Ucreate

Crochet Cupcake Beanie Tutorial by All Things Bright and Beautiful

2012-01-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be here on Ucreate today. My name is Andrea and I started All Things Bright and Beautiful a couple of years ago with the hope of one day being featured on Ucreate—and here I am!

I’m a stay-at-home mom and spend a good amount of my time each day crocheting projects that are bright, modern, and trendy. Some of those projects include blankets, beanies, and toys. I really want to share my love for crochet with you and get you excited about how fun and easy it is.

So here is a tutorial of a cupcake beanie I made my little girl for her cupcake-themed 1st birthday party.

Cupcake Beanie Tutorial

Size: 12 months

Skill Level: Easy

Materials Needed:

H hook (5.00 mm)

one skein of medium worsted yarn in brown (I used Lion Brand Yarn)

one skein of medium worsted yarn in pink (I used Lion Brand Yarn)

stitch marker

scissors

yarn needle

Abbreviations:

ch: chain

sc: single crochet

dc: double crochet

st: stitch

sc2tog: single crochet 2 together

Frosting

Note: You will be working in a round on the beanie, so do not turn your work or join rounds.

Row 1: magic ring 4. (4) (This link explains how to do a magic ring.)

Row 2: sc 2 st in each sc around. (8)

Row 3: 2 sc in first st, sc in next st repeat around. (12)

Row 4: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 2 sts repeat around. (16)

Row 5: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 3 sts repeat around. (20)

Row 6: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 4 sts repeat around. (24)

Row 7: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 5 sts repeat around. (28)

Row 8: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 6 sts repeat around. (32)

Row 9: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 7 sts repeat around. (36)

Row 10: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 8 sts repeat around. (40)

Row 11: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 9 sts repeat around. (44)

Row 12: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 10 sts repeat around. (48)

Row13: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 11 sts repeat around. (52)

Row 14: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 12 sts repeat around. (56)

Row 15: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 13 sts repeat around. (60)

Row 16-18: sc in every stitch around.

Row 19(edging): working in the outside loop only, skip 2 sts, 5 dc in st, skip 2 sts, sc, skip 2 sts, 5 dc in st, repeat around and slip stitch to beginning stitch. Fasten off and leave long tail for sewing to bottom part.

Note: you can make the frosting part smaller or bigger by taking out the last couple of rows, or make it bigger by adding rows at the end and following in the same pattern (sc in first 14, 2 sc in next st, etc).

Note: You will be turning your work and then sewing together at the end.

Bottom of Cupcake Hat

Row 1: Ch. 60.

Row 2: Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each st across.

Row 3: ch 3, dc in front post, dc in back post repeat until end of row. Ch 3, turn work. (This explains how to crochet front and back posts.)

Rows 4-6: repeat row 3. Fasten off and leave long tail for sewing sides together.

Note: To make this hat smaller or bigger, simply chain less or more at the beginning and follow the rest of the pattern.

Sewing Together

Once you have both top and bottom finished sew the bottom piece to the frosting top. Sew around evenly through the bottom inside loop of the frosting part to the top of the bottom of the cupcake hat.

Note: You can add sprinkles by sewing different colors into the top part of the beanie, or add a cherry on top.

Cherry

Row 1: magic ring 4.

Row 2: 2 single crochet in each one around. (8)

Row 3: 2 single crochet in 1st st, single crochet in next, repeat around. (12)

Row 4-6: sc in each st around.

Row 7: sc2tog, sc in next repeat around (8)

Row 8: sc2tog, sc in next, repeat around (4)

Fasten off and leave long tail to sew closed and chain 5 for a stem.

Check out my blog for more beanie and blanket patterns. You can also find me on Pinterest!

If you have any questions about crochet I would be happy to answer them.

Thanks Kari for having me!

LOVE Pillow Tutorial

2012-01-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

Our very first pillow for The Pillow of The Month Series is…

…this LOVE throw pillow cover! Grab your favorite fabric, a contrasting color of felt, and create this super simple pillow!

Perfect for Valentine’s Day décor and you can even leave it up all-year round if you’d like!

