons. This is best done by filling one pot up with water and placing a second (thrift store) pot on top - like a double boiler. You won't want to use the same pot to melt your wax in that you'd normally cook food in.
Cut the carton to a desired height.
Cut the wick about 4 inches taller than your desired candle
Secure the wick in the carton, tying the top to a pencil or tongue depressor (so it won't fall into the carton)
fill the carton with ice cubes. The coarser|larger the cubes are, the larger the holes in the candle.
Make sure the wick is standing upright and pour the melted wax into the carton.
When wax is set (ice will have melted) remove the milk carton and you have a candle that kind of looks like swiss cheese. There may be some water that will drain out as you remove the carton.

Source FamilyEducation.com

If you liked this...

The Candlemaker's Companion

new and used from 9.80

16. Handmade Soap

2006-11-13T19:32:00.000-07:00

MATERIAL

(Lavender, rose and jasmine work well)

INSTRUCTIONS

Grate soap in a blender or food processor.
Boil a pot of water and put a glass bowl over the pot, (like a double boiler.)
Add some almond oil into the bowl.
Add the soap into the bowl.
Take the water from the pot and add it into the bowl until soap changes into paste.
Add oils, color, oats, and vitamin E as desired.
Let cool in molds of your choice. You can use anything for a mold - ice cube trays, cookie cutters or soap molds (found at the craft store.
Air out on wax paper for a day or two.

from kidzworld

If you liked this...

The Soapmaker's Companion

used and new from 7.98

15. Bath Bomb

2006-11-13T18:39:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS
Dry Ingredients

citric acid

Wet Ingredients

INSTRUCTIONS

Blend the citric acid and baking soda – this step is super important – if you don’t blend well, you end up with a grainy bomb. You may want to sift the ingredients together to ensure a smoother texture.
Once you’ve blended really well, add your colorant. Dry pigments work best – don’t add too much though
In a separate container, mix wet ingredients
Slowly drizzle the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring constantly to prevent a reaction from starting. Make sure you mix in all of the wet ingredients. The mixture will be somewhat crumbly.
Pack the mixture into your mold – wait a few minutes and tap them out. Let them air dry for 3 or 4 hours. The harder you pack the bath bombs, the more dense, heavy, and durable bomb you will get.

Sources: teach soap, Brenda Sharpe, and Not Martha

14. Sugar Scrub

2006-11-13T11:58:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

you can also use ground coffee (see note below)

INSTRUCTIONS

mix the sugar and oil in the plastic container.
add any optional scents you like:
- Vanilla: Great especially in the coffee or brown sugar scrub.
- Orange, lime, tangerine or lemon: For an uplifting effect.
- Rosemary, eucalyptus or peppermint: For clearing out the sinuses and stimulating the body
- Cinnamon or clove: For improving circulation and adding a spicy kick to your scrub.
- Rose, jasmine or ylang-ylang: for a romantic floral scrub.
- Geranium: For balancing your mood.
- Lavender: For promoting relaxation.
to use: place some on a wash cloth and rub in circles anywhere you need exfoliation.
note: the sugar may settle to the bottom, so it may be necessary to shake before using.

Note: Coffee can be used as a topical scrub as well.
From Cancerlynx.com:

Coffee is granular and feels nice on the skin but the caffeine has added benefits. Applied topically coffee helps to redistribute fat cells and decrease the formation of cellulite. It also acts as a vasorestrictor, tightening and shrinking blood vessels thereby helping eliminate varicose veins. It has been used for years in spas in Hawaii and on the coast of Bali.

13. Bath Salts

2006-11-13T11:27:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Stir ingredients together, making sure the essential oil gets incorporated into the salt mixture
Pour mixture into the glass jar
Attach instructions: Add 2 TBSP bath salt to warm bath....

12. Laundry Sachet

2006-11-13T10:53:00.000-07:00

Similar to the No Sew Sachet, except this time you don't use glue or heat sensitive adhesives.

MATERIALS

Another option is to use small muslin draw string bags (usually found at craft stores & just cinch the bag closed after adding the lavender)

INSTRUCTIONS

For each sachet, place 2 matching 5-inch fabric squares back-to-back and sew the edges together on 3 sides.
ll the sachet with about 1/2 cup of lavender. Then sew together the open edges.

These may be thrown into the dryer with your damp clothes. Use up to 6 times before replenishing or replacing.

11. Grain filled Hug (Heating Pad)

2006-11-13T10:19:00.000-07:00

Grain-filled heating pads have become quite popular in health food stores, gifts shops and at craft bazaars. But they are often quite costly. Here is a set of simple and thrifty instructions to make your own rice-filled heating pad using scraps of fabric you may already have on hand.

