MADE BY YOU • FALL / WINTER 2018
MADE DIY
DIY CHRISTMAS GIFTS ENGAGED HOME STYLE SERIES
Fall/Winter 2018 | Display until 11/20/2018 • $9.99 US BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND • Engaged Home Style Series
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contents
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14 LOVELY LINENS Beautiful table accessories make a meaniningful gift for any hostess. By Jickie Torres
16 LIGHT IT UP Personally crafted scents makes these candles welcome in any home. By Ashley Burnett
18 FELTED WITH LOVE This colorful and versatile fabric is perfect for making handmade gifts. By Lauren Hofer
20 THE GIFT THAT GROWS Flourishing plants in decorative containers create immediate interest. By Victoria Van Vlear
22 PAPER IN BLOOM Paper plants combine the joy of DIY gifts with the natural beauty of houseplants. By Elizabeth Falkenberg
24 BAG IT AND TAG IT Make a thoughtful tag as much a part of the presentation as the bag and wrap. By Victoria Van Vlear
8 PLATE IT Practical plates become pretty and personal with custom designs. By Victoria Van Vlear
10 PATTERN PERFECT Fashion your own fabric with custom patterns. By Jickie Torres
12 SWEETLY SCENTED Refresh and renew both rooms and spirits with a natural room spray. By Victoria Van Vlear
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28 CULINARY CURE
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48 SCRUB-A-DUB-DUB
Custom-seasoned salts will have your favorite cook taking a taste or ten. By Jickie Torres
Pamper your recipient with a soak or scrub with these selections. By Jickie Torres
30 SPOT OF TEA
50 A SOFT TOUCH
Teatime just got more exciting with so many fresh blends to sample. By Victoria Van Vlear
Moisturized skin never goes out of style, nor do these custom lotions. By Jickie Torres
32 LOVINGLY LAYERED
52 CUTE CUTICLES
A decorative jar holds all that’s needed for a tasty ready-to-make recipe. By Hannah Roberts
Create pretty polish in any color under the sun— sparkle optional! By Ashley Burnett
34 PRACTICAL PANTRY PRESENTS
54 IT’S A WASH
The pantry essential of homemade oil or vinegar is a gift that keeps on giving. By Elizabeth Falkenberg
Squeaky clean is anything but boring with custom soap scents and shapes. By Melissa Anderson and Victoria Van Vlear
36 BAKED GOODNESS
56 SOFT LIPS
Send your family and friends to heaven with this to-die-for sweet treat. By Michelle Tschopp Jackson
Everyone loves lip balm, especially when it’s in unique flavors like these. By Victoria Van Vlear
38 NUT YOUR AVERAGE GIFT
58 HEAVEN SCENT
These versatile snacks will make a savory or sweet gift. By Lauren Hofer
40 HERE’S THE RUB BBQ is always in season with this indoor/outdoor spice rub sensation. By Jickie Torres
42 A BITE OF HEAVEN Tasty truffles are no trifle, as any hopeful gift recipient will attest. By Emma Galloway
44 UPCYCLED PACKAGING Re-make practical packaging to keep foods fresh in imaginative wrap. By Victoria Van Vlear
Sniff out good gifts for anyone on your list by creating signature perfumes. By Jickie Torres
60 SLEEPING BEAUTY There’s no more pleasant way to rest than with a soothing sleep mask. By Jickie Torres
62 HAPPY HAIR Rich-scented lathers of natural shampoos will renew and invigorate. By Jickie Torres
64 FILL IT UP Find the solution for all your beauty container needs, from jars to tins. By Lynn Fong
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102 HANDY DANDY
68 A WELL-GROOMED
84 CURATED CORRALS
Beards are even better when they’re kempt with natural oils. By Jickie Torres
With a little imagination, jewelry organization can be an artistic display. By Jolene Nolte
From totes to handbags, the whole family will enjoy these smart bags. By Ashley Burnett
70 MAN VS. NATURE
86 PAPER PANACHE
A thoughtful care kit can prep your outdoorsman for just about anything. By Ashley Burnett
Learn to craft fun jewelry gifts with paper. By Lynn Fong
The classic silhouette becomes modern art when paired with decorative dishes. By Jickie Torres
72 AT YOUR SERVICE
88 STEP INTO STYLE
Give the gift of organization in the form of a stylish tailored valet tray. By Jickie Torres
Learn how to personalize shoes and other clothing with fabric paint. By Victoria Van Vlear
74 ON TARGET
90 EASY, STYLISH
GENTLEMAN
For his rec room or office, a customdesigned dartboard hits the spot. By Jickie Torres
76 THE FINISHING TOUCH A fancy accessory takes a fun turn with cufflink creations for any occasion. By Victoria Van Vlear
78 AUTO TUNE With this kit, he’ll be ready for whatever twists and turns the road may bring. By Jickie Torres
80 MACHO GIFT WRAP Make him proud to carry away a gift wrapped with his style in mind. By Victoria Van Vlear
ADORNMENTS
A bold statement necklace will help you show your appreciation. By Jickie Torres
92 IT’S A WRAP Old t-shirts find new life twisted into fashionable scarves for friends. By Jickie Torres
94 THE BEE’S KNEES Embroider buttons that will make your friends and family buzz with joy. By Elizabeth Falkenberg
96 TO DYE FOR Create your own hand-dyed pieces with this time-tested Japenese technique. By Lauren Hofer
98 PRESENT AND PERFECT
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Stamp and stencil your way to gift wrap as original as your homemade gifts. By Jickie Torres
104 PERSONALIZED STENCIL ART
106 SNAZZY SNAPS Branch out from the traditional frame with an engaging photo tree. By Jickie Torres
108 ALL HANDS ON DECK Make any family gathering more fun with a card set that will create a buzz. By Hannah Roberts
110 DIY PLAYDOUGH Whip up a batch of soft clay for games from all-natural ingredients. By Jickie Torres
112 WORDY WONDERS Apply the technique of brush lettering to your written gifts. By Victoria Van Vlear
114 BROWN PAPER PACKAGES Brown paper looks spiffy dressed up in lace, strings, tape and things. By Victoria Van Vlear
MBY-1686-5-Editorial 8/21/18 2:54 AM Page 5
editorial
EDITORIAL
Editor: Victoria Van Vlear Managing Editor: Kris Christensen Contributing Editors: Jickie Torres and Sarah Jane Stone
DESIGN
Design Director: Gabby Oh
CONTRIBUTORS
Melissa Anderson, Ashley Burnett, Elizabeth Falkenberg, Lynn Fong, Lauren Hofer, Malena Jaime, Jolene Nolte, Hannah Roberts.
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Surajpal Singh Bisht: Prepress Manager Devender Hasija: Newsstand and Circulation Analyst Shailesh Khandelwal: Subscriptions Manager Alex Mendoza: Administrative Assistant Manish Kumar Mishra: Operations Specialist Victoria Van Vlear: Intern Program Manager
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I STARTED CRAFTING CHRISTMAS GIFTS when I was 11 or 12. Every year, I’d choose one gift to make for my extended family, friends and teachers, and I’d work on “mass producing” that gift from September until December. Over the years, I’ve made everything from homemade soap and pressed flower bookmarks to handmade notecards and hand dyed pillow cases. I’ve also expanded my homemade gift giving to other occasions, such as weddings, baby showers, graduations and housewarming parties. But whatever the occasion or whoever the recipient, there’s always a moment of excitement when I get the spark of an idea. Sometimes the right gift springs to mind right away, and other times it takes weeks of thinking and searching for inspiration to make something perfect for my recipient. But that’s what this magazine is all about. We have tons of gift inspiration for you, broken down by the type of gift you want to give. Whether you want to make a host gift for a backyard BBQ (try the spice rub on page 40), party favors for a bachelorette party (try the nail polish on page 52) or a Christmas gift for your favorite guy (try the dartboard on page 74), we’ve got you covered. And you can use this magazine not only for gift inspiration, but to learn crafting techniques, too. Try your hand at brush lettering (page 112), indigo dip dying (page 96), creating your own tea blends (page 30) or making aromatic room spray (page 12). Don’t feel intimidated by a new technique— most of these are amazingly easy to master. So roll up your sleeves, break out the craft supplies and get making. And don’t forget to enjoy the process—after all, homemade gifts are just as much about pouring love onto your recipient as they are about the excellence of the resulting craft. Cheers,
Victoria Van Vlear - Editor
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decor
You don’t need power tools and fancY equipment to make your own decorative accents. These gift ideas spring out of a little bit of time combined with some clever ingenuity. Whether it’s upcycling plain ceramics into eye-catching accessories or taking a basic accent and turning it into a memorable statement piece, see how to gift your creativity in the form of decor.
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DECOR
Add your own designs to plates and platters for a personalized, yet practical, gift. BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR CRAFTS BY ANNA JOYCE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA WARNINGER
A NEW SET OF DISHES CAN BE EXPENSIVE, but you can cut costs by embellishing plain ceramic pieces instead. Author Anna Joyce of Stamp Stencil Paint teaches crafters how to use colored pigment to enhance ordinary items, and these fun dishes are no exception. Purchase a few solid-colored platters at a flea market or buy a cheap set of plain plates or bowls. Then jazz them up with some food-safe paint or ink, and your recipient will love the result.
ANNA’S METHOD FOR PAINTING ON CERAMIC PREPARE THE WORK AREA. It’s a good idea to have everything laid out before you start. “Because you will be working with paint, ink or other types of pigment, be sure to protect your work surface with a length of canvas or a drop cloth,” Anna says. If you want to use a custom paint color, mix it now. PREPARE THE PRINTING SURFACE. Dust and dirt are the enemies of a new paint job. Anna suggests that you first wash the dishes in hot soapy water, then wipe them down with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will help remove any remaining stains or dirt. MAKE A TEST PRINT. Try out the pigment on the correct surface before you move to the real piece. Finding a test piece might be a challenge, but don’t skip this step. “Use an old plate or platter for test printing,” Anna suggests. A cracked dinner plate or a single piece of tile from a flea market make perfect test materials. PRINT THE PROJECT. Now it’s time for the real deal! Position a stencil (if using) on the print surface, then fill in the shape with the pigment of your choice. If you want to paint free-form, begin marking the surface with a paintbrush or foam dauber. If you make a mistake, don’t worry! “Use a cotton ball or swab soaked in nail polish remover to remove the pigment while it’s still wet,” Anna says. COMPLETE THE PROJECT. Let the dishes dry completely—at least an hour, Anna writes. Then follow the paint or pen manufacturer’s instructions to heat-set the design in the oven.
TRY ONE OF THESE PERSONALIZED GLASS AND CERAMIC GIFTS Personalize a pair of mugs for a newlywed couple with their monogram, or create a full set for a larger family. Use white or silver pigment to create a winter wonderland scene around the base of drinking glasses for a seasonal sensation. Turn Mason jars into useful kitchen containers by adding labels, such as Flour, Sugar and Rice—then give them away full of their ingredients.
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Embellish a trio of ceramic mixing bowls with stripes, polka dots or swirls for the person who loves to cook.
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One of the best ways to appreciate a gift is to see it in action. Deliver your platter to the recipient with a batch of cookies or a loaf of bread for an extra bonus.
PICK THE RIGHT PIGMENT
Stamp Stencil Paint by Anna Joyce, published by Abrams Books, © 2015; abramsbooks.com.
ALL-SURFACE ACRYLIC PAINT This versatile paint is a great craft supply to have on hand. “They come in a huge variety of colors, which is great if you prefer using a color right out of the jar rather than mixing your own shades,” Anna says. Though most all-surface acrylic paints are non-toxic, avoid surfaces that will come in direct contact with food or drink. Instead stick to the rims of plates and the outsides of glasses and mugs.
ENAMEL PAINT MARKERS These markers are perfect for embellishing dishes because they’re designed to adhere to glass and porcelain. Anna’s favorites are TransformMason Enamel Markers. “The enamel ink is non-toxic and food safe; enjoy them often,” she says. For both the paint markers and acrylic paints, you’ll need to cure the pattern to make it permanent. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to heat-set the pieces in the oven.
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Pattern it DECOR
Why stop at sewing together a home décor accessory when you can create your own fabric and pattern too? BY JICKIE TORRES PROJECT BY BECKA RAHN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNY HALLENGREN
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Use your own patterns to create gifts such as coin purses, party favor bags or simple children’s clothing.
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The Spoonflower Handbook: A DIY guide to designing fabric, wallpaper & giftwrap by Stephen Fraser with Judi Ketteler and Bekha Rahn, published by Abrams Books/Stewart, Tabori & Chang, © 2015; stcbooks.com.
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1. CREATE YOUR ARTWORK. On white paper, use the ONE OF THE WONDERFUL THINGS ABOUT TECHNOLOGY is that it gives unprecedented access to home crafters to bring their visions to life. In the guide The Spoonflower Handbook: A DIY guide to designing fabric, wallpaper & giftwrap, author Stephen Fraser with Judi Ketteler and Becka Rahn give readers a front-and-center tutorial on how to maximize the website Spoonflower.com. Fraser and Gart Davis, two self-proclaimed “Internet geeks,” created the site in 2008 because they had crafty wives who dreamed about designing their own patterns. Today the site is sophisticated, comprehensive and widely popular, offering a range of fabric and paper types on which you can print your easy-to-upload designs. If you have design software such as Photoshop or Illustrator, you can get started with this simple tutorial.
pencil to lightly sketch a diamond motif to serve as a framework for your damask design. Your diamond motif should be the same size as your drawing; the artwork used in this project was about 8 inches (20 cm) high. Draw your damask pattern with pencil, using the diamond-shaped sketch to help you place the elements. Trace over the lines with the marker. To get the “damask look,” think about using bold curving shapes and smooth thick lines.
2. SCAN AND TOUCH UP YOUR ARTWORK. This design was scanned at a 1:1 ratio (meaning full size, 8 inches [20 cm]) at 150 dpi. Open the image in your graphics program and use the Paintbrush tool to clean up smudges or stray pencil marks.
3. CREATE A SEAMLESS PATTERN. For this design, Becka
wanted the squid motifs to be very close to one another, with little space separating them, so she made a seamless tile digitally. To do this, make a new canvas in your graphics program that is about four times larger than your motif, so you have plenty of space to work. Using the Lasso tool, select your image, tracing very close to the edges of the design. Copy that selection and then paste it onto your new canvas, using the Move tool to put it in the top left corner of the canvas. Paste another copy of the design and move it to the right, aligning the top and bottom edges with your first copy. Continue to copy and paste until you have six copies of your design in three staggered lines; one in each corner and one in the center. Carefully align them so they are close together, fitting in like puzzle pieces with tops and edges aligned. Your graphics program may have an option to turn on rulers or a grid to help you line up things. Next crop the tile. Look for a distinctive element in your design (a guide element) to help you place the crop. For this design, we used the left eyeball of the squid as the guide element. Place the four corners of the crop box at exactly the same place on each of the outer four designs in relation to the guide element. Here that means each corner of the crop box is at the center of the squid’s left eyeball. After cropping, you have a tile that should repeat seamlessly. You can test the repeat several ways: •
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OPEN A NEW CANVAS AND COPY AND PASTE THIS TILE, PLACING THE TILES IN A GRID. UPLOAD AND PREVIEW IT AT SPOONFLOWER.COM.
SQUID DAMASK PATTERN MATERIALS & TOOLS: TO DESIGN THE FABRIC PENCIL AND FINE-TIPPED INDELIBLE MARKER WHITE PAPER SCANNER 5 YARDS (4.6 METERS) LINEN-COTTON CANVAS, SILKY FAILLE, ECO-CANVAS OR SATEEN (WE USED LINEN-COTTON CANVAS)
Check the edges of your design carefully to confirm that the lines are smooth. It is easy to be off by a pixel or two, so you might need to undo and re-crop to get it exactly lined up. This can take a little trial and error.
4. ADD COLOR AND UPLOAD. Use the Magic Wand tool
to select the areas of your design, beginning with the marker outline. Fill it with your preferred color to cover the outline, then fill in the rest of your design with the same color. Select the background color, and then fill using the Paint Bucket tool for a simple two-color design. Upload your design to Spoonflower.com and choose a basic layout for your fabric.
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DECOR
Sweetly scented Help friends keep their homes smelling lovely with homemade room spray.
TRY A REED DIFFUSER For a steady scent you don’t have to spray, make your own reed diffuser. In a glass jar or bottle, combine ¼ cup safflower or sweet almond oil with 1 teaspoon rubbing alcohol and 10–15 drops essential oil. Add some reed sticks or bamboo skewers and your scent will seep up into the room.
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PHOTO BY HENRY DEKUYPER
BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR
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Don’t Forget the Label! IF YOU WANT TO GIVE YOUR RECIPIENT A HOME-RELTATED GIFT, but you don't know their decor style, try a scent-filled gift instead. A homemade bottle of room spray or reed diffuser will work perfectly as a housewarming gift, a hostess gift or a thank you gift.
Be sure your recipients know what scent they’re receiving. Adhere labels to your spray bottles or glass jars and list the scents you’ve used, or give your custom scent a name such as “Dinner Party at 8,” “Mulled Wine on the Stove” or “A Garden Breeze.”
BASIC ROOM SPRAY 30 DROPS ESSENTIAL OIL 3 OUNCES RUBBING ALCOHOL OR VODKA 1 ½ CUPS DISTILLED WATER Combine all ingredients in a spray or spritz bottle, then shake and enjoy!
REST-EASY SPRAY 10 DROPS LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL 5 DROPS LEMON ESSENTIAL OIL 5 DROPS CEDAR WOOD ESSENTIAL OIL 3 OUNCES VANILLA EXTRACT DISTILLED WATER
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PHOTO BY ISTOCK
Add the essential oils and vanilla extract to a spray bottle, then fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water. Shake and spray.
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SEASONAL SCENTS TO TRY
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WINTER Use scents that will remind your recipient of cozy evenings and snow-filled woods. Try essential oils such as orange, peppermint, rosemary, fir tree and cedar wood. SPRING Try flowery scents for spring. Lavender, geranium, chamomile, bergamot and rose water work well. You also can purchase flower essences from craft and specialty grocery stores. SUMMER The hot months are the time for sun and citrus fruits. Try several combinations using orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit and coconut. AUTUMN Shorter days and colder weather mean scarves and warm drinks. Make a spray with warm spice oils such as clove, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon and eucalyptus.
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Experiment with the room spray base by replacing the rubbing alcohol or vodka with pure vanilla extract.
Did you know? Aromatherapy is the age-old practice of using plants (or rather their aromatic plant oils, including essential oils) to alter one’s mood or mental or physical wellbeing. The ancient Chinese, Egyptians and Greeks used essential oils in their medicines and even in cosmetics to promote healing, ward off infections and set a spiritual mood.