Supply List

One Yard of Fabric

One Square of Felt (4 for $1.00 at craft store)

DMC floss (I used white or you could

use your machine if you prefer)

Sewing machine thread

LOVE Template…(click image and print)

{at the last minute I decided to cut out (free hand) a heart instead of an “O”…your choice!}

Cut, center, and stitch {hand-stitch or machine stitch} felt template on 20”x20” piece.

Cut corners off, flip right side out, and make a point in corners.

Iron seams and place cover on pillow…and you’re done!!

If you make this pillow feel free to link to your blog or Pinterest in the comments below! I would love to see it!

Introducing Ucreate’s Pillow of the Month Series…

2012-01-27T01:31:00.000-07:00

One of my very favorite parts of my job is creating with…

YOU!

I’m excited to announce the Pillow of the month Series for 2012.

How it works…it’s simple!

1. Grab an 18x18 pillow form from your local craft store (make sure to use their coupons!)…

2. Each month I will share one of my own free pillow cover tutorials.

3. Create your pillow cover…feel free to put your own spin on it, too!

4. Share it! Pin it to pinterest or post it on your blog and share your link in the comment section of the tutorial for that month…I can’t wait to see what “U” create!

These also make fun gifts! How cool would it be to give a new bride or friend a pillow with many different pillow covers to change throughout the year!

Happy Creating!

Ruffle Fabric Bed Skirt Tutorial by Little Cherry Blossoms

2012-01-26T08:41:00.001-07:00

I am super excited to share with you my Ruffled Crib Skirt Tutorial! My name is Carey and I blog over at Little Cherry Blossoms. I also have a Boutique on a cute Historic Street by the same name.

I love Kari and Becky, and all of their wonderful sharing of ideas. I am truly happy to be here. So, I am pretty much obsessed with crib bedding right now, and I am equally obsessed with Ruffled Fabric. Combining them to make a crib skirt is just bliss!

You will need: 27" x 51" Piece of Medium Weight Fabric like quilting cotton or muslin in a coordinating color to main fabric. I used a plain white piece of cotton muslin that I had on hand. Make sure that this piece has no stretch to it, as it will stretch out over time.

3 yards of 60" Fabric for skirt Coordinating color thread. Serger/sewing machine.

We used a pretty soft pink ruffle fabric for our skirt. I get my ruffle fabric from Mikey's fabric in LA. You can also find it online. Cut 5 pieces of fabric from the 3 yards that are each 19" in length. So you will have 5 equal pieces that are 60" x 19".

Make sure you cut as close as possible to the underside of the bottom ruffle, leaving yourself as much room as possible for sewing on the top. See above. So now you have 5 pieces in equal size. 2 of the pieces will form 2 sides, and 3 pieces will form the other 2 sides.

Take one piece and cut it exactly in half to form two pieces 30 x 19, and take those two pieces and attach them each to a 60 x 19 piece. You will now have 2 pieces 60 x 19, and 2 pieces 90 x 19. Those will form your two short sides and your two long sides.

Serge the short sides (19" sides) of your 60 x 19 and 90 x 19 fabric. This is optional with the ruffle fabric, because the sides are semi-finished (although we chose to do so), but with cotton you will need to either serge or roll the hem. With this ruffle fabric, there is no need to finish the bottom hem, but with cotton or other fabric, you will need to hem the bottom, either by serging or applying a rolled hem.

Do a running stitch along the tops of all 4 of your pieces.

Now all you need to do is attach the 4 sides to the main piece of fabric. Mark the center of your first piece, and pin both ends. Ruffle the fabric using the running stitch to gather the fabric. Make sure that your ruffles lay flat if you are using ruffle fabric. Also try to make the ruffles even throughout the length. Repeat this step with all 4 pieces.

See how the ruffles are even through out the length. Beautiful.

Here is a photo of 3 of the 4 sides attached.

Almost done.

All done!