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS
Part one: The rice bag

From pre-washed cotton muslin, or similar fabric, cut a piece 8" x 22".
Fold the rectangle in half so now it measures 8" x 11" and sew the two longer edges. You can use your serger, if you have one.
Turn right sides out, so you now have a nice little fabric bag. Iron if necessary.
Fill the bag with about 3 C. of grain (rice, barley, whatever). It should be pretty full, about 2/3 filled, but still have some give to it, like a bean bag.
Sew or serge the end of the bag shut. You may want to turn in the ends so there are no raw edges, and use pins to keep the grain from sliding out on the sewing table. Of course, you can also whipstitch the opening closed by hand.

Part Two: The Cover

You can use either cotton flannel, a small towel, or regular quilting cotton for the cover: anything that will be soft and comfortable against the skin. Do not use synthetic fabrics, or fabrics with metallics in them. This is going to be heated in the microwave, remember!

Cut your cover with dimensions one to two inches wider than you cut your grain bag, and three to five inches longer. In this example, that would be 9x25 inches.
Lay the fabric wrong side up on your table, and fold over one end about half an inch to hem it. Fold the opposite end over the same way.
Sew both end hems. (separately, not together)
Lay the cover out again, right side up. Take one hemmed end and fold it back a few inches. In this example we should have 2 inches to fold. Finger press into place. Fold the opposite hemmed end over the previous fold, so the hem meets up with the first folded edge
Sew the two long edges of the cover, being sure to sew through all the layers.
Turn inside out. You should now have something that resembles a fabric sandwich bag, with a flap at one end. When the grain bag is inserted, fold the flap over the open end to close it.
That's it! Remember that the cover can be taken off for cleaning, since the grain inside can't get wet.

Heating Instructions:

From Reddawn.net

10. Eye Pillow

2006-11-13T10:07:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Before you start, add 5 - 10 drops of essential oil to 2/3 cup rice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then mix well to blend, and leave it for about an hour. This allows the rice to absorb the oil, preventing greasy spots on your fabric. If you're making several pillows, you can mix up a big batch of rice and oil at once. Alternately, you can skip the oil and use 1/4 to 1/3 lavender flowers in place of some of the rice.
Fold the square of fabric in half, right sides facing (the opposite side of what you want to show up should be on the outside; you'll turn it inside-out after you sew it up)
Sew along the long side and one short side to form a pouch. If you're sewing by hand, keep your stitches small. Look at the decorative stitching on your jeans for a guideline.
Turn pouch rightside-out. You can use a pen with a lid to poke out the corners and make them nice and square.
Fold open edge in about 1/2" on itself; iron. (If you don't have an iron, just skip this step and you'll fold it in when you sew it.
Fill pouch with 2/3 cup scented rice. Slightly roll up the envelope lengthwise, slide it into the pouch, and use it to hold the pouch open and while you fill it with rice.
Sew up open side. If you didn't iron the hem in earlier, then make sure you fold in the unfinished edges. If you're handsewing, sew several extra stitches at the beginning and the end of the seam to prevent it from unraveling.

Recline, situate pillow over closed eyes, and relax. Eye pillow may be chilled or stored in the freezer for use over the eyes or forehead to help ease a headache or hangover. If fragrance fades, revive with a few drops of essential oil along seam.

From Smile and Act Nice

Did you like this article? Make a Donation | Check out Creative + Simple Living and 101 Creative Ideas

9. Envelope Sachet

2006-11-13T09:49:00.000-07:00

Use Martha Stewart's heart or butterfly templates to the desired size, or make your own pattern. Graph paper is good for creating a grid design (such as the one shown at top left). Working on a cutting mat or piece of felt, lay your template over an envelope.

With a thick pin, punch holes through the template and envelope until the dotted design is complete.

Fill the envelope with blends of scented ingredients. We like the following combinations: cedar tips, cedar shavings, and lavender; orange tea and dried roses; and lemon verbena, chamomile and dried lemon peel. (Vary the amount depending on the envelope size; we used 1 tablespoon in the gift-card envelope.)

With a glue stick, seal the envelope.

Poke whimsical designs in your paper envelopes, then add your choice of aromatic blends.

From MarthaStewart.com

8. No Sew Sachets

2006-11-13T09:44:00.000-07:00

Even kids who don't sew can help fashion a bunch of these fragrant, colorful sachets. It's a great way to use up all your fabric remnants.