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DECOR
Linens A great gift for the consummate hostess, these projects add one-of-a-kind accents to the entertainer’s table. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
HAVE YOU EVER HAD A HARD TIME FINDING THAT PERFECT ACCENT you want to finish off a room or set the perfect table? Do yourself or someone else a favor and customize one tailored perfectly to the décor. Use these techniques with simple store-bought linens to complement myriad styles.
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For the brightest design and most vibrant colors, choose white material for your project.
STRAIGHT-ON SEWING Use a simple straight stich on a sewing machine to add ruffles, lace or any other kind of trim to a plain store-bought runner for a fast project. You can also hand-sew these easily in just a couple of hours. PAINT IT PRETTY Create a simple shape using painter’s tape— we like the ease of a chevron, checkerboard or striped pattern. Then use acrylic or fabric paint to fill in the open areas. Let dry, then carefully pull back the tape to reveal your final print. STAMP YOUR WAY Find a rubber stamp in a craft store with the right motif, or create your own by carving a design into a potato half or trimming a sponge into shape. GET STENCIL SAVVY Create a large allover pattern by repurposing a wall stencil as your fabric stencil. Or use a stencil to monogram linen with the recipient’s initials.
HEAT-SET YOUR PAINTED PROJECTS BEFORE YOU WRAP UP YOUR NEW GIFT, BE SURE TO CURE THE PAINT SO THE DESIGN LASTS.
You can heat-set linen by placing the item in a clothes dryer for 30 minutes on the highest setting allowed for the fabric type. You also can spot set it with an iron, just be sure to place a piece of plain cotton on top of the design and use a dry iron with gentle pressure for 20–25 seconds.
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ALL THE TRIMMINGS Embellish a simple napkin, placemat or runner with appliques—find sewing trimmings or use vintage millinery flowers, buttons and other flat fixings to create a dynamic textural adornment.
MORE TEXTILE CREATIONS: Cotton fabric with a tight flat weave works best for painted projects. You also can paint on silk, rayon and synthetic materials, just do a test patch first. Remove the manufacturer’s sizing, which may prevent paints from taking well to the surface, by washing the fabric before you begin. Always iron your project before you begin, eliminating wrinkles that could interfere with the design and also ensuring the material is square, plumb and flat. Prepare your work surface with wax paper or cardboard to prevent your paints or glues from seeping through onto your table.
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Combine the rustic charm of jute with the feminine appeal of lace by sewing sugary shades of pink and orange lace trim onto burlap for a table runner that is both casual and flirty.
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DECOR
It Up Craft pretty votive candles to light up a friend’s day. BY ASHLEY BURNETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOCELYN NOEL
WHEN IT COMES TO CRAFTING GIFTS, the materials you use determine the final look of the piece. In Materially Crafted, Victoria Hudgins shares a variety of projects you can make using basic crafting materials, such as wax for candles. The resulting votives are an easy gift that will add cheer to any room. Gift these fun beeswax votives for a housewarming party or New Year’s Eve celebration, or experiment to create your own design for any occasion.
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COLORFUL ROLLED
TEA LIGHTS ••
MATERIALS:
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8" X 16" COLORFUL BEESWAX SHEETS COTTON TEA-LIGHT WICKS CRAFT KNIFE
Experiment with shapes and containers for your homemade candles. Create a larger candle in a Mason jar or coffee mug, or use a lip balm tin for a tiny votive.
DIRECTIONS:
Using a craft knife, cut the beeswax sheets into three 4" x 2" pieces per candle. Make the wax malleable by warming it up in your hands for a moment. Overlap the short ends of two of the pieces slightly and press together. Add the third piece in the same manner to connect the three pieces into one long skinny piece (about 11 ½" x 2" long). Press a tea-light wick into the wax at one end. Starting from that end, gently roll the wax strip tightly around the wick to form a spiral. Press the end of the roll into the candle base to connect.
CREATIVE CANDLE IDEAS! Eggshell candles. Use eggshells to shape your homemade candles. Poke a hole in the end of the egg, blow out the contents, wash out the shell and let it dry for a full day. Insert a wick into the hole and pour in the melted wax of your choice. Allow the shells to cool off, and then peel them back to reveal your egg-shaped candle.
WAX ON:
POLYETHYLENE The most commonly used wax, polyethylene is manufactured by industry professionals. You can use it at home when you’re working with molds and crafting wax.
LOW-MELT PARAFFIN WAX This wax creates a beautiful white layered effect when dipped and heated, and you can easily find it at the grocery store.
JELLY WAX This is a great wax for beginners because it’s low-melting. You can place small items like leaves or flowers inside the wax due to its soft nature.
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HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT WAX
Pinecone fire starters. Wrap a piece of twine around the base of a pinecone, but don’t cut the string. Place the pinecone inside a snug bowl or jar and position the twine to where the wick should be. Pour melted wax into the jar, wait for it to cool and then slowly twist the pinecone out. Toss the coated pinecone into your campfire to help it start.
SOY WAX One of the newer waxes on the market, soy wax is popular because it burns cleanly. This makes it great for use around the house. Soy wax also lasts longer than paraffin.
Materially Crafted by Victoria Hudgins, published by Abrams Books, © 2015; abramsbooks.com.
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DECOR
This colorful and versatile fabric is perfect for creating handmade gifts.
with Love
BY LAUREN HOFER PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOLLY JOLLIFFE
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When tracing templates onto felt, use a fading fabric marker. The lines vanish with water or after 48 hours. Another option is tailor’s chalk, which rubs off easily.
SOMETIMES A SINGLE FABRIC OPENS UP AN ENTIRE SPHERE OF HANDMADE GIFTS. To make this personalized initial, pick a font from your word processing program and enlarge to the desired size, then print and cut out the letter to use as a template. Trace the letter onto the felt, cut out the piece and use a sewing machine to stitch around the edge. Add floral adornments to complete the piece.
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Felt is just that fabric. With so many colors and easy methods to sew or glue, it’s a truly user-friendly winner. In their book Boho Felt Crafts, authors Rachel Henderson and Jayne Emerson share felt DIY ideas. There are a few different kinds of felt, and the project you choose will determine the type you need. Generally, you’ll want a basic wool-blend felt—shop the fabric section of your craft store, not the craft supply section. Simple fabric scissors will make cutting out shapes a breeze, and if you’re not a sewer, some of these projects only require glue. When bonding fabric pieces together, use fabric glue. If you’re connecting felt to another surface like wood or cardboard, be sure to use hot glue. Felt won’t unravel or like some other kinds of fabric, so machine sewing is easy because the material doesn’t slip or fray. If you’re sewing by hand, don’t pull the thread too tight and then you’re ready to use your imagination and start crafting. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
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These delightful felt cones are perfect for hanging air plants or cut flowers. Start with a large circle and cut it into quarters. On each quarter, glue on decorative geometric triangles before sewing the two straight edges of the cone together and adding string to hang.
• FELT ENVELOPE. Giving something small? Create a felt envelope and tie it with some complementary string. • BOWS AND GIFT TAGS. Use simple brown wrapping paper and add felt bows and gift tags for a soft-to-the-touch pop of color. • DOTS AND SHAPES. Glue small felt dots or other shapes all over a plain package for wrapping that’s whimsical and fun. • FELT FLOWERS. Arrange several handmade felt flowers in a bunch and glue to the center or a corner of the package.
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Succulent. With a dinner plate-sized circle of felt, cut a spiral to the center. Along the outside edge of the spiral, cut a scalloped design. Roll the spiral, tightly at first and loosening as you go. Glue the small circle in the middle of the spiral to the bottom of the rolled succulent and add a circular felt backing. Place in a small tin or vessel.
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Create a leaf-shaped template and use it to trace and cut out 50 leaves. Add a few overstitches, pinching the bottom tip of each leaf for a three-dimensional effect. Twist pipe cleaners together to make the wreath base and glue the leaves on in an overlapping pattern.
Leaf coasters. Cut out two identical felt leaf shapes. Place one on top of the other and stitch the edges together. Then, stitch a vein pattern throughout the leaf. Repeat in the same or different colors for multiple coasters. Wall hanging organizer. Use a large, rectangular piece of felt as a backing, then sew on pockets sized for pens, pencils, notebooks and paperclips. Attach it to a hanger and this gift can stylishly help meet the recipient’s organizational needs. Flower fridge magnets. Create colorful felt flowers by cutting out individual petals, and glue them to magnets for a cuter way to display family photos on the fridge. Themed felt garland. Pick the recipient’s favorite colors, shapes, animals, flowers or other motifs. Create 10 or more of the same or different small felt creations. Glue to twine or string for a happy hanging garland.
Boho Felt Crafts by Rachel Henderson and Jayne Emerson, published by Cico Books, © 2018; rylandpeters.com.
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MBY-1686-20-21-Livegifts 8/14/18 10:07 AM Page 20
DECOR
that grows Live plants will continue to give to your recipient as they bloom and grow. BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR PROJECTS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE ROSE
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To create a terrarium, simply layer some decorative rocks and indoor potting soil inside a clear glass container. Secure a miniature plant— Stephanie suggests air plants as a good place to start—and then cover the soil with decorative elements, such as dried moss, lichens and small objects that will complement the space.
Garden Made by Stephanie Rose, published by Roost Books, © 2015; roostbooks.com.
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A LIVE PRESENT WILL BRIGHTEN ANYONE'S DAY— especially during the winter when the weather is cold and unfriendly. In Garden Made, author Stephanie Rose combines her passion for gardening and crafting to create beautiful pieces that will liven up any indoor or outdoor space. Here are a few of her projects specifically designed for the colder months—but they’ll make great gifts for any time of year.
3 LOOKS FOR A
FORCED BULB SOIL. In your container of choice, start with a thin layer of stones. Add a few inches of soil and then set the bulb in before you pack soil around it. “Make sure the neck of the bulb is above the soil line,” Stephanie says. PEBBLES. This is a great choice if you want to see the root system in a clear container. Fill the container with small objects—Stephanie suggests stones, glass beads or decorative marbles. Set the bulb on top and add water, maintaining the water level at an inch below the surface. WATER. For this look, you’ll need to create a mesh hammock so the bulb sits above the water line. Stephanie suggests using a purchased mesh or the packaging that often comes with onions and garlic. Secure the mesh on the outside of the container with a ribbon or some twine, and maintain the water level at ¼ inch below the bulb. BULB CARE: Keep an eye on the water level in the container and add more as needed. After the bulb blooms, keep it hydrated until the weather is warm enough to plant outside. “They are not likely to bloom again during the current season,” Stephanie says, “but if they naturalize, you will get to enjoy them in many a spring to come.”
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GREAT CONTAINERS FOR LIVE GIFTS
MASON JAR. The all-purpose Mason jar is a fun and chic container to house your gift. Embellish your finished product with some ribbon or twine around the neck and it’s ready to go.
FOOD CAN. If you don’t need the root system of the plant to be visible, food cans are cheap and easy to come by. You also can decorate the outsides with lace, ribbon, paper or any other material.
SPAGHETTI JAR. Spaghetti jars work well for forced bulbs because they’re long and tall, but the clear glass will allow your recipient to view the root system. You can also use other jam or sauce jars for terrariums.
IN CLOSED CONTAINERS LOOK AT SCALE. Most live gifts are small—you probably won’t be giving away any full-sized indoor trees. Make sure the plants you choose fit the scale of your containers. “Small areas require small plants,” Stephanie says. For a terrarium, she suggests miniature or dwarf plant varieties; for forced bulbs, flowers such as paperwhites or hyacinths work well. MAINTAIN THE RIGHT TEMPERATURE. This is especially important for live gifts in glass containers. “Plants and soil enclosed in glass creates high humidity,” Stephanie says. Try to water the plants with liquid at room temperature to avoid a drastic temperature change. Stephanie also warns against too much sunlight. “Direct sunlight may be safe in the winter months,” she says, “but in the summer, move your plant to a window with bright, indirect light to prevent overheating.” DON’T OVERWATER. Closed containers such as jars and vases are beautiful, but be careful not to overwater—this can cause the plants’ roots to rot. “Unlike plant pots, jars don’t have drainage holes,” Stephanie says. “Water to moisten the soil but not so much that there is standing water at the bottom of the jar.” If you accidentally add too much water, don’t worry—just pour it back out.
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Some bulbs need a chilling period before they’ll sprout, but here are a few species you can plant right away: amaryllis, paperwhites, crocosmia, agapanthus and hymenocallis.
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MBY-1686-22-23-Paper Plants 8/14/18 10:13 AM Page 22
DECOR
Paper in Bloom Handmade paper plants combine the joys of handmade gifts with the natural beauty of live houseplants. BY ELIZABETH FALKENBERG PROJECT BY CORRIE BETH HOGG PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE HAN
MAKING PAPER PLANTS OFFERS A FUN ALTERNATIVE TO the usual houseplant gift for those friends and family members who don't have a green thumb. In her book Handmade Houseplants: Remarkably Realistic Plants You Can Make with Paper, Corrie Beth Hogg shares how she's reimagined gardening through crafting. While made from paper and other common craft materials, her plant projects look remarkably realistic and are a great way to "merge nature and art together" in your homemade gifts.
••
tip ••
USE FUN OR FANCY VASES TO PERSONALIZE THE PAPER PLANT AS A GIFT FOR YOUR RECIPIENT
Handmade Houseplants: Remarkably Realistic Plants You Can Make with Paper by Corrie Beth Hogg, published by Timber Press, © 2018; timberpress.com.
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MBY-1686-22-23-Paper Plants 8/14/18 10:13 AM Page 23
PINK POLKA DOT PLANT
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This plant is composed of approximately 200 leaves in two sizes, in pink and hot pink on 20 stems in a 4inch-diameter [10-cm] pot. The approximate finished size is 7 inches high × 12 inches wide [18 × 30.5 cm]. WHAT YOU'LL NEED: SCISSORS PENCIL WIRE CUTTERS BONE FOLDER
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2 TEMPLATES 14 SHEETS OF 8 1/2- × 11-INCH [21.5- × 28-CM] PINK TEXT-WEIGHT PAPER 1 SHEET OF 8 1/2- × 11-INCH [21.5- × 28-CM] HOT PINK TEXT-WEIGHT PAPER 8 SHEETS OF DOUBLE-SIDED ADHESIVE CUT TO 8 1/2 × 11 INCHES [21.5 × 28 CM] 24-GAUGE SPOOL WIRE HOT PINK AND DARK GREEN ALCOHOL MARKERS WHITE GEL PEN TEN 16-INCH [41-CM] LENGTHS OF 20-GAUGE BROWN STRAIGHT FLORAL WIRE BROWN FLORAL TAPE VESSEL PREPARED WITH FOAM GRAVEL OR GROUND COVER OF YOUR CHOICE
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
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I t l
Connect the wire and paper to make leaves. Because you are making small leaves, cut the paper and double-sided sheets in half twice so you have strips measuring 8 1/2 × 2 3/4 inches [21.5 × 7 cm]. Mock up the template placement for approximately 100 each of the large and small leaves (fitting 6 to 9 leaves per strip) and mark with a pencil where the wires will be placed. Using wire cutters, cut the 24-gauge spool wire into 200 lengths approximately 3 inches [7.5 cm] long. Make paper-and-wire sandwiches by first attaching the double-sided adhesive to the paper, then pressing the wires in place and adding the second paper. Secure the wires in place by pressing the bone folder around the contours of each wire.
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Trace and cut out the leaves. Position the 2 templates over the wires in the paper-and-wire sandwiches, making sure the wires protrude from one point of the leaf shapes. Trace about 100 each of the large and small leaf shapes and use scissors to cut them out. Add details to the leaves. Using the hot pink and dark green alcohol markers, add irregular dots and splotches to one side of each leaf. Next, draw a line down the center of the leaf with a white gel pen. Repeat for all the leaves. Connect the stems to make sprigs. Using wire cutters, cut twenty 8-inch [20.5-cm] lengths of 20-gauge wire. Position 1 leaf stem flush with the end of an 8-inch wire and, using brown floral tape, wrap the leaf stem to the wire. Continue to attach leaf stems to the wire, one at a time, at approximately 1/2 -inch [12-mm] intervals as you work down the length of the wire. Alternate randomly between attaching large and small leaves until you have attached 6 to 12 leaves. Repeat to make 20 sprigs. Assemble. Assemble your plant by inserting the stems into the vessel prepared with foam. You can give some of the sprigs a slight curve if you like. Adjust the angle of the leaves so that the patterned side is facing out. If the foam is visible, cover it with ground cover.
To wrap your paper plant gift, choose a shallow box so you can deliver the gift without damaging the leaves or petals. Then fill the surrounding space between the edges of the box and the plant with shredded paper or raffia. Finally, add the final touches of a ribbon and handwritten gift tag.
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MBY-1686-24-25-Closerdecor 8/14/18 10:15 AM Page 24
DECOR
BAG IT and
Tag It
Make sure your gift tags are just as cute as your gift and packaging. WRITTEN AND STYLED BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
THE GIFT TAG is the last item to check off the giftpreparation list, which means we often neglect it. Scraps of wrapping paper receive a quick “To, From� format, and the bow is what really glistens on the finished package. But that tag can add charm to the overall look. Start simple with a plain paper gift tag, then glam it up with buttons, pompons, rhinestones, ribbon and anything else you can think of. After the event, save the tags from the pile of discarded wrapping paper for future re-use.
Miniature pom-poms make great initials. Simply sketch out the letter(s) where you want it on the tag, then run a line of craft glue along the lines. Pop the pompons into place for a fluffy eye-catcher on your package.
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MBY-1686-24-25-Closerdecor 8/14/18 10:15 AM Page 25
Use a negative effect to make your recipient’s name pop. On this tag, the recipient’s name stands out because the creator colored in the letters. You could create the same effect in reverse—color in everything except the name and it will stand out just the same.
Lace is a perfect touch for a feminine package— and it looks great against brown paper. Cover only half the tag, so the scalloped edge is visible. For a bonus, tie the same lace around the gift itself so the tag matches the package.
Out of embellishments? Use glitter glue to add pop and dazzle to a tag. For a guyfriendly tag, use dark colors and complement the glitter glue with manly stripes that will downplay the sparkle.
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MBY-1686-26-27-OPENERFOOD 8/14/18 10:17 AM Page 26
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MBY-1686-26-27-OPENERFOOD 8/14/18 10:17 AM Page 27
FOOD
TODAY EVERYONE IS A FOODIE. From custom spice mixes in beautiful jars to infused oils and syrups in gorgeous bottles, these gifts are guaranteed to impress the most discerning among them. Whip up a personalized tea blend and sew it into special silk sachets. Or toss together some yummy candies that’ll earn you a reputation as the best gift giver ever.