A few things to note. My crib above is not a standard size, so the skirt appears a little big. Also, if you http://www.littlecherryblossoms.com/how-to-make-felt-rosette-headbands/choose you can make yours longer so that the fabric will drape onto the floor. We made ours 19 inches, but you could do up to 26 inches. Finish off your crib set with a selection of coordinating sheets, and blankets. We no longer use baby bumpers but there are plenty of other things to add to your nursery to make up for the bumper. A very special thanks to my friend Amanda for helping me with this tutorial. ( Those are her pretty hands that you see up there.)

Also, Little Cherry Blossoms hangs out on Facebook a lot, sharing super cute things that we find, and I would love to have you join in the conversation.

XO, Carey

Make sure to stop by Little Cherry Blossoms and find loads of inspiration from Carey! Check out her felt rosettes while you’re there…

Felt Rosette Tutorial

Thanks Carey!!

Crochet Heart Bobby Pins

2012-01-25T23:07:00.001-07:00

Grab snippets of yarn, your crochet hook, and create these darling bobby pins with Grateful Prayer and a Thankful Heart…

Crochet Heart Bobby Pins Tutorial

14 Days of Valentines

2012-01-25T01:17:00.001-07:00

Ashley from Mommy by Day Crafter by Night stopped by to show us her fun idea she’s doing for her husband this year for Valentine’s Day.

What a fantastic idea!

She is also giving you the free printables, too! Gotta ♥ Ashley!

Let me show you a few…

14 Days of Valentines

Oh, and while you’re there check out her…

Valentine Coupon Book (Free Printable)

21 Bakers Twine Tutorials

2012-01-21T18:10:00.001-07:00

Hello, Ucreate readers! I'm Linda, from burlap+blue, and I'm so excited to be here with you all today sharing a compilation of my very favorite tutorials using one of my favorite mediums-bakers twine!

As some of you who read my blog may know, I was honored to be a part of The Twinery's Design Team for 2011. One of the best parts of my partnership with The Twinery was seeing all of the creative ideas and projects using baker's twine. I've been saving some of my favorites, and am happy to share them with you all today!

image via The Twinery

Celebrate It

1. Cake Bunting from b.loved

2. Party Decor from burlap+blue

3. Kraft and Twine Save the Dates from The Sweetest Occasion

4. Twine-wrapped Milk Bottles from Whisker Graphics

5. Clothespin Drink Charms from Funkytime

6. Stamped Party Favors from Oh Happy Day

7. Heart and Twine Garland from The Twinery

8. patriotic pennant bunting from The Pleated Poppy

Wrap It

9. Rainbow Gift Wrap from The Twinery

10. Button Gift Wrap from Martha Stewart

11. Gift Tags and Free Printables from Grace Hester

12. Wrapping Inspiration from Lauren Elise Crafted

13. More Wrapping Inspiration from Simple Blueprint

14. Mini Pom Poms from Paper Treats

15. Homemade Spring Gift from Living Locurto

Gifts

16. Thanks a "latte" printable from eighteen25

17. Afternoon Tea Set from Martha Stewart

18. Mini Mason Jar Hot Chocolate from Two Shades of Pink

19. Homemade Granola from Simple Blueprint

20. Crayon Heart Valentines from Whipperberry

21. Birdfeeders from eighteen25

Thank you, Kari, for the honor of being here today! Thanks, also, to YOU for letting me spend a few minutes sharing with you all today. For more craft inspiration, tutorials and more, please visit me over at burlap+blue!

Country Ruffle Top Tutorial

2012-01-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

“Oh. My. Word.” is exactly what I said out loud when I saw this adorable top by Shwin & Shwin…

Country Ruffle Top Tutorial

…love the sleeves, buttons, ruffles, everything!

DIY Heart Cutout Dress

2012-01-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

Stacie at Stars for Streetlights stopped by to share one of her latest projects…

DIY Heart Cutout

Darling dress and I love those shoes, too!

Quilted Tablet Cover Tutorial by Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom

2012-01-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! My name is Jamie and I have a blog called Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom. I am so thrilled to have the chance to be a guest post at one of my favorite blogs, Ucreate!

