Posted by Erica on
My hair has arrived at that awkward, in-between length, where I can’t quite decide whether to go short again or continue to let it grow. Caroline Ventura‘s series of manageable hair tutorials for Cup of Jo has been the perfect solution for my predicament. I especially love how unfussy each hairstyle is – perfect for someone who seriously embraces messy hair!
Posted by Erica on
Growing up by the beach in Southern California, the ability to knot a macrame bracelet was practically a right of passage. Although those days are long behind us, we’ve never forgotten the ever-so-simple square knot technique. This time, however, we’re replacing hemp and wooden beads for more updated elements like colorful nylon cord and glossy metal charms. Happy knotting!
You’ll need:
- 4 yards of 0.5mm chinese knotting cord
- a connector or charm
- an embroidery needle
- a pair of scissors
- flat nose pliers (optional)
- a lighter (optional)
Posted by Erica on
When graphic designer and artist Joanna Bean Martin shared with us her technique for marbling the bottoms of glassware with nail polish, we couldn’t wait to try it ourselves. Who knew it would be such an easy way to add color and pattern to your next tablescape or party? Remember, the brighter and bolder colors you use, the more the glasses will radiate and glow. Have fun!
You’ll need:
- flat bottomed glassware
- variety of colorful nail polish
- clear nail polish
- a disposable plastic container
- nail polish remover
- painters tape
- toothpicks
Posted by Erica on
The weather is warming up and my wrists are feeling rather lonely and bare after hiding under long sleeves all season long. But after digging up last year’s DIY friendship bracelets, I realized they desperately needed sparkly and shiny upgrades. Today we’re showing you three easy ways to embellish your friendship bracelets, making them all grown up . . .
To add rhinestones, you’ll need:
- a chevron friendship bracelet (tutorial found here)
- 5-6” crystal rhinestone chain (last used here)
- 1 yard of embroidery floss
- an embroidery needle
- a pair of scissors
Posted by Erica on
Given that my iPad is one of few things I can’t function without, it was about time I gave it the royal treatment. Inspired by Stella McCartney‘s iconic Falabella bag, I whipped up a chain trimmed leather sleeve perfect for my favorite gadget! This tutorial is a great way to learn a super simple hand stitching technique which can also then be applied to other leather wares. Have I piqued your interest yet?
You’ll need:
- leather iPad sleeve
- 30 inches of stainless steel curb chain
- 5 yards of waxed linen cord (last used here & here)
- all purpose rotary punch (last used here)
- an embroidery needle
- wire cutters or bolt cutter (optional)
- scissors
Posted by Erica on
We’re stopping to smell the roses with this week’s reader requested DIY. Prada‘s spring jewelry collection, comprising of necklaces, bracelets, brooches and earrings featuring large resin flowers and crystals, is flawlessly retro and delightfully feminine. With the abundance of assorted resin cabochons and pear-shaped rhinestones available online, you’ll have a ball customizing your very own pair of danglers. Honestly!
You’ll need:
- a rhinestone frog closure
- 2 2omm resin rose cabochons
- 2 10mm glue-on earrings posts
- 2 earrings backs
- 2 1.5″ silver head pins
- 2 silver eye pins
- 2 jump rings
- E-6000 glue (the best adhesive to use when gluing metals)
- flat nose pliers
- round nose pliers
- wire cutters
- a small disposable container or spoon
- a toothpick