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MBY-1686-28-29-Salts 8/14/18 10:19 AM Page 28
FOOD
Culinary Cure
These custom-seasoned salts pack a flavor punch that any home chef would love. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
FLAVORED SALTS ARE A WONDERFUL FINISHING TOUCH TO ANY DISH. Gift these simple-to-make seasonings to impress your foodie friends and to help home cooks give their meals even more flair.
FLAVORED SALT BASICS Infusing your salt with extra tastes is a simple matter of baking the salt and your chosen ingredients at a low temperature (between 150–200° F). Use a coarse salt, such as kosher or flaky Maldon sea salt, for a better texture that will meld well with all your ingredients. Your flavorings can be almost anything you like, from citrus zests to dried tea leaves, dehydrated veggies or mushrooms. You can also create a sweet and savory combo by using dried fruits or flower petals—just be sure to chop them finely. You can dehydrate your flavorings first. Or if you are choosing ingredients that are already fine, such as zests or grated ingredients, you can bake them along with the salt.
Salt It Up! HERE ARE A FEW WAYS TO ENJOY YOUR NEWLY BLENDED SEASONINGS. ON POPCORN
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A good flavorful ratio is 1 tablespoon of flavorings to about ⅓ cup salt. Combine your ingredients in a food processor or with a mortar and pestle or spice grinder. Pulse just a few times to incorporate. Store the finished salt in an airtight container and enjoy!
AS A FINISHER FOR GRILLED MEATS OR FISH SPRINKLED ONTO ROASTED VEGGIES DUSTED ONTO EGGS OR AVOCADO TOAST ON THE RIM OF YOUR MARGARITA
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EASY RECIPES TO TRY
CHILE LIME
salt
2 TABLESPOONS GRATED LIME ZEST 1 TABLESPOON CRUSHED RED PEPPER 1 TEASPOON CITRIC ACID 1 CUP SALT Pulse all the ingredients in a food processor for 15–20 seconds. Spread them onto a baking sheet and bake at 200° F for 30 minutes.
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EASY RECIPES TO TRY
PORCINI
•• tip ••
salt
ABOUT ½ CUP DRIED PORCINI MUSHROOMS 1 CUP SALT Chop the mushrooms finely, then combine with salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse for about 15–20 seconds, or until the mushrooms are evenly dispersed in the salt.
IF YOU ARE HAVING A HARD TIME MIXING THE INGREDIENTS, PULSE THEM IN A FOOD PROCESSOR FOR 10–15 SECONDS.
EASY RECIPES TO TRY
LEMON ROSEMARY
salt
2 TEASPOONS LEMON ZEST 1 TEASPOON DRIED ROSEMARY 1 CUP SALT Pulse all the ingredients in a food processor for 15–20 seconds. Spread them onto a baking sheet and bake at 200° F for 30 minutes.
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MBY-1686-30-31-Tea 8/14/18 10:20 AM Page 30
FOOD
of tea Gift the warmth and rejuvenation of tea with your own homemade tea blend. WRITTEN BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR STYLED BY JICKIE TORRES AND VICTORIA VAN VLEAR PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
TEA HAS ALL THE MAKINGS OF A GOOD GIFT. It’s practical, appropriate for both men and women, will stay fresh for a long time and is delicious. It’s also easy to make yourself. Start off with a base of black tea leaves and add additional flavors, or create an herbal or floral concoction from fresh ingredients. Have fun, experiment and give away a lot of tea!
••
tip ••
To make lavender tea, all you need is dried lavender flowers. Once you’ve dried a bundle of lavender stalks, run your fingers down the stalks to collect the flowers and package them for a delicious decaffeinated tea.
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HOW TO PRESERVE
TEA BLENDS TO TRY
FLOWERS AND HERBS FOR TEA
Floral tea Combine 2 part rooibos, 1 part dried rose petals, 1 part chamomile flowers and ½ part dried hibiscus petals. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
Hang dry Tie together a bundle of stems with the leaves and flowers intact. Hang the bundle from the ends of the stems (clip hangers work well for this) and leave the bundle in a warm, dark place for about two weeks. Check back often to assess the progress. The bundles are done when the petals are dry and leathery and when the leaves are brittle and crack easily.
Fruity tea Combine 2 parts black or white tea leaves, 1 part dried strawberry bits, 1 part dried apple bits and ½ part dried rosehips. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
Microwave
Lay out rows of individual petals or leaves on a paper towel, making sure there are no overlapping pieces. Lay the paper towel in the microwave and place another paper towel on top. Start the microwave at 30 seconds at 80 percent power. Check frequently to see how the pieces are drying, adjusting the microwave settings according to the progress.
Combine 2 parts black tea leaves, 2 parts cocoa nibs and ½ part chopped vanilla beans. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
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Silk Sachet Bags. These are available at any craft store and make perfect gift bags for loose-leaf tea. The tea will smell delicious through the fine mesh, and the sachets will double as reusable tea bags. DIY Tea Bags. Cut out rectangles from coffee filters, then fold the rectangles in half and hand sew the sides of the bags closed. Insert enough tea for one cup, then fold down the top of each bag and sew it shut. Secure a string or thread to each bag and add a paper heart or sticker to the end.
••
tip ••
If you want to make caffeinated tea, start your blend with a black, white or green tea base. If you want a decaffeinated blend, skip the base.
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PACKAGE YOUR TEA Glass Container. Store the loose-leaf tea inside small glass jars with lids, such as jam or sauce jars. Finish off the packaging with a length of ribbon or twine around each jar. You could even include a small card with the name of your tea and brewing instructions.
Combine 1 part black tea leaves, ½ part crushed cinnamon sticks, ½ part crushed whole cloves, ½ part crushed whole allspice and ¼ part ground nutmeg. Mix well and store in an airtight container
Chocolate vanilla tea
HOW TO
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Spiced tea
Herbal tea Combine 1 part raspberry leaves, 1 part dandelion roots, ½ part dandelion flowers, ½ part basil leaves and ¼ part chopped vanilla beans or crushed cinnamon sticks. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
MBY-1686-32-33-Foodinjars 8/16/18 3:02 AM Page 32
FOOD
lovingly Layered
Give the gift that keeps on giving—a decorative jar containing delicious ingredients.
COOKIES
WRITTEN BY HANNAH ROBERTS RECIPES BY SUSIE ROBERTS STYLED BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR
IN A JAR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
THERE ALWAYS WILL BE FRIENDS OR FAMILY MEMBERS whose stomach is the way to their heart. Whether their inclinations are toward the sweet or savory, cookies or coffee, the perfect edible present for your foodie is just an idea away. And rather than spending money on a fancy gift bag for homemade snack gifts, why not let the food itself be fancy? Start with a simple glass jar and layer your way through an unforgettable gift.
[ Makes 18–24 cookies ] PLACE THESE INGREDIENTS IN A WIDE-MOUTHED QUART JAR. MIX TOGETHER THE FLOUR, BAKING SODA AND SALT FIRST. ½ CUP SUGAR 3 OUNCES (⅜ CUP) COCOA POWDER 1 CUP FLOUR ½ TEASPOON BAKING SODA ¼ TEASPOON SALT ½ CUP BROWN SUGAR 5 OUNCES MINT M&MS (OR MINT-CHOCOLATE BAKING CHIPS), PEANUT BUTTER CHIPS OR WHITE CHOCOLATE CHIPS ADD A GIFT TAG WITH THE FOLLOWING DIRECTIONS: To bake your chocolate cookies, empty the jar into a large mixing bowl. Add 1 egg, 1 stick softened butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix well until completely combined. Drop by tablespoons onto a foil-lined, ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 350ºF for 8–9 minutes. Cool slightly before moving to a cooling rack.
OATMEAL COOKIES
IN A JAR [ Makes 2 dozen ]
PLACE THESE INGREDIENTS IN A WIDE-MOUTHED QUART JAR. PACK THEM DOWN FIRMLY AFTER EACH NEW INGREDIENT. ¼ CUP SUGAR ½ CUP BROWN SUGAR 1 ½ CUPS FLOUR
If you’re including a recipe with your food jar, either tie it onto the front with ribbon or attach it to the glass itself. You could even label the lid!
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¾ TEASPOON BAKING SODA ¼ TEASPOON BAKING POWDER ½ CUP CHOCOLATE CHIPS ½ CUP ROLLED OATS ½ CUP PLAIN M&MS ADD A GIFT TAG WITH THE FOLLOWING DIRECTIONS: To make your cookies, in a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup butter, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 egg. Add the contents of the jar and stir until well blended. Form dough into small balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 350ºF for 10–12 minutes.
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MORE IDEAS ON THE MENU TO GIVE A JAR A SPECIAL DECORATIVE TOUCH, include M&Ms or other candies in the recipient’s favorite color, or use red and green for a Christmas gift.
TRAIL MIX. Layer in equal parts Chex cereal, pretzel sticks, Cheez-It crackers and mixed nuts. Add a smaller layer of chocolate chips or M&Ms on top for a sweet surprise. Your recipient can dump the ingredients in a bowl for a ready-to-eat snack. POPCORN. Prepare a batch of popcorn and add your own homemade flavor—mix in a handful (or two) of chocolate chips, a few drizzles of caramel sauce or even some hot sauce for a unique spicy flair. CUPCAKES. Make a batch of cupcakes, then layer them into a jar and separate each cupcake with a layer of frosting. Attach a spoon to the front of the jar, and your recipient can dig in. No plate required! BREAD STICKS. For an easy, no-bake jar gift, purchase a box of delicious cheese or bread sticks and stand them upright in the jar. Make sure the lid is airtight so the bread doesn’t become stale before your recipient can eat it.
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MBY-1686-34-35-Vinegar 8/16/18 3:14 AM Page 34
FOOD
Practical Pantry Presents The pantry essential of homemade oil or vinegar is a gift that keeps on giving. BY ELIZABETH FALKENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY AUTRY
GIVE A GIFT THAT COMES WITH THE WONDERFUL BONUS OF PRACTICALITY. Ashley English's book Southern from Scratch is a "warm and down-to-earth homage to Southern Appalachian home cooking" and the classic staples of Southern cuisine. English says she has a "serious bond" with the versatile pantry essential of apple cider vinegar and has found countless ways to use it. A splash of it can add a tart and flavorful kick to vinaigrettes, soups and coleslaws. A homemade batch of applecider vinegar or oil will be a lasting, and delicious, gift to your friends and family.
•• tip •• To be safe to use in home canning, the acidity level of homemade apple cider vinegar must be 5% or greater. Otherwise, it is not safe for consumption.
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MBY-1686-34-35-Vinegar 8/16/18 3:14 AM Page 35
APPLE CIDER
VINEGAR [Makes 6-8 cups]
MAKE YOUR
WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
OWN INFUSED OILS
6 CUPS WATER ½ CUP SUGAR 8 WHOLE ORGANIC APPLES, CHOPPED (LEAVE THE PEELS ON AND THE CORES AND SEEDS IN, AND
BY MALENA JAIME
USE A VARIETY OF APPLES)
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
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Combine the water and sugar in a medium bowl. Stir until the sugar has fully dissolved. Place the apples in a large nonreactive pot, ceramic pot or glass bowl. Pour the sugar water over them. The apples need to be fully covered; if they’re not, make another batch of sugar water and add just until the apples are covered. Use a large rubber band to secure a triple layer of butter muslin or fine-weave cheesecloth over the top of the pot or bowl. Place in a dark, warm location for 1 week. If a white, cloudy film forms during the fermenting time, that’s fine. If gray, white, green, or other-colored mold or scum forms, your ferment is likely contaminated and it’s best to compost this batch and begin anew. After a week, strain the mash from the liquid using a fine-mesh sieve atop a bowl. Leave the mixture to strain, covered with a cloth, for at least 8 to 12 hours. Discard or compost the apple pieces. Return the liquid to the container used for fermentation. Replace the cheesecloth or butter muslin, making sure to secure it tightly, and return it to the previously used fermenting location. Ferment for 3 weeks. Begin tasting it then. If it still tastes fruity and not vinegary, leave it for another week. Once the flavor is to your liking, strain it again through a fine-mesh sieve. Store the vinegar in a lidded container at room temperature. It will keep indefinitely.
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Food Gift Wrap :
SUPPLIES:
Flavoring oils is a simple process. Add extra-virgin olive oil and your chosen ingredients to a heavy bottomed saucepan over low heat. Let it barely simmer for 1 minute, then remove from the heat to cool. Before pouring it into the container of your choice, strain out the added flavorings.
STRIKE A BALANCE Infused oils can help highlight a flavor already in the dish. Though you can infuse oils with just about any flavor, stick to flavors that will pair well with a variety of dishes and are less likely to be overpowering.
KEEP THINGS ZESTY Opting for citrusy notes, like orange or lemon zest, is a surefire way to guarantee your gift will pack the most uses. They are also incredibly easy to make: For lemon oil, simply simmer lemon zest and olive oil in a saucepan for a minute, then let them blend for another 10. Strain the zest out and let the oil cool before bottling.
GLASS BOTTLE
MIX IT UP
TAG KITCHEN STRING Fill a bottle with the vinegar and seal. Write the label on a tag. Thread string through the tag and tie around the bottle.
Southern from Scratch: Pantry Essentials and Down-Home Recipes by Ashley English, published by Roost Books, © 2018; roostbooks.com.
Try blending soft herbs with woodsy herbs for a seamless mix of everyday spices. For example, pair basil with oregano, or mint with sage.
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G re W lo s
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MBY-1686-36-37-Mini Bundt Cakes 8/16/18 3:17 AM Page 36
FOOD
Baked Goodness Give the gift of a sweet homemade treat. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHELLE TSCHOPP JACKSON RECIPE BY HELEN ORMSBY
APPLESAUCE CAKE
BAKED TREATS MAKE GREAT HOSTESS GIFTS AND PARTY FAVORS, ESPECIALLY AROUND THE HOLIDAYS. These mini Bundt cakes, with their fun molded shapes, are the perfect treat to send home with a friend or family member. You can make these with any favorite cake recipe, but this particular recipe is one my grandmother made frequently, and my mother now makes every Christmas for the family. Whichever type of cake you make, be sure to package it prettily for your recipient.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED: 1 CUP SUGAR ½ CUP SHORTENING (OR SOFTENED BUTTER) 1 CUP UNSWEETENED APPLESAUCE 1 EGG ¼ TSP SALT 2 CUPS FLOUR 1 TEASPOON BAKING SODA 1 TEASPOON GROUND CLOVES 1 TEASPOON NUTMEG ¾ CUP CHOPPED WALNUTS (OPTIONAL) ¾ CUP RAISINS (OPTIONAL) POWDERED SUGAR CANDY PEARLS
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WHAT YOU’LL DO: Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray small bundt cake pans with baking spray oil and then sprinkle with flour. Cream the sugar and shortening or butter. Add applesauce and egg and beat until smooth. Add the sifted dry ingredients and beat well. Nuts, raisins and/or a small package of candied fruit may be added. Cook for approximately 25 minutes. Cakes are done when an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Allow it to cool, then flip it out of the pan onto a cooling sheet. To decorate, make an easy sugar glaze with powdered sugar and a little water, mixing until it’s well blended and not too runny. Drizzle the glaze over cakes and sprinkle with candy pearls.
MBY-1686-36-37-Mini Bundt Cakes 8/16/18 3:17 AM Page 37
PACKAGE MAKES PERFECT Pair your delicious treat with a charming package. WHAT YOU’LL NEED: • Clear cellophane wrapping plastic • Scissors • White paper doilies • Clear plastic disposable dessert plates • Small rubber bands • Tulle ribbon • Vintage images or illustrations, printed • Heavy duty hole punch • Metallic plastic appetizer spoons • Kraft tags • Jute twine • Alphabet stickers (optional)
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DIRECTIONS: 1. Cut two strips of cellophane, approximately 5" x 30". Layer them on top of each other like a " + " symbol. 2. Place a doily on a plastic disposable dessert plate, and place one decorated bundt cake on top. Position the plate on the center of the cellophane strips. 3. Gather the ends of the cellophane and lift them over the plate. Bundle the ends and secure with a rubber band to keep the cellophane taut. Cut a length of tulle and create a bow, covering the rubber band. 4. Assemble the tags. Punch a hole in the corner of a vintage image, and in the appetizer spoon. Tie the image, tag and spoon together with twine and attach them to the tulle bow. 5. Address the tag and surprise a friend.
•• tip •• If you’re making these as a party favor, coordinate the decorations with the party’s theme and color palette, such as silver for a New Year’s party or pink for a baby girl shower.
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MBY-1686-38-39-Nuts 8/16/18 3:19 AM Page 38
FOOD
Nut Your Average Gift
These versatile snacks will make a savory or sweet gift.
BY LAUREN HOFER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTÓNIO NASCIMENTO STYLED BY ANA TRANCOSO
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GIFTING HOMEMADE FOOD THAT’S ALSO HEALTHY REQUIRES CAREFUL CONSIDERATION. In her new cookbook Radiant, chef Mafalda Pinto Leite shares recipes to transform both the inner and outer self with nourishing ingredients. One such food group, full of healthy fats and nutrients, is nuts. You can make nut mixes that will be both delicious and healthy for your recipient. Leite recommends dehydrating your nuts, because the process cooks them while maintaining their nutritional value. “Always use raw, unpasteurized nuts and seeds, and don’t forget to soak them for a couple of hours or overnight to ‘activate’ them,” writes Leite. You’ll need a dehydrator, a small low-temperature oven and flexible silicone baking sheets. Set the dehydrator at 115 degrees, and after soaking them, spread the nuts across the baking sheets. Place them in the dehydrator for one day with whatever seasonings you choose. They won’t burn, so don’t worry about getting the timing exact. Once they’re finished, try one or two to taste test, then place the rest in food-friendly packaging to give away.
COFFEE COCONUT MACADAMIAS [ Makes 4 cups ]
WHAT YOU’LL NEED: ½ CUP MAPLE SYRUP ¼ CUP GROUND COFFEE 2 TABLESPOONS UNSWEETENED SHREDDED COCONUT 2 TABLESPOONS COCONUT SUGAR 1 TEASPOON VANILLA BEAN POWDER 1 TEASPOON PINK SALT 4 CUPS MACADAMIA NUTS, SOAKED
WHAT YOU’LL DO: Line 2 dehydrator trays with non-stick baking sheets. Put the maple syrup, ground coffee, coconut, coconut sugar, vanilla powder and salt into a big bowl and stir until well combined. Add the macadamias and toss to coat. Distribute the nuts evenly in a single layer on the prepared trays. Dehydrate for 12 hours. Break the mixture into small clumps and continue to dehydrate for 24 hours, or until the macadamia nuts have a candied texture. Let cool.