Here is a little bit about me: I am a Central Texas based stay at home mom of 2 (5 year old girl and 6 year old boy.) I love all things crafty; cooking, sewing , diy projects and kids crafts. I also love to read and spend time with my family. When not focused on my children or hubby, I can be found either in my craft room sewing and crafting up a storm or in the kitchen attempting to cook up simple, family friendly meals. You can find more of my sewing, craft projects and recipes at my blog: Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom.

A Tablet PC has been on my wish list for quite a while. With the money I saved combined with some Christmas cash, I was finally able to buy one! Whoo hoo! I've been researching tablets online for a while, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 was the one I wanted. I ordered it from Amazon.com and it was delivered right before the end of the year. I have really been enjoying it. (Not a single moment of buyers remorse...)

I've bought a few accesories for my tablet. A silicone skin cover (hot pink of course), tablet stand and screen protector. The only thing I still needed was a protective case for when I wasn't using it or when traveling.

I looked around on Amazon, but I wasn't finding anything I liked online. (Gotta get my money's worth out of the Amazon Prime membership I just paid for.) After contemplating what I wanted, I decided to just make my own padded Tablet Cover.

Here is how I made the tablet cover:

Materials needed :
-2 Fabric pieces, one for the outside and one for the inside. For my outside fabric I pieced together some fabric scraps I won from giveaway on the Modkid Blog by Patty Young. This fabric is from her new line, "Lush".
-Quilt Batting (You could also use fleece or felt)
-Elastic cording
-Button
-Thread
-Cutting mat and ruler with bias markings (you can manage without bias marking, but it sure makes it easier)
-water soluble marker
-scissors
-fray check

First, you need to determine the width to cut your fabric. Here is how to get measurements for your device:

width of the device + the depth of the device + 2.5 inches

For me those numbers were 10.25 + .5 + 2.5. I wanted a little extra wiggle room since I have a silicone skin on mine,so I added an additional .5 inch.

I could give you a long mathematical computation for the length of fabric needed, but it will be a lot easier if you just cut the fabric to 3.5 times the length of your device. Then just play with how big you want your pocket and how much you want the flap to fold over. Once you have the pocket and flap size to your liking, add one inch for seam allowances and trim off any extra fabric. (I did work out the formula, so if you work better that way, leave a comment and I will send it to you.)

I didn't take a picture of this process, but here is a close up of how mine looks in the pocket and with the flap folded over:

The total fabric dimensions I used for a Galaxy Tablet was 13 3/4 wide by 22 7/8 long. (My silicone skin adds a tiny bit to the measurement all the way around and I based my measurements with the skin on.) If you have an Ipad you could adapt the fabric measurement by taking off 1 1/2 inches from the width.

Next, cut your second fabric piece to the same dimensions as the first piece. Cut the batting to the same width and 1/2 inch shorter on the length. (This helps when we finish the open end.)

Lay your fabrics together in this order:

Top fabric right side up,

bottom fabric right side down

then the batting (fleece or felt)

Next, sew the 3 edges together, using a 1/2 inch seam allowance, leaving the top open as shown:

Clip the bottom corners and trim away extra fabric from the sides.

Then flip the cover right side out, so the batting is on the inside, sandwiched between the top and bottom layer. Use a pencil or point turner to help get a crisp corner.

Iron the seam edges flat.

Remember how you cut the batting 1/2 inch shorter and left the short edge open? Fold the fabric edges in 1/2 inch all the way around the opening and press the edges as evenly as possible. Pin in place.

Cut your elastic cord to about 7 inches. Find the center of the pocket flap and mark it. Fold the cord in half and tuck in about an inch between the folded edges at your center marking. Pin securely.

Sew the edge closed 1/4 inch from the edge.

When you get to where the cord is tucked in, back stitch over the cord 2 times, so it is extra secure.

Next, we will mark the quilting lines with our disappearing ink marker. Line your fabric up on the cutting mat, then line up your ruler using the 45 degree bias markings.

With your marker, draw lines 2 inches apart all the way across the fabric.

Then flip your fabric around and draw more lines going the other direction. You will end up with a criss-cross pattern like this:

Sew all the way across, edge to edge, along each line you drew. Pull all your treads to the back/inside piece, tie securely and trim. Use fray check on the knots to ensure they are extra secure.