MATERIALS:

INSTRUCTIONS

For each sachet, place 2 matching 5-inch fabric squares back-to-back and glue the edges together on 3 sides. Spread the glue close to the edges to prevent fraying.
Once the glue is dry, fill the sachet with about 1/2 cup of potpourri. Then glue together the open edges and again let the glue dry.
Arrange the finished sachets in multicolored stacks and tie them together with a festive ribbon or yarn.

from FamilyFun.com

7. Spiced Hot Pad

2006-11-12T18:31:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

With the right sides facing, stitch the checked fabrics into a four-patch, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Center and fuse the 5-inch calico circle to the four-patch.
Layer calico back, fleece (sprinkled with crushed cinnamon sticks and cloves), and pieced circle. Baste the layers together at the edge.
Bind the edge with mini rickrack. Topstitch jumbo rickrack around the small circle.

from Better Homes & Gardens

6. Lady Bug Hot Pad

2006-11-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

The ladybug has button spots, while the other hot pad holds crushed cinnamon sticks and cloves for an aromatic bonus.

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Layer and pin the back checked circle, fleece, and front checked circle. Topstitch rickrack through the center of the fabrics.
Fold the black fabric in half lengthwise and pin to layered fabrics using the photograph as a guide. Trim the raw edges even with the circle. Remove the straight pins.
Bind the outside edge with bias tape, adding a loop for hanging. Stitch buttons on each side of the rickrack to make the dots on the ladybug.

from Better Homes & Gardensm

5. Mending Jar

2006-11-12T17:39:00.000-07:00

Not just for jelly, these petite canning jars are cleverly transformed into organizers for mending necessities -- such as buttons, needles, and thread.

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Trace the widest part of the band circle onto foam; cut out. Using thread, gather the outside edge of the calico circle. Place the circle of foam onto the top of the lid. Add the calico circle, pulling the gathers tight on the underside, and allowing a 3/4-inch opening. Cut a 1-1/2-inch circle of felt with pinking shears.
Glue the felt over the gathered fabric on the underside of the lid. Smooth the calico over the foam, pushing the foam away slightly at the lid edge. Add the band.
To make the thread and needle holder, cut card stock paper on the long sides using pinking shears. On one short side, stitch a piece of felt that is pinked on all sides and slightly larger than the card stock. Allow 3/8 inch of felt to fold over the end of the card stock.
Machine-stitch across one end of the felt, securing the card stock.
Wrap an assortment of thread on the card stock. Add safety pins at the stitched edge. Insert two needles under the thread into stitched edge.
Fill the jar with desired sewing notions. Tie the ribbon around the jar rim. Thread a button and a gold charm onto the ribbon. Tie the ribbon ends into a bow.

from Better Homes & Gardens

4. Sewing Basket

2006-11-12T17:34:00.000-07:00

This sewing basket, complete with painted scissors, offers a personalized set of tools.

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

Wipe scissors handles with rubbing alcohol. Put a small dot of each paint color on a plate. Use colors that blend well together and complement the color of the handles. Decide where you want to place the designs.
To make daisies, dip just the tip of the paintbrush into paint. Lightly touch the paint to the handle surface, making a tiny oval petal. Continue making petals in a circle, leaving the center open. Using white, highlight each petal. Make a tiny dot in the center using a different color of paint.
Paint the stems and leaves using green highlighted with yellow. Allow the paint to dry for 48 hours before use. Arrange other sewing supplies around the scissors in shredded paper.

from Better Homes & Gardens

3. Button Bag

2006-11-12T17:29:00.000-07:00

Inspired by the basic brown paper bag, these small totes are made of canvas or linen.

Materials

Instructions from MarthaStewart.com

2. Button Wreath Ornament

2006-11-12T17:21:00.001-07:00

Colorful stray buttons can be put to new use as Christmas ornaments. If you don’t have enough loose buttons, or the right colors, don’t worry—stores sell them by the bagful. Kids will enjoy this project because each wreath they make will be unique.

MATERIALS

Using pliers, make a small loop at one end of the wire.
Thread buttons onto the wire until you have enough to form the size of the wreath you want. Our wreaths are 2 1/2 inches in diameter.
Using pliers, bend the plain end of the wire around the looped end. This will form the wreath.
Use the satin ribbon to make a loop for hanging the wreath; tie the ribbon in a knot about 3 inches above the wreath.
Tie a bow of seam binding to decorate the wreath.

SOURCES

from MarthaStewart.com

1. Make a Button Necklace

2006-11-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

MATERIALS:

Fold the string in half, and create an end by tying two slipknots 2 inches down from the fold.
Slip a button on one string. Tie another slipknot 1 inch from the previous knot. Repeat until you have 12 buttons on the string. (Sophie makes five strands for her necklace, but you can make as many or few as you like.) Trim the ends (not the looped end) 2 inches from the last knot.
Gather all the ends together, and crimp in a crimp bead. Attach the necklace closure using a pair of needle-nose pliers.

from MarthaStewart.com,/p>