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5 NUTTY FLAVOR COMBINATIONS
1. ALMONDS with cacao powder and vanilla bean. 2. PECANS with maple syrup and sea salt. 3. CASHEWS with chili, lime and cayenne pepper. 4. WALNUTS with honey and cinnamon. 5. MACADAMIA NUTS with rosemary and garlic.
•• tip •• You can use a dehydrator to make other types of food gifts too. Try homemade jerky, dried fruit, vegetable chips or granola.
Radiant by Mafalda Pinto Leite, published by Roost Books, © 2018; roostbooks.com.
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MBY-1686-40-41-Spicerub 8/16/18 3:21 AM Page 40
FOOD
Here’s the Rub Give the grill men in your life an extra special blend guaranteed to kick their barbeques up a notch. BY JICKIE TORRES STYLED BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR PHOTOGRAPHED BY HENRY DEKUYPER
WHAT’S NEVER TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING? Anything having to do with backyard barbecue. Firing up the family grill is more than just about making dinner—it’s the ceremony, festivity and the highly anticipated results that bring people together all summer long. Try this no-fail recipe guaranteed to deliver a juicy, flavorful dish while making you the talk of the outdoor kitchen.
KNOCKOUT
RIB RUB [Makes about 2 ½ cups]
MATERIALS: ½ CUP PACKED LIGHT BROWN SUGAR ⅓ CUP KOSHER SALT ¼ CUP PAPRIKA 1 TABLESPOON CHILI POWDER 2 TEASPOONS GARLIC POWDER 1 TEASPOON SUGAR IN THE RAW 1 TEASPOON ONION POWDER 1 TEASPOON BLACK PEPPER 1 TEASPOON DRIED PARSLEY 1/2 TEASPOON GROUND CUMIN ½ TEASPOON TURMERIC ¼ TEASPOON CAYENNE PEPPER DIRECTIONS: Mix together all the ingredients and stir well to combine. Pour into a large jar or bottle and, using twine or rope, affix a few stick of honey to the bottle for gifting.
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Mix It Up!
TRY THESE VARIATIONS TO SUIT YOUR GRILL MASTER’S PREFERENCES: BUFFALO-STYLE RUB To the basic recipe, add 1 tablespoon lemon pepper and increase the cayenne to 1 teaspoon. JERK CHICKEN RUB To the above recipe, add ¼ cup ground allspice, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg and 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
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HOW TO USE
THE RUB Follow these steps to make the recipe yourself. Be sure to copy down these directions onto a notecard and include it with your gift! INGREDIENTS: • 1 rack baby back ribs • 1 bottle of rub • 1 ½ cups orange or apple juice • 4–5 tablespoons honey, plus more to taste • 2 cups of your favorite BBQ sauce
1 2 3
4 5 6 7
•• tip •• IF YOU ARE HAVING A HARD TIME MIXING THE INGREDIENTS, PULSE THEM IN A FOOD PROCESSOR FOR 10–15 SECONDS.
DIRECTIONS: About 30 minutes before they go on the grill/in the oven, massage the rub onto the ribs. Use about ⅔ on the meaty side and ⅓ on the boney side. Set aside to marinate. Over a high flame on the grill, cook the ribs bone-side down until they are nicely caramelized. Alternatively, in the oven, cook at 450˚F for about 25 minutes; or under a broiler, cook for 15–20 minutes. Flip over the ribs and grill the other side. This should take about 10–15 more minutes. Carefully remove the ribs from the grill and place them on a large sheet of foil, bone-side down. Bring the sides of the foil up to form a bowl. Drizzle the honey over the ribs and pour in the juice. Wrap the foil around to close, and cook on the cold side of the grill (or in the oven at 325˚F) for 1 hour. The ribs are done when they are tender and most of the juice has been cooked off. Transfer the cooked ribs to a medium-hot grill. Brush with BBQ sauce and flip for a just a few minutes. Cut into pieces and serve.
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MBY-1686-42-43-Truffles 8/16/18 3:24 AM Page 42
FOOD
••
tip ••
For some fun, easy packaging, use a cardboard egg carton. Fill each slot with a mini cupcake liner and place the truffle inside. Then wrap the carton in ribbon, add a gift tag and you’re ready to go.
of heaven Make and give some truffles to die for. RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA GALLOWAY
TRUFFLE—THE VERY WORD BRINGS A SHIVER OF DELIGHT. If you want to become renowned for your cooking, making these little beauties is a perfect place to start. Mix up a batch and then wrap each piece as an individual gift, or give away a whole box or platter of them. Either way, your recipient will be pleased. These tempting truffles by Emma Galloway of My Darling Lemon Thyme will have you heading straight for the kitchen.
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DARK CHOCOLATE
COCONUT BITES I’ve always loved a certain kind of dark chocolate bar with a chewy coconut filling—no names necessary here, I’m sure! There was a stage in my life when I found it nearly impossible to walk past the sweets aisle at the supermarket without grabbing one or two. As soon as I started cooking with coconut oil and I realized its amazing setting properties, I began developing my own version. These keep in the fridge for ages, so they are a lovely treat to have tucked away. If brown rice syrup isn’t easily available where you live, use ¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey instead (the center will be slightly darker, but delicious nonetheless).
[Makes 28] INGREDIENTS 3 CUPS SHREDDED OR DRIED COCONUT ⅓ CUP BROWN RICE SYRUP ¼ CUP VIRGIN COCONUT OIL PINCH OF FINE SEA SALT 8 ½ OUNCES DARK CHOCOLATE,
MORE TRUFFLES TO TRY
Pistachio Place 6.3 ounces raw pistachios (shells removed) in a food processer with 1 tablespoon of oil and a spoonful of sugar. Chill the blended mixture, roll it into balls and coat each in melted chocolate. Chill again until the truffles are set.
Lavender Bring 1 cup whipping cream to a light simmer, then remove from the heat and steep 2 tablespoons dried lavender for 10 minutes. Whisk in 2 tablespoons honey, then add 1 ½ cups melted dark chocolate and whisk again. Chill the mixture, roll it into balls and coat each in more melted chocolate. Chill again until the truffles are set.
ROUGHLY CHOPPED DIRECTIONS Place the coconut, brown rice syrup, coconut oil and a good pinch of fine sea salt in a food processor and blend on high for 1–2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the side of the bowl once or twice. You want the mixture to be finely ground and everything evenly distributed. Press the mixture evenly into two ice-cube trays, making sure you compact the mixture as much as possible, leaving no big gaps. Chill in the fridge for 1 hour or until set.
Whiskey Bring 1⁄3 cup heavy cream to a simmer, then remove from the heat and add 1 pound dark chocolate and 2 tablespoons butter. Stir until completely melted. Add 1⁄3 cup whiskey and a teaspoon of sea salt, then chill the mixture. Roll it into balls and coat each in more melted chocolate, then chill again until set.
Twist the trays to release the coconut bites. Melt the chopped chocolate in a clean, dry, heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of boiling water (make sure the bottom is not touching the water), and stir with a metal spoon until it’s just liquid. Set aside for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Dip each coconut bite into the chocolate, coating evenly on all sides. Use two forks to transfer the bites to a parchment-paper lined tray, allowing as much excess chocolate as possible to drip from each bite before setting it down. Let the chocolate set. (If it’s a really hot day, chill them in the fridge for 10 minutes instead.) Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and then allow them to come to room temperature for 10 minutes before eating—although, really, who has that kind of restraint?
My Darling Lemon Thyme by Emma Galloway, published by Roost Books, © 2014; roostbooks.com.
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MBY-1686-44-45-Closerfood 8/16/18 3:26 AM Page 44
FOOD
UPCYCLED
Packaging
We purchase food in containers every day—why not reuse them for your own food-gifting purposes? WRITTEN BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR STYLING BY JICKIE TORRES AND VICTORIA VAN VLEAR PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
GIFTS ARE EXPENSIVE— both to buy and to make. If you’re trying to save money with a batch of homemade food, don’t undo your hard budget work with packaging. You can make your food gifts beautiful and appetizing without overspending on crafty Mason jars and specialty containers. Here are some materials that make great food packages—and you probably already have them on hand.
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••
tip ••
Paper plates are cheap and easy to work with. Transform the basic paper plate into a unique container for your cookies that requires no extra cost. Simply snip four parallel cuts into the rim of a paper plate, two on each side. Fold in the resulting small flaps (there should be three on each side) and then fold in the two larger sections on the remaining two sides of the plate. There should now be a small flat section in the middle with the four sides of the plate facing inward. Tape the overlapping flaps to secure your cookie boat, and line the boat with plastic wrap so the delicious oil in the cookies doesn’t ruin the package.
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ALUMINUM The classic food can comes in multiple shapes and sizes, but they all make great food gift packages. Peel off the label, wash the can thoroughly and use some elbow grease to create a glossy shine with metal polish. Before you fill it with homemade jam or infused sea salt, make sure the can opener didn’t leave any sharp edges inside the rim.
CARDBOARD Do you throw away cereal, pasta and granola bar boxes? Well, don’t. Instead, cover them with scrapbook or wrapping paper, insert a quart-sized zip bag and fill it with your next batch of candied nuts or caramel popcorn. You could even repurpose a cardboard ice cream tub into a cookie or banana bread container.
PLASTIC Many food products come in plastic containers—plastic bags hold everything from brown sugar and rice to chips and tortillas, while plastic tubs hold butter, yogurt and hummus. Use a plastic bag as an airtight container inside other packaging, such as a cardboard box. For the tubs, remove the labels or cover them with scrapbook paper. Then add your own label and it’s ready to go.
GLASS Spaghetti and jam jars, soda and beer bottles—if it’s glass, it has food gift potential. Glass jars are perfect for runny gifts, such as sauces and oils. Simply remove the labels, wash the jar and add your gift. Top it off with a ribbon around the bottle’s neck and then attach a gift tag.
••
tip ••
Getting ready to make a big batch of food gifts? Consider investing in a custom stamp, like this one from Expressionery. You can get a stamp that tells your recipients their gift has been “Baked with Love,” “Handmade with Love” or even “Stitched with Love” for sewing projects. The stamp can become part of your gift signature—when a relative or friend sees the stamp, they’ll know something delicious or homemade waits inside.
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MBY-1686-46-47-OPENERBeauty 8/16/18 3:30 AM Page 46
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MBY-1686-46-47-OPENERBeauty 8/16/18 3:30 AM Page 47
BEAUTY
WHAT BETTER WAY TO PAMPER YOUR FAVORITE PEOPLE than to give them something all-natural and handmade to nourish their skin, polish their features and make them feel truly special? Not only can you ditch the harsh and harmful chemicals from store-bought beauty products, you’ll be giving a truly from-the-heart treat that shows your friends and loved ones how much you care.
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MBY-1686-48-49-Salts&scrubs 8/16/18 3:35 AM Page 48
BEAUTY
Scrub-a
-Dub-Dub
Treat your loved ones to a cozy at-home treatment using these homemade bath salts and exfoliating scrubs. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
SALTS AND SUGARS ARE PANTRY ITEMS that deserve a spot in the beauty routine, as well. Both ingredients serve as the base for wonderfully restorative sugar scrubs and, of course, indulgent bath salts. Follow these recipes as a base, and enhance the experience with ingredients and aromas that suit your recipients’ personal tastes.
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EUCALYPTUS
BATH SALTS SUPPLIES:
1 CUP EPSOM SALTS ½ CUP BAKING SODA 5 DROPS EUCALYPTUS ESSENTIAL OIL DIRECTIONS:
Combine the ingredients in a glass jar and mix well. To use: Add 1 heaping tablespoon to a warm bath.
LAVENDER HONEY
SUGAR SCRUB SUPPLIES:
½ CUP BROWN SUGAR ½ CUP GRANULATED SUGAR ⅓ CUP OIL OF CHOICE (OLIVE, COCONUT OR AVOCADO) 2 TABLESPOONS HONEY 2–3 TABLESPOONS DRIED LAVENDER 1 TEASPOON VITAMIN E OIL DIRECTIONS:
Combine all ingredients and mix well, then add to a glass jar. To use: Scrub on gently in a circular motion, then wash off with warm water.
•• tip •• Make a lip scrub! Use the same basic ingredients as the sugar scrub in smaller quantities, but omitting the salt, honey, lavender and vitamin E oil. ••
SPECIAL YOU CAN CUSTOMIZE THE EFFECTS OF YOUR SALTS AND SCRUBS BY ADDING A FEW EXTRA INGREDIENTS. HERE ARE SOME TO TRY AND THE BENEFITS YOU’LL ENJOY
COFFEE Add 1 tablespoon grounds if you are looking for tighter skin and decreased inflammation. LEMON Add zest to the salt or a little bit of juice to the scrub for itchy skin. OATS Leave it whole for bath salts or grind coarsely for scrubs to treat dry itchy skin. ROSEMARY Mix a few drops of rosemary essential oil into your scrub or a bit of dried chopped rosemary herb into your bath salts for an energizing effect.
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organic Since the elements will be in contact with your delicate skin, splurge! Don’t skimp—get the best ingredients money can buy. Opt for organic oils and pure honey, and select minimally processed sugars.
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ADDITIONS
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MBY-1686-50-51-Lotion 8/16/18 3:38 AM Page 50
BEAUTY
A Soft Touch
DIY lotion is a special treat. Learn how to create and customize the perfect blend. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
••
tip ••
Want to make a sanitizing hand lotion? Just add tea tree oil, which is a natural antibacterial.
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SOME INDULGENCES ARE NECESSITIES. Lotion is one of those everyday treats that is also vital to anyone’s skincare regime. When you make your own lotion at home, you have the luxury of skipping the harsh chemicals and ensuring all your ingredients are safe, gentle and good for you.
BASIC LOTION
RECIPE INGREDIENTS: 1 CUP OLIVE OIL ½ CUP COCONUT OIL ½ CUP BEESWAX 1 TEASPOON VITAMIN E OIL 4 TABLESPOONS SHEA BUTTER OR COCOA BUTTER ESSENTIAL OILS AND NATURAL EXTRACTS DOUBLE BOILER CONTAINERS OF CHOICE, SUCH AS MASON JARS
DIRECTIONS
1.
2.
3.
MAKE IT A WHIPPED
BODY BUTTER! Follow the basic steps until you reach your desired scent. Instead of pouring the mixtures into the containers, pour your melted mixture into a sterilized mixing bowl and let it partially set by placing it in the refrigerator—you’re looking for the consistency of soft butter. Whip with a stand mixer or hand mixer until the lotion can hold stiff peaks, just like whipped cream.
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4.
Try different oils in your mixtures to test out different textures and effects. Consider swapping olive oil for sweet almond or avocado oil.
••
Prepare your containers—we like to use Mason jars, but you also can use tins or glass bottles by sterilizing them in the dishwasher. Let them dry completely. Add all the ingredients except for the essential oils and extracts into the smaller pot of a double boiler. Then place into the larger pot and add water up to 3–4 inches. Heat the water to a gentle simmer, then begin to stir the oils and butters to melt them evenly. Once they reach an even consistency, add a few drops of your aroma oils. Test and sample often until you reach your desired scent, then remove from heat and pour into your jar or tin.
FROM GROCERY STORE TO SOFT SKIN:
FRESH NATURAL INGREDIENTS TO TRY Reap skin-soothing benefits directly from Mother Nature. Just be sure to store lotions mixed with these ingredients in the fridge to help keep them well preserved, and use within 1 week. HONEY Just 3 tablespoons honey to every 1 cup oil is enough to add powerful moisturizing power with a subtle sweet scent. COCONUT MILK A natural exfoliant, a few tablespoons of coconut milk will create a silkier blend for your finished product. COFFEE Caffeine has been shown to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Infuse your oils by simmering coffee beans in them before mixing with the rest of your ingredients. ALOE VERA. This soothing plant pulp will give your lotion a healing boost.
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MBY-1686-52-53-Nailpolish 8/16/18 3:41 AM Page 52
BEAUTY
Cute Cuticles Nail it with these homemade polishes—glitter optional! WRITTEN BY ASHLEY BURNETT
STYLED BY JICKIE TORRES AND VICTORIA VAN VLEAR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
MORE WAYS TO CUSTOMIZE POLISH GLITTER Add sparkle and texture to any shade of polish. When you pour in your makeup pigment, just add glitter, as well. MIX TWO COLORS If you have several shades of eyeshadow or blush available, why not use multiple colors in your homemade mix? Experiment with two or three colors and give away a package that has coordinating colors. GLOW-IN-THE-DARK For a quick luminescent effect, use the liquid from a glow stick you’ve already broken—just pour it into the polish. You also can use nail resin or acrylic paint for a longer-lasting effect. NAIL WRAPS Paint out the general shape of ten nails onto plastic wrap or wax paper—make sure to use a lot of polish. Add any desired patterns after the first color dries, then give away the set. Your friends can remove the nail wraps from the plastic using a pair of tweezers, then layering the wraps onto their nails over a base layer of nail polish. REMOVER Want to create a set with another handy gift? Make homemade nail-polish remover. Combine equal parts vinegar and lemon or orange juice in a cute bottle, and gift it along with the varnish.
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PERFECTLY POLISHED NAILS ARE IMPORTANT for pulling together a look. But all that polish adds up, especially if you want to give a beauty care package to several friends. So why not create your own homemade nail polish for the varnish-lovers in your life? All you need is some clear polish and old blush, eyeshadow or other colorful makeup with a powdery consistency.
•• You can find clear nail polish in most drugstores for around $1. Don’t get anything too fancy, as you’ll be modifying it anyway. ••
DIY NAIL POLISH • First pour out a little of the clear polish to make room for the pigment. If your makeup doesn’t already have a loose consistency, remove the pigment from its container and place it in a small bowl to crush it with the end of a wooden spoon or an ice pick. (You could also put it in a plastic bag, using a rolling pin to turn it into a fine powder.) Make sure there aren’t any lumps—your recipient won’t want clumpy fingernails. • Next make a small funnel to pour the eyeshadow or blush into the bottle. You can do this with any piece of paper, but a note card works best—it’s sturdy and will prevent you from making too much of a mess.
MORE AT-HOME BEAUTY SECRETS MAKEUP SETTING SPRAY
To keep foundation and concealer from running, create a setting spray with 1 tablespoon glycerin and 4 tablespoons water. Alternatively, use ¼ cup witch hazel and ½ cup water. BLUSH
Combine ½ teaspoon arrowroot powder, ½ teaspoon cocoa powder and ½ teaspoon hibiscus powder in an old lip gloss or blush container. BRONZER
1 teaspoon nutmeg powder and 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder. Combine this in a small tin with 10–20 drops of your favorite essential oil. EYELINER
Mix 2 teaspoons coconut oil with 4 teaspoons aloe vera gel. Add 1 capsule activated charcoal for black eyeliner or ½ teaspoon cocoa powder for brown. You also could add some of the old eyeshadow or blush you used for polish pigment to create fun colors.