Next, lay out your fabric out flat. Use your to judgement on how much room you want in your pocket and how much overlap you want with the flap. Mark the edge of the pocket and pin in place.

Start sewing from the top of the flap to the bottom edge of the pocket, about 3/8 inch from the edge. Repeat on the other side.

You're almost done, the only thing left is to sew on the button. Just close the flap and use the cord loop as a guide for button placement.

Ta da! You're Done! Now sit back and admire your new handmade Quilted Tablet Cover!

Thank you so much Kari for having me at Ucreate today!

If you like this tutorial and want to see more, I'd love to have you visit me at my blog, Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom.

Other Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom Links:

Twitter

simple handmade cards

2012-01-17T09:56:00.001-07:00

I love simple.

I love making handmade cards.

I grabbed some felt scraps, cut out a simple heart, stitched around the edge, and made these for Valentine’s Day…

I made these b-day cards by simply cutting small triangles using my fabric scraps and making a little banner…

So simple.

So much fun.

DIY Thread Holder

2012-01-17T05:41:00.000-07:00

Have you seen Katie’s Thread Holder at Craptastic…

Thread Holder Tutorial

…get this.

It was only $10!

Clip On Tie Tutorial

2012-01-16T22:55:00.001-07:00

Cool tie…cool kid!

Alida at I Make Stuff shows you how to make a clip on tie using an old shirt and a hair clip!

DIY Clip On Tie

Awesome refashion idea!

Creative Guest: Art Studio by Laura Trevey

2012-01-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hello readers! My name is Laura Trevey and I am thrilled to be here on Ucreate to share some inspiration for your work space today.

Who am I? I am a watercolor artist, editor of Bright Bold and Beautiful, and author of smART Business: an Inspirational Guide for ALL artists and crafters.

When I got serious about turning my passion into profit, I decided to "create" a real home office / art studio. In the center of the room I designed a custom island with wide shelves. I made it specifically to store my watercolor paper which is 26" by 40". It is movable with casters on the bottom, so I can place it anywhere in the room.

I created a large inspiration board to hang my watercolors as well as inspirational photos. I painted the pegboard the same Spring Mint wall color. Then I framed the pegboard with white trim for a finished look. This is the focal point of the room and the ultimate organizer. The entire board measures 5 1/2 feet by 8 feet.

Over on the side of the room, I put in cabinets to store my supplies, with a dark teal/turquoise laminate top {which really looks like granite}.

My desk is made up of two Vika Artur trestles from Ikea and a nice glass beveled edge top. I love my Jules swivel chair as well. Featured on the wall is my original watercolor dress painting.

I also love my addition of the Pottery Barn daily system to keep me organized!!

Thank you Kari for letting me share my work space with you and your wonderful Ucreate readers!!

For more how-to tips for your art and crafts business, order a copy of smART business today and get inspired.

Come say hello on Bright Bold and Beautiful ~ Cheers! xoxo Laura

Facebook

Twitter

Wire Embroidery…cool technique!

2012-01-12T06:49:00.000-07:00

I have never heard of wire embroidery until I saw this awesome tutorial at Family Chic…

Wire Embroidery Tutorial

…how cool is this?

Petal Dress Tutorial

2012-01-12T00:40:00.001-07:00

Another gorgeous project from iCandy Handmade!

Petal Dress Tutorial

This would make the perfect li’l Easter dress!

L.O.V.E. Pillowcases

2012-01-11T10:47:00.001-07:00

Check out the “love”ly pillowcases over at Flamingo Toes!

LOVE Pillowcases Tutorial

What a fun font and I love those ruffles!

DIY Love Story Pallet

2012-01-11T10:00:00.001-07:00

Katie at Sweet Rose Studio stopped by to share her “Love Story” pallet and I can’t get over how gorgeous it is!

DIY Love Story Pallet

So. Beautiful.