Combine 1 tablespoon cinnamon powder, 1 teaspoon cocoa powder,
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•• Powdery makeup can make the polish come out matte—add a topcoat to create shine. ••
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• Shake the bottle well after you have finished pouring. The more makeup you add, the stronger the color will turn out. Give away your custom nail polish as a party favor or at your next girls’ night out.
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MBY-1686-54-56-Soap 8/16/18 3:43 AM Page 54
BEAUTY
It’s a
Wash
Learn to make a homemade soap that’ll clear away the competition. WRITTEN BY MELISSA ANDERSON AND VICTORIA VAN VLEAR PHOTOGRAPHY BY TARA DONNE
••
tip ••
The basic science of soap making is oil + lye. Once you get the basic recipe, experiment with the colors, shapes and scents to make unique gifts.
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Pure Soapmaking: How to Create Nourishing Natural Skin-Care Soaps by Anne-Marie Faiola, published by Storey Publishing, © 2016; storey.com.
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100%
WE LIVE IN AN ERA WHEN IT’S NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE to tell what ingredients we’re eating, let alone what we’re using to clean our hands and bodies. In Pure Soapmaking, Anne-Marie Faiola shares natural recipes that are gentle alternatives to commercial soaps. They have natural ingredients and are easy to make at home. Wash your hands of ingredients you can’t pronounce and show the special people in your life just how much you care about their health and well-being.
CASTILE-BRINE [Makes 9 bars] MOLD AND SPECIAL TOOLS 9-bar silicone cube Savon soap stamp Rubber mallet
INGREDIENTS 1 TABLESPOON SEA SALT
CREATE YOUR OWN SOAP RECIPES
Make Substitutions The easiest way to make a unique soap is to substitute ingredients from a tried-and-true recipe. Change out olive oil for canola oil or coconut oil, or add in a different combination of essential oils for scent. Just remember to check the saponification value with an online lye calculator to determine how much lye you’ll need with that particular oil.
Test It Out Making soap is both a science and an art, and different ingredients can affect your soap in different ways. Before you jump into a large project, make a small test batch so you are familiar with your ingredients and how they’ll react to one another.
Keep a Journal Even if you’re experimenting for the first time, record your ideas and measurements, writing down your favorite recipes and remembering what mixes did and didn’t work for you. Finding the perfect ingredients for the soaps you gift is a little easier when you keep a journal of your projects.
10.9 OUNCES DISTILLED WATER 4.2 OUNCES LYE (5% SUPERFAT) 33 OUNCES OLIVE OIL PURE (100%) 1 OUNCE ORANGE 10X ESSENTIAL OIL 0.5 OUNCE BLACK PEPPER ESSENTIAL OIL
SAFE SOAPING!
R o
Wear proper safety gear the whole time Work in a well-ventilated space No distractions (keep kids and pets away)
DIRECTIONS Add the sea salt to the distilled water and stir until dissolved. Add the lye to the water (never the other way around) and stir gently. This will become hot, so be careful. Set the mixture aside to cool until it becomes clear. In a bowl large enough to hold all the oil and the lye-water solution, measure out the olive oil. When the lye-water and oil are below 135°F (57°C), add the lyewater to the oil, pouring it over a spatula or the shaft of the stick blender to minimize air bubbles. Tap the stick blender a couple of times against the bottom of the bowl to release any air that may be trapped in the blades. Do not turn on the stick blender until it is fully immersed. Stick-blend for 1 minute, or until fully mixed. Slowly add the essential oil blend, and then whisk until combined. Pour the batter into the mold, filling each cavity approximately three-quarters full. Spritz the top of the soaps with 99% rubbing alcohol to help prevent soda ash. Allow the soaps to sit for at least 48–72 hours before attempting to unmold. While the salt will help this soap to set up, it may be stickier than other recipes for a few days. If you are having a hard time removing the soaps, place the entire mold in the freezer for about 4 hours, then unmold them. After the soaps have been unmolded (and thawed if they were frozen), carefully line up the stamp on a cube of soap. Using a rubber mallet, firmly tap the stamp into the soap. It needs to go in only about 1/16 inch (1 mm) to make a good impression. Repeat for each soap. Allow the soaps to cure in a well-ventilated area for another 3–5 weeks before using, turning them every few days to ensure they cure evenly.
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MBY-1686-56-57-Lipbalm 8/16/18 3:46 AM Page 56
BEAUTY
Soft Lips
LIP BALM
With a few simple ingredients, create a custom natural lip balm that friends and family will appreciate. WRITTEN AND STYLED BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR
[Makes 10 (0.5-ounce) tins or 66 (1.5-ounce) tubes] INGREDIENTS:
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
LIPS NEVER STAY SOFT AS SOFT AS YOU’D LIKE, so homemade lip balm is always a welcome gift. This is also a great item to make in bulk because you don’t need to buy much volume: One batch can produce ten or more containers. Make it as party favors or give it to all your friends for the holidays. And don’t limit the gift to the female sex! Men get chapped lips too. For them, forgo the tints and fragrances, using a simple stick tube and calling it “chapstick” instead of “lip balm” or “lip gloss.” They’ll be none the wiser.
6 TABLESPOONS (3 OUNCES) COCONUT OIL 4 TABLESPOONS (2 OUNCES) BEESWAX 15 DROPS ESSENTIAL OIL OF CHOICE DIRECTIONS:
1. Grate the beeswax to make it more
manageable to melt. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine and melt the beeswax and coconut oil in 30-second increments.
2. Stir in the essential oil and then pour the
melted lip balm into the tins or plastic tubes. Let them cool and harden before transporting them.
tip ••
Add small flower petals (miniature roses and lavender buds work well) to complement a rose water or lavender oil scent.
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old food can (make sure it’s clean), and then heat the can in a double-boiler over low heat in 3–4 inches of water. This method will help stubborn ingredients melt, and it’s ideal if you’re using a pre-made lip balm base.
ADD F LAVOR
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3. Alternatively, place the ingredients in an
CHOCOLATE PEPPERMINT. Melt the base recipe, then add peppermint extract or peppermint oil and about 10 chocolate chips. Make sure the chocolate is completely melted and incorporated before you pour the lip balm into containers. The chips also will add a dark brown tint. LAVENDER LEMON. Use lemon juice in place of the essential oil, or combine equal parts lemon juice and lavender extract. For an added bonus, stir some dried lavender buds into the melted mixture before you pour it into the containers. VANILLA HONEY. Instead of essential oil, add equal parts vanilla extract and honey for flavor. If you want the lip balm to have a stronger vanilla scent, use more vanilla than honey, or vice versa for a stronger honey flavor. SODA POP. In place of essential oil, add 1 teaspoon cola or any other favorite soda flavor. This flavor is a big hit with the guys!
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TINT YOUR LIP BALM WITH LIPSTICK. Grate an old stick of lipstick to produce 1 teaspoon color. Melt the slivers with the beeswax and coconut oil, and then mix thoroughly to incorporate the color. Be patient—the lipstick may not melt as quickly as the other ingredients. WITH POWDERED DRINK Kool-Aid, Crystal Light, Country Time Lemonade—if it’s a powder with a good color and flavor, you can melt it right along with the other ingredients. You could even try instant coffee or a hot chocolate mix. WITH BEET JUICE POWDER. For a natural color alternative, try 1 teaspoon beet juice powder. You can find it at specialty health and grocery stores, and the powder will add a deep magenta tint to the lip balm.
INSTEAD OF TINS OR TUBES, TRY BOTTLE CAPS. Pour the melted mixture into overturned soda and beer bottle caps. These won’t hold as much lip balm as a tin or stick, but you can gift two or three together for a multi-flavored or colored package. LOCKETS. Most lockets contain small indented areas for pictures. Pour the lip balm into these indents. You can even fit two different flavors inside one locket. EOS CONTAINERS. To reuse this popular lip balm container, simply pour your homemade mixture into the upturned EOS cap, then screw on the bottom with the lid still upside down to let it cool.
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BEAUTY
Scent Customize a signature scent for a luxurious gift that wows. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
••
tip ••
Oils degrade with exposure to light, so to preserve your perfume for a longer period, use colored bottles or wrap clear bottles with decorative labels to protect them. Always store them in cool locations out of direct sunlight.
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PERFUME IS A CLASSIC GIFT, and what better way to impress friends or loved ones than by creating scents inspired by their style or personality? Making perfume is also much less expensive than you think, even when using high-quality essential oils—you need just a few drops, so your oils will last quite a while.
HOW TO MAKE
PERFUME INGREDIENTS: HIGH VOLUME ALCOHOL VODKA ESSENTIAL OILS, FRAGRANCE OILS, INFUSED OILS AND HERBAL EXTRACTS DISTILLED WATER GLYCERIN (FIND IT AT YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY) GLASS BOTTLES GLASS JAR MEASURING CUPS AND MEASURING SPOONS DROPPER FUNNEL
1. 2. 3. 4. 6. 7.
ANATOMY OF A PERFUME Perfumeries have followed a time-honored tradition of guidelines when it comes to combining oils and fragrances and selecting the right notes. These recipes are based around the concept of top, middle and base notes.
TOP NOTES are the most assertive and tend to be what you detect first: lemon, orange, grapefruit, bergamot, clary sage, tea tree, verbena or mint.
MIDDLE NOTES appear just after the top notes disappear and are usually a little more mellow: rosemary, coriander, rose geranium, pine, pepper, cardamom and lavender.
BASE NOTES are what your entire formula is built upon, and they’re usually detected last. These often include balsam, frankincense, jasmine, patchouli, cedar wood, sandalwood and vanilla.
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DIRECTIONS Sterilize the bottles and jars in the dishwasher. Use a jar to mix your liquids; you’ll want to adjust and tweak your recipe depending on how you feel about the developing scent. Pour ¼ cup vodka in the jar as your base. Add 20–25 drops of your first oil. Swirl the jar to assess the scent. Then add a few drops of any additional oils, swirling and smelling as you go until you have reached your desired mix. Let your perfume develop by storing it in a cool dark space for 2–3 days. Because the scents will meld and sometimes become stronger, you can add a few more drops of oil to balance out the mixture after taking a test sniff. Stabilize the formula by diluting the mixture with 2 tablespoons distilled water, then add 5 drops glycerin to preserve the scents. Pour the perfume into a bottle using the funnel, and then create a custom label.
CONCOCTING THE PERFECT SCENT Essential oils and fragrances can be divided into four main families: floral, oriental, fresh and woody. Think of floral notes at the top of the aroma wheel. Oriental notes, like spicy frankincense or earthy vanilla, would appear to the right. Woody notes, such as sandalwood or patchouli, would appear at the bottom. And fresh scents, such as citruses, berries or aquatic scents, would appear to the left. Combine scents from adjacent families for the best most harmonious combinations.
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MBY-1686-60-61-Mask 8/16/18 3:50 AM Page 60
BEAUTY
Sleeping Beauty Create or customize a sleep mask for a truly soothing and serene deep sleep. BY JICKIE TORRES PROJECT BY KAY ELLEN HAMMAR
EMBELLISH
A MASK
TURN AN ORDINARY STORE-BOUGHT MASK INTO A PERSONALIZED ACCESSORY BY ADDING TRIM AND ADORNMENTS THAT MATCH YOUR RECIPIENT’S PERSONALITY.
Get a flirty feminine look with lace and ruffle trim. Personalize it with a monogram patch or applique, or handwrite a monogram using a fabric pen or stencil and fabric paint. Go glam by adding a sequin or rhinestone border. Create a stunning look with soft silk flower embellishments. Make it whimsical by embroidering or painting on eyelashes or sparkly lids a la Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
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DIY NO-SEW SLEEPING MASK SUPPLIES:
¼ YARD DECORATIVE COTTON FABRIC ¼ YARD SOFT “SILKY” FABRIC ELASTIC HEADBAND ¾-INCH GROSGRAIN RIBBON SEALAH SHEETS ½-INCH WIDE 5-YARD NO-SEW SEALAH TAPE TRACING PAPER NON-STICK SCISSORS
1
DIRECTIONS:
Hand draw the sleeping mask design on tracing paper, folding the pattern in half prior to cutting to ensure that you create a symmetrical mask. Cut the pattern.
2
Place the pattern on the back of the cotton fabric and trace the design, then cut the material.
3
Repeat the same tracing and cutting directions with the soft “silky” fabric.
4
Apply Sealah sheet adhesive to the back of the cotton fabric, slightly stretching the headband while placing it on the back of the cotton fabric.
5
Apply the sheet adhesive to the back of the soft silky fabric, positioning it over the headband and aligning it with the cotton fabric, sandwiching the headband between the two fabrics. Fold the ribbon lengthwise and iron it for a sharp edge. Apply ½-inch Sealah tape to the back of the ribbon, then apply the ribbon to seal the edges all the way around the mask.
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ideas
Relaxation Mask Fill the space between the two layers with dried lavender. Crushing the buds while you sleep will only release even more heavenly scent.
Cooling Mask Fill the mask with rice and then store in the refrigerator. The cold mask will help reduce puffiness and under-eye circles.
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[Sealah adhesives can be purchased at jodeesinc.c om.]
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BEAUTY
HAPPY Hair Introduce your friends and loved ones to the wonderful world of custom-made natural shampoo. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
••
tip ••
You can make a dry shampoo by mixing a ¼ cup cornstarch with 1 tablespoon baking soda. Simply pour into a shaker-style container for easy application. Making one for a brunette? Use just a few tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder!
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HARSH CHEMICALS, harmful parabens and artificial fragrances found in store-bought shampoo leave a lot to be desired. If the world of DIY has taught us anything, it’s that the fewer ingredients something has, the better for you it is. Homemade shampoos are so easy to make, and they leave your hair feeling and looking healthier. Share the benefits with your friends and family following this basic recipe.
•• Make a Hair Mask Stocking Stuffer In a small container, combine 1–2 teaspoons coconut oil with 1 teaspoon honey. You might need to warm the ingredients to create a good blend.
•• PURE & SIMPLE
SHAMPOO INGREDIENTS: ¼ CUP LIQUID CASTILE SOAP ¼ CUP DISTILLED WATER ½ TEASPOON JOJOBA OR GRAPESEED OIL ½ TEASPOON BAKING SODA
DIRECTIONS
1.
Mix together all the ingredients. Store in a bottle. Shake before use.
CUSTOMIZE
YOUR MIX BLEND A PERSONALIZED MIX THAT ADDRESSES SOME COMMON HAIR NEEDS.
Looking for Luster? Add ¼ cup coconut milk for a replenishing shampoo that creates a high shine.
Make a Morning Blend Mix in 20 drops peppermint oil for a rejuvenating awakening blend.
Relaxation Recipe Looking for a calming night shampoo? Add 20 drops lavender oil.
•• What is Castile soap? Liquid Castile soap is made by mixing olive, hemp and palm oils with potassium hydroxide. (You get a solid soap by adding sodium hydroxide instead.) Castile soap is great for beauty-care products because natural glycerine is left in the formula, making it ultra-moisturizing.
Volumizing Formula Combine 1 tablespoon cornstarch with your baking soda to create a thickening shampoo.
Clarifying Need a shampoo that clears away buildup? Add 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon tea tree oil.
Hydrating Serum Add ¼ cup avocado oil for a moisturizing blend.
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MBY-1686-64-65-Closercontainers 8/16/18 4:11 AM Page 64
BEAUTY
Pretty Packages
Nothing says cute and charming like these craft bottles, jars and miniature containers. Use them as the perfect receptacles for your handmade beauty gifts. By Lynn Fong
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19-ounce Bale square glass jar, $4.07. (206) 382-1100 or specialtybottle.com. 8-ounce glass milk bottles, $9.49 for pack of 6. (888) 266-8246 or containerstore.com. Heart favor container, $12.35 for pack of 12. (866) 316-2453 or kateaspen.com. 4-ounce glass Boston round spray bottles, $6.95 for pack of 3. Visit etsy.com/shop/GrandParfums. Slip slide round tin containers, $6.99 for pack of 5. Visit amazon.com. Metallic foil Mason jars, from $2.25. (877) 988-2328 or beau-coup.com. Glass bottles with cork, $27 for pack of 50. Visit etsy.com/shop/DIY1801.
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MBY-1686-66-67-OPENERMen 8/16/18 4:15 AM Page 66
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MEN
GETTING GIFTS FOR THE MEN IN YOUR LIFE IS NEVER AN EASY TASK. But thinking about your gift giving from a DIY perspective opens up a world of possibilities. Not only are you presenting a personalized and custom-made item, you are showing him that you care enough to go the extra mile. Discover how to make everything from custom cufflinks to cool personal camping kits and homemade shaving oils and skin treatments that will earn his stamp of approval. When it’s made with love, it’s guaranteed to impress.
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MEN
A Well-Groomed Gentleman Homemade beard oil keeps your man up-to-date on trends while treating him to a good-for-you mix of natural ingredients. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
WITH BEARDS IN VOGUE MORE THAN EVER— and the trend prompting many men to get back in touch with age-old grooming traditions—beard oil and other facial treatments might be just the recipe he needs to feel a little pampered.
••
tip ••
Is he prone to razor burn? For a good homemade remedy, look no further than the refrigerator! Cold milk helps reduce swelling, with the lactic acid in the milk acting as an antiinflammatory. Have him soak a washcloth in milk then apply to the affected area for 10–15 minutes.
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PRE-SHAVE OIL This treatment preps his skin for a super-close shave, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. INGREDIENTS: ½ CUP CASTOR OIL ¼ CUP OLIVE OIL 15–20 DROPS ESSENTIAL OIL
BEARD OIL Moisturizes and tames frizzy beards and conditions the skin underneath. INGREDIENTS: 1 OUNCE JOJOBA OIL 10–15 DROPS ESSENTIAL OIL
REVITALIZING AFTERSHAVE Invigorating peppermint and eucalyptus help nourish the skin while reducing irritation.
GREAT SCENTS When adding essential or herbal oils to your blends, consider these for their manly scent and added benefits.
INGREDIENTS:
Sandalwood
20 DROPS PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL
Calms skin and tones down redness
2 CUPS RUBBING ALCOHOL 1 CUP WITCH HAZEL 20 DROPS LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL
Patchouli or Geranium Prevents razor burn and skin irritation
¼ CUP GLYCERIN
Bay Oil
10 DROPS EUCALYPTUS ESSENTIAL OIL
Warms and heals skin
••
tip ••
Homemade face oils and aftershaves can tend to separate once settled. Remind your recipient to shake well before each use with a handwritten homemade tag.
Black Pepper Oil A great awakening agent that creates alertness and stamina
Vetiver Soothing and calming—great for nighttime
Frankincense Supports healthy, smooth skin
Clary Sage High in antioxidants and helps clear out toxins
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MBY-1686-70-71-Outdoorkit 8/16/18 4:18 AM Page 70
MEN
For the outdoors-loving men in your life, a care kit they can take anywhere makes an ideal gift. WRITTEN BY ASHLEY BURNETT
STYLED BY JICKIE TORRES AND VICTORIA VAN VLEAR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
IT’S OFTEN HARD TO SHOP FOR MEN— especially the one-with-nature types. You can’t exactly bring the great outdoors inside, but you can help prepare him to brave the elements. An outdoor kit makes a great present for any guy, and you can tailor it to the specific man in your life with personalized snacks and essentials.
••
tip ••
HANDY WITH A NEEDLE? Monogram the bag with his initials.
••
tip ••
To make the gift a real showstopper, include a portable GPS device so he can find his way back home.
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SURVIVAL ESSENTIALS TO PACK To start, find a simple, small bag or dopp kit to hold all his supplies. You can purchase gender-neutral toiletry bags at most big-box retail stores in the beauty section. After you grab a bag, fill it with the following items.
• FIRST-AID SUPPLIES For the adventurer and risk-taker, include several bandages for all those nicks and cuts he’ll get romping through the brush. Include sterile gauze pads, rolls, cotton balls, swabs, cold packs and even tweezers. Also a great idea? Hand sanitizer! It gets messy outside. Calamine lotion and aspirin are also key to have on hand for bad bouts of poison oak or awful headaches.
• SNACKS Outside activities make you hungry. Make sure to include granola bars, trail mix and other energy snacks that are portable and have a long shelf life. For an extra bonus, include a few homemade coupons he can redeem with you for his favorite treats (like chocolate chip cookies) before his next adventure.
• SURVIVAL TOOLS Most outdoorsmen probably already own a pocketknife or Swiss army knife— if not, it’s an essential for any outing. Include a compass for those wilderness areas with no cell phone signal and a flashlight or headlamp for the camper who likes to trek at night; a penlight is small enough to fit in any bag and will work well in a pinch. Toss in a few matches for impromptu campfires (keep them in a bottle to make them easy to grab) and also a pair of warm gloves for winter excursions. He’ll be all set!
HOMEMADE
BUG SPRAY Fill a spray bottle halfway with distilled or boiled water. Add enough witch hazel to fill the remainder of the bottle. Optional: Add ½ teaspoon glycerin. Add 50 drops essential oils—the more you use, the stronger the spray will be. Rosemary, cinnamon, eucalyptus and clove are all known for having bugrepellant properties.
ADD A BONUS PACKAGE IN AN ALTOID TIN
Small and handy, you can decoupage the tin in a paper/pattern of choice to match your motif. EMERGENCY CANDLE Fill an Altoid tin (or another small mint tin) with melted wax from the remnants of old candles you have at home, and then place several wicks inside. Include a few matches within the tin to make an emergency candle, which will help your man keep away finger frostbite during colder months or light the way home.
TACKLE BOX Cut up popsicle sticks to create separate compartments in the tin. Use a hot glue gun to fit them into place. Add hooks, extra line and anything else he might need in the individual compartments.
FIRE-STARTING KIT Include all the essentials he’ll need to start a fire: matches, petroleum jelly, a miniature magnifying glass and cotton balls. All he’ll need to gather is the wood!
WATERCOLOR KIT Create this tin for the man who loves to be in nature— and paint it. Use brass strips to divide the Altoid tin into separate sections for each color, and fill in each square with paint.
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MBY-1686-72-73-Tray 8/16/18 4:20 AM Page 72
At Your Service
MEN
Create a valet tray custom tailored to your recipient’s style and needs. BY JICKIE TORRES PROJECT AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAY ELLEN HAMMAR
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FROM KEYS TO CUFFLINKS TO COLOGNE, a valet tray is the classic men’s catchall. Why not spiff it up a notch and upcycle found materials into a handsome one-of-a-kind dresser accessory? You’ll be able to choose your colors, materials and motifs to suit his personality and his space.
DIY VALET TRAY MATERIALS: SHOEBOX LID ½ YARD FAUX SUEDE ¼ YARD BURLAP 2 YARDS DECORATIVE RIBBON VINTAGE MAP SEALAH ADHESIVES SHEETS ½ INCH-WIDE NO-SEW SEALAH ADHESIVE TAPE NON-STICK SCISSORS
Industrial Chic
DIRECTIONS:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Place the shoebox lid, top down, on the backside of the faux suede. Trace the lid onto the suede and then add 4 inches to every side; this will allow for folding and covering the box lid edges. Apply an adhesive sheet to the box lid, making sure to completely cover the top, inside, outside edges and inside edges. Lay the box lid down onto the suede, aligning it with the traced lines, and press firmly.
Take advantage of the myriad vintage accents you can use to embellish a standard tray, from weathered maps to worn hardware and metal fittings—you can give any basic valet a vintage edge.
OTHER UPCYCLE IDEAS: GET SCRAPPY
Wrap the suede up and over the edges, starting with the two long sides first and then the ends. Folds the corners the same way you would fold gift wrap around a present.
Turn a simple store-bought tray into a personalized accent by monogramming it. Simply decoupage a scrapbook letter in the center or corner of the tray.
Measure and cut burlap to cover the inside of the box lid from edge to edge. Apply an adhesive sheet to the back of the burlap, laying it into place and then pressing firmly.
PAINT YOUR PALLETTE
Apply ½ inch no-sew tape to the back of the decorative ribbon, positioning the ribbon so it covers all the raw edges inside the box lid.
Use a stencil to apply a pattern to the flat base of the tray. You also can get creative and freehand a design or simply add an inset border for a little more flair.
PLAY WITH PATTERNS
Cut the vintage map small enough that the burlap and the ribbon show once it is in position. Apply a sheet of adhesive to the back of the map, placing and pressing it into position.
Make a classic leather or wood tray a bit more interesting by lining it with a contrasting material. You can add a plaid fabric border around a leather tray to feel more luxe, or you can line a wood tray with metal wire or grating for a more texture and dimension.
Sealah Adhesives can be purchased at jodeesinc.com.
HAVE FUN Try using a more unexpected material. Build a tray from Legos or Lincoln Logs, then apply a coat of shellac to fuse them together more securely.
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MBY-1686-74-75-Dartboard 8/16/18 4:25 AM Page 74
MEN
On Target Hit a bull’s-eye on your next gift idea with this homemade mini dartboard. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
LET’S FACE IT, there’s no reason that fun and games have to end, no matter your age. So why not give him something that appeals to his playful side? This handcrafted dartboard is easier to make than it looks. Using a mix of elements and supplies you easily can find at any major craft store, you can create an artisanal-looking game.
WOOD &
CORK DARTBOARD MATERIALS:
WOOD CUT SLICE, AT LEAST 1-INCH THICK CORK SHEET PEN INDELIBLE INK MARKERS IN BLACK, RED AND GREEN RULER HOT GLUE AND GLUE GUN FOAM NUMBER SET (FROM THE SCRAPBOOKING SECTION OF YOUR CRAFT STORE)
WHITE DIE CUT CARDSTOCK CIRCLE (YOU CAN CUT ONE YOURSELF) DIRECTIONS:
1. Cut a circle from your cork sheet to fit inside your woodcut slice. You can use a can, a bowl or another round object of similar size to trace a perfect circle.
2. Glue the cork to the woodcut. 3. Begin to draw your target chart by first finding the center
of the circle. You can do this by measuring the diameter of the circle then dividing that number in half. Then, starting from the outside edge of the circle, measure in toward the center using that number. For example, if your circle is 10 inches across, the center point would be at 5 inches.
4. Using the center as your pivot point, use the ruler and the
MAKE A MAGNETIC DARTBOARD Follow the same general method to create a dartboard perfect for the office by using felt sheets and fabric paint. Just sew a sleeve by folding the top edge over two inches and then sewing a seam all the way across. You can use a simple wood dowel and string to create a hanger. Then using the tracing method from the bull’seye project, create the target sections with fabric paint and a brush. In lieu of foam stickers, you can use iron-on patches or number stencils and more fabric paint to draw on the points. Then, using a glue gun and hot glue, affix a thin magnetic sheet (find this at craft or officesupply stores) to the back of the hanging.
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pen to draw lines that divide the circle into 16 equal sections.
5. Color in the target. Begin by coloring a ¼-inch black line
along the outer edge of the target. Then, just on the inside of that line, color in a ¼-inch red line. To create the green line, use a round object such as a jar, a cup or a can that is about half as big as your target. Use the pen to trace that circle template, then color along that line with the green marker to create a ¼-inch think band.
6. Fill in every other section with black market to finish the grid.
7. Glue the white cardstock circle in the vey center to create the bull’s-eye.
8. Add the foam numbers to the outside edge of each section to demarcate the points.
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•• tip •• Order customized darts online to complement your creation. Sites like bw-darts.c om allow you to choose text or select from a gallery of images to print onto interchangeable dart f lights. ••
P ERSONALIZE I T! Monogram his initials inside the bull’s-eye. Use colors from his favorite sports team favorite team to color in your sections. If you’re feeling extra artistic, color in every other section with a camouflage pattern instead of black for a hunting enthusiast. Instead of painting every other section black, omit all the colors and instead draw a symbol or motif inside the circle. You can print out clipart from the Internet, cut it out and trace it to get the outline and then fill in with the color of your choice.
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MEN
The Finishing Touch
Help him top off a classy suit ensemble by presenting him with a pair of custom cufflinks. WRITTEN AND STYLED BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
EVERY MAN NEEDS A GOOD PAIR OF CUFFLINKS. Whether the suit-worthy occasion is his daily grind in the office, a gig with the band or a friend’s wedding, cufflinks add an extra pop to any suit while earning a nod of approval from other sophisticated men. Create custom sets for the men in your life with some easy materials to acquire or find at home.
•• tip •• If you make your man a pair of cuff links, make sure he has a dress shirt with French cuffs so he can wear them! If he doesn’t own one, make it a double gift. ••
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HOW TO CUSTOMIZE
CUFFLINKS Start with a pair (or two) of cufflink blanks. You can find these online or at certain specialty craft stores. You also can use a pair of plain cufflinks from a thrift store or flea market. Then simply use hot glue or a super string fixative like E600 to embellish them with two items you think your man will love! Hunt around for some found items, or visit the flea market to pick up a few old trinkets. Make sure to think about what kind of events he’ll be attending, and adjust your objects accordingly. For example, a pair of miniature toy cars might not be appropriate for a law trial or a funeral. But if that’s the case, you might include a few different pairs to suit various occasions. This is a great homemade gift to try with the kids! Make them for Grandpa on Father’s Day or for Dad’s birthday. Have the kids pick out a pair of items they think Dad will love, then help them use the hot glue gun to attach the items onto the fronts of the cufflink blanks. The kids will be proud of their creation, and Dad (or Grandpa or Uncle) will love them because of the tiny hands that made them.
CUSTOMIZE FOR YOUR MAN
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CUFFLINKS
JEWELRY BOX Most new cufflinks come in small boxes. You can find these online, or call up your local thrift store and ask if there are any on sale. PAPER SLEEVE CUFF Cut out a strip of sturdy cardstock the size and shape of a dress shirt cuff. Punch four small holes in the ends of the strip (two at each end), then line up the holes and string the cufflinks through. FABRIC SLEEVE CUFF. Rather than paper, cut two real dress shirt cuffs from an old shirt and thread the links through the holes. Alternatively, attach the cufflinks to one of his current dress shirts and gift the two together.
• For the Dad Make cufflinks that show off pictures of the kids’ faces (or the whole family). Use shrink plastic to create durable plastic versions of your chosen images (see page 104 for a tutorial on shrink plastic). • For the Wine Connoisseur Slice off the symbolembellished ends from several wine corks of his favorite vintage. Shrink-wrap the slices to add protection before you glue them onto the cufflink blanks. • For the Mechanic Add some nuts and bolts to his suit ensemble—literally! Just make sure you don’t leave any sharp points. If you want to use screws, add a small dot of hot glue onto the ends to dull the sharp edges. • For the Chic Geek Create cufflinks that feature his favorite action figure or superhero. Use shrink plastic to miniaturize images of his favorite characters (see page 104 for a tutorial on shrink plastic). • For the Game Lover Does he love board games? Add dice onto his cufflinks, or attach a few Monopoly figures from an incomplete set. If he’s a sports fan, use pins that feature the name or symbol of his favorite team. • For the Collector Whether he likes old coins, buttons or bottle caps, you can embellish his cufflinks with his favorite items. Preserve flimsy objects such as stamps with shrink plastic or shrink wrap.
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MEN
AUTO Tune Does he pamper his car better than he pampers himself? This handy kit will keep both him and his automobile in tip-top shape. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
ON AVERAGE, people spend more time on the road than anywhere else besides home and work. Why not put together a clever kit filled with car-care necessities and a few other helpful items that might come in handy on the commute? ALL-NATURAL PROTECTANT
You don’t need crazy chemicals to give a car interior a clean fresh sheen. Just combine 2 cups distilled water, 2 cups baby oil, 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar, 7 drops mild dish soap and a few drops of your essential oil of choice for the scent. Fill a reusable spray bottle and throw in a few thick paper towels to complete the kit. HOMEMADE LEATHER CLEANER
To keep leather upholstery looking conditioned and refreshed, you need only 3 ingredients: ¼ cup olive oil, ½ cup distilled white vinegar and 5–10 drops orange oil. Mix well and add into a low, wide jar. Be sure to include a lint-free rag to go along with the kit. MANLY AIR FRESHENER
Keep his car smelling fresh with an allnatural potpourri. In a Mason jar with a vented lid, add fresh pine needles, a few sticks cedar, cinnamon stick and bay leaves. Add a few drops of an essential oil of your choice such as cypress, sage, cedarwood or oakmoss. To finish, shake up the jar to coat the ingredients well. SEWING KIT
People often undervalue the benefit of having a sewing kit handy. This is a great item to keep in the car where you can access it at a moment’s notice to take care of a popped button or torn sleeve. Also helpful? A few packets of stain wipes in case of spills something right before a big meeting. FLASHLIGHT
This is helpful whether you get stranded out in the middle of the night or you simply need to look for something in between or under the seats.
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•• T IP ••
You can turn your protectant spray into handy wipes by converting an old babywipes tub into a dispenser. Just cut a roll of heavy-duty paper towels in half with a large carving knife and insert one half into the tub (save the other half for another use). Add your liquid into the tub and start the roll by lifting the innermost sheet up and through the dispenser.
••
SOME HELPFUL
EXTRAS… A FIRE-STARTER OR STRIKEANYWHERE MATCHES. Let’s face it, every guy thinks these items are cool, and they also can really come in handy if your recipient’s regular routes take them through the country. A SWISS ARMY KNIFE. A man can never have too many of these at his disposal. Gift one designated for the car, and he’ll have a multi-tool that can get him out of many jams. COINS FOR TOLLS OR PARKING. It’s a thoughtful touch that can buy him a few weeks of free commuting. A PREPAID GAS CARD. You can find gift cards for most major gas chains, and this thoughtful inclusion could really help if he finds himself in a bind.
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MEN
Macho gift Wrap Skip the fuss, flowers and frills to create a package that’s right in line with your guy’s tastes. WRITTEN AND STYLE BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
LET’S BE HONEST— most men couldn’t care less about the style or material of their gift wrap— they just want the goodies inside. But while it doesn’t matter to some men, those of us with more refined tastes truly care. Here are some packages that make a compromise—they don’t have glitter or floral patterns, but they’ll still look presentable under the Christmas tree, amid a pile of birthday gifts or at an anniversary dinner.
For awkward gifts that are hard to wrap, the go-to is a gift bag. But tissue paper is a little too frilly for the average man. Instead, opt for a brown paper lunch bag. Seal it with some washi tape and use a stamp, such as this one from Expressionery (expressionary.com), to replace the gift tag.
••
tip ••
Embellishments don’t have to go out the window—just decorate with items they’ll like. Tape on a paintbrush or a sketch pencil instead of a bow, or add a couple of wrenches rather than a sprig of faux flowers.
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Maps are a great alternative Newspaper is the classic guy gift wrap
to feminine gift wrap. Buy an old Thomas Guide from the local thrift store and use it to wrap all your men’s gifts. Tie off with some twine and you’re ready to go.
(think Top Gun). Center the words so the package doesn’t look lopsided, then add a man-friendly string or twine to finish off the package.
Bows and ribbons aren’t always the perfect fit for men’s gifts, so try something different: Purchase a malleable tape measure in the sewing section of the craft store and surprise your man with a well-measured presentation.
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STYLE
THESE DAYS, FASHION DESIGNERS AREN’T THE ONLY ONES MAKING STATEMENTS with clothing and accessories—there’s an army of DIY-ers and crafters too! Best yet, people crave special one-of-a-kind scores like these. So dust off your fabric scissors and get inspired to create anything from no-sew scarves to handpainted jewelry that will have your friends and family looking runway-ready in an instant.
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STYLE
Curated
C orrals
Turn found items into personalized jewelry displays. BY JOLENE NOLTE PROJECTS BY TANA SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY TANA SMITH AND DEBBY WOLVOS
••
tip ••
Can’t use spray paint? Don’t worry! Regular paint might take a bit longer to apply all over the antlers, but you can achieve the same effect.
FOR THE JEWELRY ENTHUSIAST, a little extra jewelry storage is always welcome. Fun, easy and practical, a jewelry display will make the perfect girly gift for a girlfriend or relative. Create a unique display from found objects—your recipient will love the custom design, and you can save some money along the way. In DIY Bedroom Décor, Tana Smith provides ideas on how to do just that.
ANTLER JEWELRY HOLDER MATERIALS: NEWSPAPER OR CARDBOARD TO PROTECT THE FLOOR 1 SET RESIN ANTLERS 1 CAN SPRAY PAINT
(OPTIONAL)
1
(ANY COLOR)
2 ACRYLIC PAINT COLORS
In a well-ventilated area, lay down paper or cardboard to protect the ground, then coat your antlers evenly with spray paint. Allow them to dry for about 2 hours. This may require a second coat; just be sure to wait until they are completely dry before going on.
1 SMALL CRAFT PAINTBRUSH (APPROXIMATELY ½ INCH) MASKING TAPE MOUNTING TAPE
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(OPTIONAL)
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Once the spray paint has dried, use the masking tape to tape off small sections at the end of the antlers, leaving just the tips exposed.
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Use a brush to apply the acrylic paint to the exposed tips, and then set the antler aside to dry for about 30 minutes. Paint some of the tips with one color and some with the other. You may need to use two coats to make the paint look opaque. Again, just be patient in waiting for your paint to dry before adding another layer. After everything is completely dry, which can take up to a full day, remove the tape and start hanging pretty scarves and precious jewels on your Antler Jewelry Holder! These antlers came with hooks for thumbtacks; if yours don’t have those hooks, use mounting tape.