DIY Industrial Canvas Collage by The Real Housewives of Bucks County

2012-01-11T09:29:00.000-07:00

Hey there! We're Monica & Jess, AKA The Real Housewives of Bucks County. Hmm... Are they drama queens? Do they DIY plastic surgery? You can find those answers and anything else you may or may not have wanted to know about us and our DIY adventures over on our blog.

We're insanely happy to be here on U Create, it's sorta like checking something off of our bucket list!

We're so honored to be invited; thanks so much Kari!

Everyone loves gallery-wrapped canvases these days, and why wouldn't you? They're fabulous! Although, we don't know about you, but sometimes $60.00+ for one print is a wee bit hard for us to swallow. We were super excited to hear that WalMart came out with a faux canvas:

Now what, you ask, is a faux canvas?

Well, we were wondering the same thing, so of course we tried it out. What they do is print your photo on heavy, dimpled paper (canvas look-alike) and then wrap it around a cardboard box. Sounds glamorous, huh? Let me tell you that for the price, we were thrilled!

And, of course, we didn't pay full price... and neither should you! Here's the coupon that we used to bring the price down to $9.96. It's good until Jan. 31, 2012.

{click on photo for full size coupon}

Monica has 4 kids, yup FOUR, and so we got prints of each of the kiddos. We thought it would be fun to add a little boys vs. girls flare, so, inspired by Mandi's Epic Room Makeover we made two graphic canvases as well. We just used some images we found online and Picnik to create them.

The first step was to add the screw eyes to each canvas. Just measure to the center and screw them in. Since they're made of cardboard it was crazy simple to do. (Umm, please ignore my creepy monster looking hands)

Add screw eyes to the top and bottom of each canvas except for the one which will be at the bottom of your display. The bottom canvas will only get top screw eyes.

Next, add screw eyes to the ceiling. This will require a little measuring, but you'll want them to be even. Monica's vaulted ceiling required some additional math, but we made it work.

Here's where it got a bit tricky. The nice man at Lowe's gave us these clamps to lock the wire in place. Have you ever felt like your hands were made of stone? It's very clear that we're not surgeons. It took about 30 minutes to clamp the first side. Ugh! Monica's hubs got home and it took him 30 seconds. We were just happy to have it done!

Now for the fun part! Weave the wire through the screw eyes on the top, behind the back and out the bottom. Repeat for the remaining canvases. Ok, we're all about keeping it Real on our blog, so we'll be honest here too... This is a two person job and preferably with a person you really like, because it's a tad frustrating. The canvases tend to slip down a bit and did we mention our stone hands? We promise it's all worth it in the end.

Once your canvases are threaded through, you'll want to secure the bottom one first. We used a staple gun to hold the wire in place and then added some hot glue (because they were slipping and because Jess is slightly obsessed with the stuff!)

Determine how far apart you want your canvases and adjust them accordingly. The tension of the taut wire should keep the upper canvases in place, but if you want extra support you can add some glue to each one.

The end result is a unique, industrial-looking display that we love!

I (Monica) couldn't be happier with this project and the unique way to share pictures of my kids!

I have to give a shout out to our photographer and friend at Salvatori Photography. These pictures are SO my kids!

This was just the first project in Monica's breakfast room makeover, we have lots more planned. Come visit us anytime to see what else we're up to!

Thanks so much Kari for letting us share!

Other Helpful Real Housewives of Buck County Links:

Facebook

Twitter

Etsy

A new year. A new skill. (learn how to restore furniture!)

2012-01-09T10:19:00.001-07:00

Repurposing furniture has been one hot hobby these past few years!

Many crafters/DIYers go furniture shopping at the thrift store these days instead of high end stores for a few reasons…

* it’s inexpensive

* it’s customizable (they use their fave fabric and paint colors to create exactly what they want)

* it’s recycling

* it’s fun!

Take Brooke for example.

She runs an awesome blog called All Things Thrifty and shows you amazing, inexpensive ways to decorate your home!

I also love how she brightens her home using COLOR! One of my goals this year is to have a “statement piece” in each room…and that means using more color. I’m in love with Brooke’s chairs…

Do you want to restore old furniture?

Do you have items you bought from the thrift store that are hiding in your basement, but just don’t know where to begin?

One of the very first things you need to learn is how to paint it!

Learn the “tricks of the trade” and find out what paint to buy, when you need to prime, and how to apply it!

What is Glazing?

Find out what glaze Brooke uses, how to add paint to glaze, and how to apply it! Her video tutorials are fabulous, too!

You will also find her follow-up post very helpful…

Top 10 Tips For Glaze

Spray Painting Tips Galore!

The spray paint you purchase matters!

Here you will find where to buy it, where to spray paint, learn about the different sheens, how to prevent dripping, and more!

DIY Unique Turquoise Mirror

Next up?

…and don’t let this part scare you (it’s easier than you might think!)……reupholstering!!

Learn how to reupholster a chair from beginning to end.

How to Reupholster a Wing Back Chair

Top 10 Upholstery Tips

How Much Fabric Do I Need?

Can you believe Brooke scored this chair for only $20?

Gorgeous end result!

Brooke’s reupholstering skills were the very first thing to catch my eye! I instantly fell in love with this crib makeover…

DIY Reupholstered Crib

..and I always love Brooke’s Week of Chairs series!

I hope we’ve inspired you to get out that old piece of furniture and create something fabulous!!

I’ve only shared a little of what All Things Thrifty is all about so make sure to hop on over to see many beautiful DIY goodness!

new year. new skill (how to make jewelry!)

2012-01-05T21:00:00.000-07:00

How many of you rock it up when it comes to jewelry?

I’m jealous.

I’ve made a little bit of my own jewelry (stretchy bracelets, using my glue gun to embellish a ring, super easy things like that!), but I’ve never really learned the basics.

I received lots of emails asking me to include jewelry making in this week’s series…

When I was thinking about jewelry, Rebecca at My Girlish Whims popped into my mind immediately. She’s a 21-yr old gal from the Philly area and she knows her jewelry!

Rebecca has many tips & tutorials in her “Jewelry Lessons with My Girlish Whims” series and she makes it look like anybody can do this!

She starts by sharing her favorite jewelry supplies, beads, and explains what they’re used for…

Jewelry Tools and Supplies

Jewelry Making Supplies – The Beads!

She teaches you how to use crimp beads…

(click on photo for tutorial)

…how to use jump rings…

(click on photo for tutorial)

…and many other projects like these beauties!

Pearl and Ribbon Necklace Tutorial

Anthro-Knock Off Earrings Tutorial

Fabric Covered Button Earrings Tutorial

If jewelry-making has been on your list of things to learn, hop on over to My Girlish Whims!

Do you love making jewelry and have a tutorial you’d like to share with us? Please share it in the comments below! Thank you!

new year. new skill. (learn to SEW)

2012-01-03T21:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Day 2 in our “new year, new skill” series!

Many of you told me you want to learn how to sew this year. My goal this week is to provide you with some of the best (free) resources out there and motivate you to learn something new.

You. Can. Do. This!

Sewing is one of my very favorite creative outlets. Once you get the hang of it, you won’t be able to stop. There are endless projects you can create with a sewing machine. I even sew on paper!

To get started…go download this…

Two of the best sewing companies out there (Sew4Home and Moda) come together to bring you this FREE sewing basics guide.

Here are some of the many things you will learn…

basic parts of the sewing machine
selecting the right fabric
how to sew a seam
top 5 cutting tools for sewing
cheat sheets
how to rip out a seam

…and so much more!!!

It doesn’t stop there.

Sew4Home has many tips and techniques you can learn beyond the sewing guide like…

How to Read a Fabric Bolt

The Difference Between Pressing & Ironing

What You Need to Know Before Cutting Your Fabric

You can also find hundreds of free sewing patterns like…

Minky & Satin Baby Blanket Tutorial

I want these. I love jumbo ric rac and these would make a fun gift, too…

Trimmed Kitchen Towels Tutorial

…or maybe you want to make comfortable PJ bottoms for the whole family?

PJ Pants Tutorial

My point is that you can always find sewing inspiration galore over at Sew4Home! It’s a fabulous resource for the beginning seamstress to the advanced seamstress.