FOUND ITEMS TO UPCYCLE INTO A JEWELRY DISPLAY 1. FOR THE FOODIE
The holes in a vintage cheese grater offer a perfect place to hang earrings, while the handle is a perfect resting place for bangles.
2. FOR THE CRAFTER
A thread rack offers plenty of places to hang earrings and necklaces.
SPRAY PAINT 101 The paint will work best when the outdoor temperature is 50° F–90° F, while the humidity is less than 85 percent. Also be sure you use the paint in a well-ventilated area. Especially if you’re new to using spray paint, try a practice round on a piece of cardboard. Be patient. It’s better to use multiple thin coats. Be sure to wait for each coat to dry. If the spray paint bubbles, don’t worry. Wait until the paint has dried, then sand down the bubbles with high-grit sandpaper.
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3. FOR THE ROMANTIC A large picture or window frame is already made for display. Fasten horizontal lines of chicken wire across the frame for earrings. For a more rustic feel, include clothespins, or dress it up with a patterned fabric as a background.
DIY Bedroom Decor: 50 Awesome Ideas for Your Room by Tana Smith, published by F+W Media, Inc., © 2015; fwcommunity.com.
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STYLE
Paper Panache Learn to craft fun jewelry gifts with paper. BY LYNN FONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA KILLIAN
DIY
COLORED PAPER IS THE SOLUTION TO EASY HOMEMADE JEWELRY. Author and blogger Brittany Watson Jepsen demonstrates the power of paper in her book, Craft the Rainbow: 40 Colorful Paper Projects. “This book is a celebration of color and a festival of paper crafts all rolled into one,” Jepsen writes. Inspired by her love of color, this how-to book is filled with unique and colorful paper crafts, including easy-to-make paper jewelry that’s perfect for gifting or accessorizing.
PAPER RAINBOW BROOCH WHAT YOU’LL NEED: CARDSTOCK IN LILAC, LIGHT GREEN, YELLOW AND PEACH SCISSORS PRINTER PAPER PENCIL PAPER MOUNTS GLUE STICK GLUE GUN BROOCH BACKINGS
Paper is an unexpected candidate for handcrafted accessories, but it’s incredibly easy to work with. “I’m constantly surprised at the versatility and strength of paper,” Jepsen writes. “[These accessories] are so easy to make, that you can create one for every occasion.” When you choose the color and pattern of your paper, keep in mind that muted paper palettes are more harmonious for jewelry. “Dull the brightness—bright orange down to burnt orange makes the color more wearable,” Jepsen writes. Darker colors will suit a sophisticated, adult vibe, while brighter colors are more youthful and fun. You could even create a balance of the two by pairing them together.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
1. On the printer paper, create a template To make paper bracelets, cut paper disks out of cardstock and thread them together with a length of elastic string. The result is surprisingly strong, and you can wear them in “a few in different shades for more impact.”
by drawing four semicircles, or by printing out the shapes from your computer.
2.
Cut the pieces out in rainbow colored paper. Using a paper mount, adhere the green arch to the purple arch, aligning the bottom edges.
3. With a glue stick, glue the yellow arch to the green arch.
4. Using another paper mount, adhere the pink arch to the yellow arch.
5. With a glue gun, glue the brooch back to the back of the rainbow.
Transform a cupcake liner into a chic, cheerful clip that’s perfect for a party. Fold the liner in half, glue it onto painted wooden disks and attach it to a shoe clip.
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Craft the Rainbow: 40 Colorful Paper Projects by Brittany Watson Jepsen, published by Abrams, © 2018; abramsbooks.com.
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tip ••
HOSTING A PARTY? MAKE PAPER BROOCHES AS THE PARTY FAVORS FOR YOUR GUESTS.
5 MORE IDEAS FOR PAPER JEWELRY 1 2 3 4 5
DRINKING STRAW PARTY CROWNS. Glue drinking straws to a single strip of paper to create a handmade party crown for the guest of honor. RAINBOW TASSEL NECKLACE. Bring some 1960s inspired flair into your recipient’s wardrobe. Use fringe scissors to cut fringes on strips of paper in various colors, then roll the strips to create paper tassels you can string onto a necklace. PAPER EARRINGS. This is easier than you might think. Simply cut out pieces of paper in your chosen design, glue the pieces together and then glue the whole piece onto earring backs. FLOWER CROWN. Create small flowers with crepe paper, attach them to cloth-covered wires and attach the flowers to a circle of wire. Continue until you have a colorful crown your recipient can wear for any season. ORIGAMI MONEY LEI. Go one step further with this quintessential graduation gift by decorating a money lei with origami paper flowers for a present that’s fun and thoughtful.
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STYLE
Step into Style Learn how to personalize shoes and other clothing with fabric paint. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR
••tip •• Try different sheens with your fabric paint, such as metallic or glittery paint. These will give your shoes a unique vibe.
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SHOES CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE IN AN OUTFIT, AND THEY MAKE GOOD GIFTS TOO. Whether you’re embellishing baby shoes, wedding shoes, coordinated team shoes or even shoes for yourself, this is a great way to personalize footwear. The easiest way to do so is with a pair of canvas shoes and fabric paint. Fabric paint is a form of acrylic paint that is specially formulated to withstand the rigors of wear. Before you begin, be sure to read the directions on the packaging—some paints must be heat-set with an iron. Once you’re clear on the directions, apply the paint to your shoes with a brush, stencil or stamp for your desired shape. For this pair of polka-dotted shoes, we used the end of a wooden dowel to get the round polka dot shape.
5 MORE
Stylish Gifts WITH FABRIC PAINT
Experiment with Stamps IF FREE-FORM FABRIC PAINTING SOUNDS INTIMIDATING, THERE ARE MANY NATURAL STAMPS YOU CAN FIND AROUND YOUR HOME. VEGETABLES. A cut of cabbage makes a rose pattern, an ear of corn creates a repeating dot pattern and a halved bell pepper looks like a three-leaf clover. EVERYDAY ITEMS. Try a pencil eraser for small polka dots, or a pvc pipe for a ring. Combine items to create patterns, such as a bundle of seven pencils for a simple flower, or a length of twine wrapped around a small block of wood for a line pattern. CUSTOM STAMPS. If you want to create your own stamp, cut a potato in half, then draw a design on the face of the flesh. Use a paring knife to cut out the shape, with at least a ¼” shelf. Then simply paint and use your stamp. CHILDREN’S TOYS. Every small item will create a unique impression. Try toy trucks for wheel lines, or dip magnetic alphabet letters in your fabric paint. You could also use doll hair as a paint brush.
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1. Monogrammed baby onesie 2. Stamped handkerchief 3. Matching team t-shirts 4. Patterned tie 5. Denim jacket embellishments
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STYLE
Easy, Stylish Adornments Make a chic statement with these simple-to-create statement necklaces. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
DIY JEWELRY HAS COME A LONG WAY since candy chokers and macaroni necklaces. With myriad bead, fitting and pendant options now commonly available at general craft stores, you can create a truly stunning and attractive accessory with little to no experience.
EASY STYLES FOR BEGINNERS CRAFTY CHIC Go the natural-modern route and opt for leather cording and wooden baubles for your necklace. Get creative and paint accents onto their simple surfaces for a touch of artsy flair. PENDANT PERFECT You can find finished chains at most craft stores, meaning you don’t have to worry about attaching hooks or closures, so you can skip straight to a big bold pendant or an eye-catching single flourish. Depending on the material, you can adhere by sewing, soldering or bonding it to the chain with an all-surface glue like E600. A SHOW RIBBON Get creative with your materials—try using ribbon, silk cording or cotton rope for your necklace. Just be sure to find beads with larger holes. These necklaces also look great without a traditional closure—just tie the ends into bows for a stylish looks from front to back. DIP DYED DARLINGS Try making a necklace without any kind of beading at all! Just source an interesting cording, from nautical ropes to braided cotton. Then use fabric dye in any of a variety of ways, from dipping the whole necklace to simply dying separate strands to achieve different effects.
Upcycled Style Don’t be afraid to transform an old piece of jewelry into something fresh and fun. Try painting or stamping over larger pieces, or embellish an old necklace with new beads or ribbon.
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BIB BEAUTIES Bib style necklaces featured large unique pieces of fabric or trim in lieu of traditional beads, gems or pendants. You can make one by selecting a piece of decorative lace and trimming the shape to enhance the details. Then simply attach chains at either side, keeping the length short so the fabric portion hits right on the top of the chest. Try this technique with fine handmade materials, such as sari silks, embroidered panels and intricate weavings.
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THE BEGINNER’S
TOOLBOX Our options use minimal hardware and rely on tie closures to keep things effortless and easy. If you’re looking to up your tie-or-knot closures game to take jewelry making to the next level, the following are your basic necessities: JUMP RINGS These round circles of jewelry wire are used to connect together two wire parts; for example, attaching a clasp to a necklace chain or one bead wire to another. PINS You’ll want straight pins, which can be wrapped, twisted or manipulated around beads. And you’ll also need head pins, which are straight pins with one large flat end that prevents the bead from passing all the way through; these are great for beads and findings that drop down from a design rather than through it. PLIERS Round-nose pliers will help form round rings used in all sorts of applications, from fastening together hardware to creating loops for custom chains. Chain-nose pliers are similar to roundnose pliers, except they’re flat on the inside, allowing better grip for grasping wire or opening and closing jump rings. WIRE CUTTERS This tool allows you to trim chain to size, cut the pins used to hold hardware and fasteners in place and clip stringing wire, as well. CRIMPERS This handhold tool crimps shut metal beads and tubes, which help to secure clasps and close off the ends of beading wire. CLASPS Whether they are hooks and catches, claws and rings, toggles or screw-shut barrels, these are the closures that finish off your creations.
••tip •• During the design and creation process, stop every once in a while and model the necklace in a mirror to ensure everything falls and lands where you want it.
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STYLE
••tip •• Try dyeing a plain white item to get the exact color you want. You also can experiment with tie-dye or indigo dyeing to create interesting patterns and effects.
It’s a Wrap Upcycle old T-shirts into unique and stylish scarves. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
THESE DAYS, DIY ISN’T JUST FOR CRAFTY OBJECTS AND FUN RECIPES. Clever creative types are getting into the fashion world and proving that you don’t even need to know how to sew to create a runway-ready look. These two projects make good use of old T-shirts—and without a single stitch or push of a sewing machine pedal, you can create a stunning stylish statement.
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TWO-TONE COTTON ROPE
INFINITY
SCARF
MATERIALS: AN OLD COTTON T-SHIRT OR TWO IN YOUR DESIRED COLORS (PLAIN SHIRTS ARE BEST) SCISSORS DIRECTIONS:
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Lay your shirt out flat on a work surface. Be sure to smooth out any wrinkles and have the seams lay as flat as possible. Cut off the bottom hem from the shirt and discard. Working from the bottom of the shirt up toward the armholes, cut the shirt into 1-inch strips. Be sure to leave the side hems intact, because your strips will actually be loops that comprise the infinity cords.
4
Gather your strips into a pile so you can see how thick your scarf is shaping up to be. Continue cutting until you reach the armholes or until your scarf seems thick enough.
5
Gather together the loops into one thick loop, and pull the strips apart, stretching the cotton out gently; this encourages the material to roll inward and start to look like finished tubes.
6
Finish off the scarf by taking one strip and cutting it open to create a rope. With your loops all gathered in one hand, use the thumb of that hand to hold down one end of the rope and wrap the rope around the gathered loops. Cut the rope when the tied section is long enough for your liking. Hide the loose end by tucking it under several of the rope strands.
SCRIPTED SCARF MATERIALS: AN EXTRA LONG SHIRT, SHIRTDRESS OR MAXI DRESS THICK-TIP OR CHISEL-TIP INDELIBLE INK PEN OR PERMANENT MARKER SCISSORS
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Get Creative!
• Use fabric paint to add a few strokes of bold abstract color to your shirt fabric before you make your scarf.
DIRECTIONS: Cut the bottom hem of the shirt/dress to your desired thickness. The average scarf is about 1-foot wide; a pashmina is twice that.
• Create a pattern using stamp and fabric paint.
Cut off one side hem to open up the scarf, or you can leave it intact if you want an infinity scarf.
• Create a fringe scarf by cutting perpendicularly all down one or both long edges of the fabric.
3
Lay the material flat on a work surface, smoothing out the wrinkles. You may want to protect your work surface by putting down a protective sheet of paper or plastic in case the ink bleeds through.
4
Use the pen or marker to write out text. Choose something meaningful to your recipient; they can be words from a poem, song lyrics or quotes from a movie they love. Cursive letters look great, but you can write your phrases however you like—just be sure to use thick even strokes.
• Test out a few sweater materials for different looks. A wool sweater could create a cold-weather scarf, whereas an angora sweater might make a fun frilly scarf.
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STYLE
The Bee's
Knees
Embroider buttons that will make your friends and family buzz with joy. BY ELIZABETH FALKENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHIL WILKINS ILLUSTRATIONS BY CHARLOTTE FARMER AND KUO KANG CHEN
THERE'S NO BETTER FEELING THAN "when people love and wear what you create," writes Irem Yazici. In her book Tiny Stitches: Buttons, Badges, and Brooches to Embroider, Yazici catalogs projects that use embroidery to create wearable pieces. With an embroidered pin or button, you can bestow the longlasting gift of a versatile accessory.
BUMBLEBEE BUTTON WHAT YOU’LL NEED: TRANSFER AND MARKING TOOLS MUSTARD OR ORANGE FABRIC HOOP NEEDLE SCISSORS CABOCHON PAPER (11OZ / 300G) BUTTON MAKING KIT GLUE 3 STRANDS ULTRA-DARK BEAVER GRAY THREAD 2 STRANDS TOPAZ THREAD
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3 STRANDS LIGHT YELLOW BEIGE THREAD
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WHAT YOU’LL DO: Copy the bumblebee motif onto the piece of fabric, then place into an embroidery hoop. With two strands of ultra-dark beaver gray, stitch the head using satin stitch (see below). Continue stitching the body in the same way, leaving a gap between the head, middle and lower body.
IN LOVE
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USE YOUR EMBROIDERY SKILLS TO MAKE THESE OTHER STYLISH GIFTS.
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With satin stitch, finish the body using two strands of topaz to fill the gaps. Create the wings using straight stitch with three strands of light yellow beige.
5
1. BUTTONED BACKPACK. Design several different buttons, and then sew them onto a backpack to personalize it. 2. SHIRT POCKET LOGO. On a pocket-tee or oxford shirt, embroider a small shape onto the pocket to provide a bit of interest. 3 3. DREAM SHOES. Add color to a pair of canvas sneakers with floral patterns on the sides and tongue.
For the legs, work small straight stitches using one strand of ultra-dark beaver gray.
2
4. MONOGRAMMED NECKTIE. Personalize a necktie with small monogrammed initials on the front.
Use the button making kit to turn your bumble bee into a button.
5. GROCERY TOTE. Give your reusable canvas tote bag a stylish refresh with embroidered fruits and vegetables.
Straight Stitch. This is a simple embroidery stitch that is a straight, long stitch used individually or in groups to make patterns. To make a straight stitch, bring your needle up through the fabric at your desired starting point and then insert the needle into the fabric at the opposite end of the stitch.
Satin Stitch. This is an easy filling stitch that is used to fill in smaller areas in your pattern. To make a satin stitch, bring your needle up through the fabric at your desired starting point and then insert your needle again across from the original entry point. Then, bring your needle up on the side of the original entry point and go back down on the opposite side. The stitches should be close together, with no fabric showing between them.
Tiny Stitches: Buttons, Badges, and Brooches to Embroider by Irem Yazici, published by Roost Books, Š 2018; roostbooks.com.
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STYLE
To Dye
For
Create your own hand-dyed pieces with this time-tested Japanese technique. BY LAUREN HOFER PHOTOGRAPHY BY GAVIN KINGCOME
VIBRANT BLUES AND UNIQUE PATTERNS, are the trademarks of indigo dyeing. In her book, Shibori, author Nicola Gouldsmith shares age-old Japanese methods that will easily accentuate your modern-day life. Whether you dip a set of aprons for your friends, a pillow case for your spouse or a shawl for a relative, this technique will open up a whole new range of DIY gifts.
e e
AN UNLIKELY TOOL The shibori itajime method utilizes two blocks of wood to create an almost geometric indigo pattern. After choosing your natural-fiber fabric, fold it into vertical pleats and then again horizontally until the remaining rectangle is slightly larger than the blocks of wood. Sandwich the folded fabric between the two blocks with the pleats exposed and bind them together tightly with string. “Because the fabric is folded many times to fit the size of the clamp, this is a great way to dye quite large pieces of fabric easily,” Gouldsmith writes.
PREPARING THE DYE
1
WHAT YOU’LL NEED: 1 OZ (25 G) INDIGO POWDER SPECTRALITE 1 ¼ PT (600 ML) WARM WATER LARGE GLASS JAR WITH A SCREW-TOP LID TEASPOON 5 ¼ OZ (150 G) SODA ASH JUG LITMUS PAPER LARGE PAN WITH A LID RUBBER GLOVES
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SOAK, DIP & RINSE Place the clamped fabric in clean, cold water for several hours (weigh it down so it doesn’t float), then squeeze out as much water as possible. With gloves on, dip the still sandwiched fabric into the pre-prepared indigo vat. Be sure to dip gently and only hold the fabric and wood in the dye for a few moments, then allow the exposed edges of the fabric to air to develop the dye. While it’s still tied, rinse the wood and fabric in cold water several times. During the final rinse, add vinegar to the water before cutting the string to behold your one-ofa-kind pattern.
WHAT YOU’LL DO: In the jar, stir 1 oz indigo powder with 3 teaspoons spectralite and enough warm water to create a paste. Then, mix in 200 ml warm water. In a separate jug, mix 5 ¼ oz of soda ash with 400 ml warm water. Add the soda ash solution to the indigo solution in small amounts. As you go, check the pH level with litmus paper until the solution has the correct pH. For animal fabrics (wool or silk) the pH should be around 9; for plant fabrics (cotton or linen) the pH should be 11.
4 5
Cover the solution and leave it in a warm place for 30-40 minutes while it develops. While you wait, fill a large pan 2/3 full of water and add 1 teaspoon spectralite. Add the indigo solution to the pan by lowering the jar into the vat. Make sure you don’t pour the indigo and cause oxygen to enter the mixture. Leave the vat covered in a warm location for an hour. When the surface is covered in metallic blue bubbles, you are ready to dip your fabric.
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••
tip ••
When you dip the fabric, do it gently. You’re aiming to disturb the surface as little as possible.
Shibori: The Art of Indigo Dyeing by Nicola Gouldsmith, published by CICO Books, © 2018; rylandpeters.com.
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STYLE
Present Perfect Why not pair custom gifts with tailor-made wrapping paper? Try these one-of-akind ways to create an engaging presentation. BY JICKIE TORRES
Go au naturale and use something from the garden or the sea to trace a pattern. Here we traced seashells to give this earthy paper a coastalchic look.
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Did you know that you can make a custom stamp out of everyday food items? Slice a potato in half and carve out a simple design. Here we used a big marshmallow with notches cut to mimic petals. Dip your stamp in acrylic paint, dab off any excess and stamp away. Make it personal with a monogram stamp. You can adorn it further by using a few dabs of paint as an accent color. Wax poetic by handwriting large script over basic wrapping paper. Choose a poem or song that reflects the occasion well. You don’t need a graphic design degree to make a fun typographical print. Just use a rubber stamp in the perfect phrase to capture a fun illustrative look. Make it iconic by embellishing simple wrapping paper with a single bold motif. This pretty polka dot is updated to express the recipient’s love of nature with a deer drawing. Make it easy by printing out a clipart sample from the Internet, tracing hard over your paper to leave the outline then filling it in with a marker.
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FAMILY
LEARN HOW TO MAKE DIY PRESENTS for all ages. These family-friendly ideas have wow-factor. From personalized silhouette art to board games custom designed with their own family fun facts, these ideas are easy, impressive and sure to touch their hearts.
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FAMILY
Dandy Gift some easy-to-make handbags so your friends and family can carry anything in style. BY ASHLEY BURNETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDY CRAWFORD
LEARNING TO SEW OFTEN SEEMS LIKE A DIFFICULT TASK, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are tons of great presents you can make with just a few simple stitches. These bags from Jane Bull’s Get Set, Sew are one example of a quick sewing project that makes for a great holiday or birthday present. You can apply the skills you learn to many other projects, as well—not to mention all the handmade goodies you can put inside!
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tip ••
Make this gift even more personal by customizing the size to match the activities your recipient loves. Sew a giant bag for your sports-loving son, or a tiny bag for a crafty friend to hold spools of thread. The instructions are the same, no matter the size.
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1/2A
2B
HANDY BAGS MATERIALS: LARGE BAG: 20" X 12 ½" (50 X 31 CM) COTTON FABRIC RIBBON 32" (80 CM) LONG MEDIUM BAG: 16" X 10 ½" (40 X 27 CM) COTTON FABRIC RIBBON 25" (64 CM) LONG SMALL BAG: 14" X 7 ½" (35 X 19 CM) COTTON FABRIC RIBBON 23" (58 CM) LONG SEWING ESSENTIALS 4A DIERCTIONS: SEW THE BAG.
• Turn over the top edge ⅜" (10 mm) and press it flat. • Fold the fabric in half with the right sides together and pin it, matching the edges. • Use a ½" (12 mm) seam allowance. • Sew along the two marked sides, pivoting the needle at the corner. Stop the stitching here. Reverse stitch to finish. Press the seam flat. MAKE A CASING.
• Fold over the top edge ¾" (2 cm) and pin it in place. • Cut off the corners, but don’t cut the stitches. • Sew the folded edge down. • NOTE: To allow room for the bag to fit under the needle, remove the extension table from your sewing machine.
4B
TURN RIGHT SIDE OUT.
• Turn the bag right-side out. Fasten a safety pin to one edge of the ribbon. • The ribbon goes all the way through the casing. INSERT THE RIBBON.
• Place the pin at the opening of the casing. • Work the pin through the casing. • Bring the pin and ribbon all the way around and out the other side. • Even out the two ends of the ribbon and remove the pin.
QUICK-AND-EASY SEWING PROJECTS PILLOWCASES Measure your pillow, then add 1 ¼" to all sides and double the length (for a 12" x 12" pillow, cut your fabric to 13 ¼" x 26 ½"). Fold the fabric in half with the right sides together and sew around the edge with a ⅝" seam allowance. Leave a 2" gap in the seam. Use the gap to turn the case inside out, then stuff the pillow and sew the gap closed by hand.
ORNAMENTS
Jane Bull’s Get Set, Sew: by Jane Bull, published by Dorling Kindersley Limited, © 2015; dk.com.
Sew over a piece of felt with a contrasting thread to create a random stitch pattern. Cut out a circle or square shape from the felt, then cut out a second identical piece and sew it onto the back, leaving a small gap. Fill the gap with soft filling, attach a ribbon loop and button and then sew the gap closed by hand. fall / winter
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FAMILY
Personalized Stencil Art Old flea-market finds and everyday items can be the perfect canvas for your custom wall art presents. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
GIVING THE GIFT OF ART IS A SPECIAL THING— especially when you create it yourself! Stencils are a wonderful way to get a polished look without the art school degree. Best yet, by using a vintage item as the start of your project, you can create a one-of-a-kind showpiece.
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tip ••
Your stencil needs to be well adhered and flat to your surface to ensure clean crisp lines. Use a low-tack spray adhesive on the back of the stencil before you apply it to your surface for good even contact.
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DIFFERENT WAYS TO CREATE STENCIL ART SELFIE SILHOUETTES Looking for a new use for mismatched pieces of vintage china? Transform them from table dressing to wall art by spray-painting stencils on them for a modern-vintage twist. Be sure to prep the china first with an indoor-outdoor spray primer so the paint will adhere to the glazed finish. You can make silhouette stencils by tracing a photo or having your subject cast a shadow onto a piece of paper taped to the wall. PERSONAL WORDS Create personalized wall art by reverse stenciling over one of your less-thanloved paintings—or you can find tons of options at thrift stores too. Cut out letters to spell out a family surname or a meaningful phrase, placing the letters over the painting with spray adhesive. Spray a coat of primer followed by a coat of white over the entire canvas. Then carefully peel off your letters. The color beneath will show through, perfectly accenting your poetry.
PAINT METHOD There are two ways you can apply paint to your stencil: spray the color on or stipple it on with a brush. Spraying works best with larger surface areas, because you can cover more space quickly. Small intricate stencils work best with the stippling technique, which gives you more control over the amount of paint being used. Either way, don’t be afraid to use several coats to achieve your desired results.
HOW TO MAKE AND USE A STENCIL
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Decide on your image. Then using a pencil, trace the outline of the image onto a sheet of paper—the thicker the better. Gather together a cutting mat and craft blade and carefully cut along the lines to release the image. When stenciling, you can either choose to use the released image as your stencil (applying your paint all around it), or you can use the remaining border of your paper as your stencil to fill in the shape.
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PICK YOUR
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MONOGRAM IT Search online for interesting fonts for letters, then enlarge and print them out to be stenciled onto anything from mirrors to woodcuts to frame art papers. Rather than painting on the stencil, try cutting it out from pretty patterned paper then pasting it onto your surface for a more graphic look.
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FAMILY
Snaps Put together an eye-catching way to display photos that the whole family can enjoy. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JICKIE TORRES
THINK BEYOND THE PHOTO TREE when it comes to giving your loved ones a gift that celebrates family memories with fun photos. In the same way that you choose a frame to match the recipient’s personality and tastes, you can put together a few fresh ways to give the gift of photos that can become true conversation pieces in a home.
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tip ••
Don’t be afraid to take an old photo to a copy store to get it enlarged. You can even print a large poster-sized photo on the plotter for just a few dollars.
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THINKING OUT OF THE
PHOTO BOX MAKE A PHOTO WREATH With little else than a wire craft wreath form, a long strip of fabric and a few clothespins, you can create a crafty and charming display that works for all seasons. Simply wrap the fabric around the form until the wreath is covered, and then secure in place with glue and a hot glue gun. Tuck your photos into the folds and creases created by the fabric, securing them with mini clothespins if needed. CREATE A PICTURE TERRARIUM Transform an old canning jar into a standalone photo frame. Just pop a picture inside and press toward the glass for a look that is part snow globe and part terrarium. HANG A PHOTO RIBBON Gather photos for three simple and lightweight matching frames. Adhere the frames to a wide-width ribbon—try burlap or grosgrains for a sturdier display. Then simply mount each frame to a long length of ribbon (about 2–3 feet works best) using a hot glue gun and glue. Add a decorative cut to the bottom end and curve the top end into a loop to form a spot to hang the ribbon on the wall. FASHION A MODERN PHOTO MOBILE Find a branch about 1–2 feet long and tie a ribbon along the top to form a hanger. Suspend photos from the bottom by punching holes into the top of the photo and threading pretty ribbon through to tie to the branches. Make the photos double-sided if you want to hang the branch from the ceiling instead of mounting it on a wall.
PICTURE HUNTING
SURPRISING A FAMILY WITH FRAMED PHOTOS CAN BE TOUGH IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE TO GO TO GET YOUR PHOTOS ON THE SLY. HERE ARE SOME SURPRISINGLY EASY WAYS TO SOURCE SOME SHOTS.
You can order prints from Instagram posts by using sites like Social Print Studio or Shutterfly to import shots you can grab from the web. FACEBOOK
Save photos from a loved one’s album directly to your desktop. Just make sure the photos are print quality: Do a test print on your printer, and if it prints out blurry or pixelated, it’s probably not big enough. YOUR CAMERA PHONE
Your smart phone can produce shots that print out much bigger than you think—most can create prints at least 5" x 7", and some as big as 8" x 10".
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FAMILY
All Hands onDeck Give away an extra serving of family fun with these icebreaker cards. WRITTEN BY HANNAH ROBERTS STYLED BY JICKIE TORRES AND VICTORIA VAN VLEAR PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A GIFT that’s friendly for the whole family, put together this clever project and surprise everyone with a wealth of entertaining topics at the next holiday or family reunion. Whether the family bonding involves art museums or ball games, tap into some favorite trivia and deal everyone a good time.
CONVERSATION STARTER CARDS MATERIALS: PATTERNED CARD STOCK OR A DECK OF PLAYING CARDS (13 PIECES OF CARD STOCK WILL MAKE ONE 52-CARD DECK) DESKTOP PRINTER SCISSORS GLUE STICK OR TAPE PEN RULER
GET CREATIVE If you have a color printer, use different text colors to make color-coded categories for questions. Print a digital copy of a family photo to use as a more personal card-back design. If your printer supports cover stock (approximately 60-lb paper), avoid printer paper all together. Print the questions and the background designs directly onto pieces of cover stock, and glue the two pieces together for extra-thick cards. For long-lasting durability, use a laminating machine to coat your cards and keep them looking nice for years to come. Adapt this idea for a traditional deck of cards, using pictures of different family members to represent different face cards. Make sure Mom and Grandma get to be Queens! Get the kids involved by helping them to make and decorate their own set of handmade flashcards.
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DIRECTIONS:
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Type up and print icebreaker questions onto printer paper (see sidebar for ideas), leaving enough blank space around each question to create a 2 ½ x 3 ½-inch rectangle. Use your word processor’s digital ruler to estimate, or include to 4 questions per landscape-oriented page.
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If using card stock, cut it into card-sized pieces. You can trace around a standard playing card for a rounded-edge template, or use a ruler to measure and cut out 2 ½ x 3 ½-inch rectangles.
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Use the rectangle as a template, tracing around it for the printed questions. Cut out the paper rectangle.
4
Glue or tape the paper question onto the back of the card stock or playing card, trimming any excess. Repeat until you’ve made as many cards as you want in your deck.
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ASK GOOD QUESTIONS The best part of this project is that you can completely customize the questions to fit your family. Find topics you all can enjoy— anything from Disney movies to types of cars—and come up with either a set of trivia questions or a chance for everyone to talk about their favorites. This also can relate directly to your family’s experiences, with prompts like “Best Story About Grandpa” or “Craziest Family Fashion Statement.” Lead your family down memory lane by challenging them to outdo one another with the best or most hilarious recollections. For the more imaginative bunch, throw together a set of hypothetical questions for a conversation that can be either heartfelt or hilarious. Give everyone a chance to describe a dream house or job. Find out what kind of dinosaur everyone would want as a pet, or where each would go with a time machine.
BUY A PLAYING CARD CASE (available for around $2 online or at some craft stores) and decorate it with letter stickers that spell out the name of your family or the gift recipient.
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FAMILY
P laydough
Safe, nontoxic and so easy to make, this is a gift the whole family can enjoy. BY JICKIE TORRES
IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE such a classic element of childhood nostalgia is so simple to re-create at home. With these common ingredients and quick directions, you may never buy store-bought again—except for old time’s sake.
HOMEMADE PLAYDOUGH INGREDIENTS:
1 CUP WATER FOOD COLORING OF YOUR CHOICE 4 CUPS FLOUR 2–4 TABLESPOONS VEGETABLE OIL 1 ½ CUPS SALT DIRECTIONS:
In a large mixing bowl, add the water. Add 10–15 drops of food coloring and stir well. Add the dry ingredients and begin to blend the mixture. Add 2–4 tablespoons oil and continue to mix. If the mixture is too crumbly, add more oil until it comes together in the right consistency.
EDIBLE PLAYDOUGH INGREDIENTS:
½ CUP WATER 1 TABLESPOON VEGETABLE OIL
qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq GIVE THE GIFT OF FUN In many instances, making playdough is as fun as playing with it. Consider gifting a Make-Your-Own Playdough kit instead of the finished product. Include all the ingredients in separate containers, gift a decorative bowl and don’t forget the individual storage containers. Print or write out a simple “recipe” card, and the family will be all set to create!
1 ½ CUP FLOUR ½ CUP SUGAR 1 PACKET POWDER MIX DRINK, IN YOUR DESIRED FLAVOR/COLOR DIRECTIONS:
Mix together the water and oil. Microwave on HIGH for about 2 minutes. Remove and add the sugar and drink powder. Stir well to dissolve. Sift in 1 cup flour a little bit at a time, mixing well as you go to avoid lumps. Continue to add more flour a little at a time, blending and kneading the flour until the dough is no longer sticky.
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Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
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••tip•• Add glitter to your dough for extra sparkle. ••
••tip•• Don’t forget to plan for individual containers for each color. Dress up plain plastic storage items with washi tape labels, or use a set of small canning jars. ••
••tip•• You can scent your playdough by simmering herbs in the water., Think cinnamon sticks, star anise or cloves. ••
••tip•• Make your playdough glow in the dark! Just add glow-inthe-dark paint (try Glow Away acrylic by P laid) during the kneading process. ••
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FAMILY
Apply the technique of brush lettering to your written gifts. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR
Wonders
ILLUSTRATIONS AND ALPHABET BY AMY LATTA
BEAUTIFUL PENMANSHIP CAN MAKE SUCH A DIFFERENCE ON A GIFT TAG, birthday card or any other hand-lettered gift. Brush lettering is a calligraphy technique that uses a brush pen to create thin and thick lines. “It requires a good bit of practice and repetition before you get the hang of it, but once you do, it will get in your muscle memory,” writes Amy Latta, author of Express Yourself: A Hand Lettering Workbook for Kids. You can get the same look without a brush pen, but it’s easiest to use the right tool. Here’s how you can do it yourself.
Downward Stroke Upward Stroke THE BASICS OF BRUSH LETTERING The brush pen has a different shape than a regular pen. “Unlike a regular bullet-tip marker, a brush tip is flexible and is meant to act like a paintbrush,” Latta writes. The basic technique is quite simple: When you make a downward stroke, press harder on the pen to create a wide, bold line. When you make an upward stroke, lighten the pressure to create a thin line. All the strokes in your brush lettering should follow this principle. After you get more comfortable with the technique, you can add fancy flourishes and experiment with your font.
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1. HOMEMADE BIRTHDAY CARDS 2. FAMILY LAST NAME SIGN 3. PERSONALIZED NOTEBOOK 4. FAMILY GROWTH CHART 5. BEDROOM WALL ART 6. PERSONALIZED DESK CALENDAR 7. CHORE CHART 8. FATHER’S DAY HANDPRINT SIGN 9. LUNCH BOX LOVE NOTES 10. LOCKER LABELS
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10 FAMILY-FRIENDLY GIFTS WITH BRUSH LETTERING
Express Yourself: A Hand Lettering Workbook for Kids by Amy Latta, published by Page Street Publishing, © 2018; pagestreetpublishing.com.
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LITTLE ROOM SIGN WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
WOOD SIGN DRILL AND WOOD DRILL BIT PAINT OF CHOICE (USED HERE: AMERICANA DÉCOR CHALKY FINISH IN VINTAGE) FOAM PAINT BRUSH PENCIL BRUSH PEN PRINTER OR LINED PAPER RIBBON WHAT YOU’LL DO:
1. Mark the wood sign for two
holes where you’ll thread the ribbon. Drill the holes and sand if needed.
2. Paint the sign in your desired color and let dry.
3. In the meantime, practice
the words you’ll write on a separate piece of paper.
4. On the front of the sign, mark the basic shapes of the letters with a pencil to get the placement you want.
5. Use the brush pen to write
over the pencil marks in the script font and add any doodles or drawings as desired.
6. Loop the ribbon from front to back through one of the holes, then back to front through the second hole. Cut the ribbon to the length you want and tie it off with knots in the front.
•• tip •• The traditional brush lettering font is a script, but you don’t have to connect all your letters at once, or even use a single stroke to create each letter. Lift your pen as you would for a print script to reset your hand—this will make it easier.
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FAMILY
Tied up with strings, lace, washi tape or anything else, brown paper is a one-stop-shop for your giftwrapping. WRITTEN BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR STYLING BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR AND JICKIE TORRES PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY DEKUYPER
IT’S EASY TO COLLECT A CLOSET FULL OF WRAPPING PAPER— red and green for Christmas, golf patterns for men, Dora the Explorer for the toddler and floral patterns for girlfriends. But every occasion doesn’t require you to purchase a new print. Instead, start with simple brown wrapping as the base, then embellish the package with glittery, lacy, manly or floral accents for a package that pops while perfectly complementing your recipient.
A sprig of leaves and holly Whether real or a glittery version from the craft store, it will add a bright pop to any package.
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tip ••
You can find brown wrapping at your local craft store, but you can also find it in the packaging section of many office supply stores. Alternatively, get creative and recycle a few brown shopping bags from the grocery store.
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Miniature bunting It’s easy to make and will brighten any package. Simply cut out some diamond shapes from patterned paper and tape them together around a piece of string.
You don’t even have to wrap small jewelry boxes. Simply tape them closed and add an embellishment to the top. Use a vintage brooch or hair clip, or simply create your own design.
Use washi tape With it, you can create a custom motif on the front of the box. You could even spell out the recipient’s initial in place of a gift tag.
Add lace for a feminine touch. On this package, a pale yellow ribbon adds extra color while creating a point of focus for the package.
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