So tell me, what is the first project you would like to sew this year?

new year. new skill.

2012-01-02T09:50:00.000-07:00

The long break was fabulous and the time was spent enjoying my family, organizing my home (or at least trying), playing Just Dance 3, and reading The Lightning Thief Series. It was all fun, but I’m also glad to be back!

At the beginning of each year I’m motivated to try something new. I get into creative habits and usually stick to my favorite crafts. I love to make quilt tops, sew small projects, and I really enjoy restoring furniture (I have a tv stand that I’ll be sharing soon!).

I’m also a huge chicken when it comes to certain crafts.

I’m. afraid. to. crochet.

There I said it. Between the “Captain Hook” tool and the many different stitches & techniques…it intimidates me like no other.

I feel like I’m missing out though. Check out all of the amazing crochet projects you can create like these adorable baby items…

Crochet Ruffles & Dots Baby Blanket

Crochet Lego Blanket Tutorial

Crochet Infant Tennis Shoes Tutorial

…or these dishcloths! I remember a lady making me a couple of these when I was first married. I’m not going to lie, I thought they looked “old-fashioned” and I almost didn’t keep them. Well, I tried them one day when I was cleaning my kitchen…and in my opinion they are the best dishcloths ever! I need to make some ASAP!

Ribbed Washcloth Tutorial

I also want to create hair accessories and fun crochet flowers and knots for my girls…

The Knotted Headband Tutorial

…and I think this beauty motivates me the most. I’m crazy about this blanket and my goal is to make this by the end of the year! Telling all of you means I have to do it or I’ll make a fool out of myself right?

Chevron Blanket Tutorial

I realize I need to start small and work my way up and that’s why I’m attending crochet school…

The talented Dana Beach over at Crafty Minx has created a whole series of lessons from the very beginning (she also tells you the difference between knitting and crocheting-yes, I barely learned a few years ago what the difference was!) and takes you through many different techniques in the crochet world giving you assignments along the way!

Oh, and it’s FREE!

Check out the syllabus for details. I can’t wait to get started.

Do you have a new skill you’ve been wanting to learn, but just haven’t gotten around to it yet?

I’d love to hear your creative goal!

Also this week I’ll be featuring many how-to’s for beginners in our “new year. new skill” series so stay tuned!

Ucreate

Crochet Cupcake Beanie Tutorial by All Things Bright and Beautiful

I am so excited to be here on Ucreate today. My name is Andrea and I started All Things Bright and Beautiful a couple of years ago with the hope of one day being featured on Ucreate—and here I am!

I’m a stay-at-home mom and spend a good amount of my time each day crocheting projects that are bright, modern, and trendy. Some of those projects include blankets, beanies, and toys. I really want to share my love for crochet with you and get you excited about how fun and easy it is.

So here is a tutorial of a cupcake beanie I made my little girl for her cupcake-themed 1st birthday party.

Size: 12 months

Skill Level: Easy

Materials Needed:

H hook (5.00 mm)

one skein of medium worsted yarn in brown (I used Lion Brand Yarn)

one skein of medium worsted yarn in pink (I used Lion Brand Yarn)

stitch marker

scissors

yarn needle

Abbreviations:

ch: chain

sc: single crochet

dc: double crochet

st: stitch

sc2tog: single crochet 2 together

Note: You will be working in a round on the beanie, so do not turn your work or join rounds.

Row 1: magic ring 4. (4) (This link explains how to do a magic ring.)

Row 2: sc 2 st in each sc around. (8)

Row 3: *2 sc in first st, sc in next st* repeat around. (12)

Row 4: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 2 sts* repeat around. (16)

Row 5: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 3 sts* repeat around. (20)

Row 6: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 4 sts* repeat around. (24)

Row 7: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 5 sts* repeat around. (28)

Row 8: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 6 sts* repeat around. (32)

Row 9: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 7 sts* repeat around. (36)

Row 10: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 8 sts* repeat around. (40)

Row 11: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 9 sts* repeat around. (44)

Row 12: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 10 sts* repeat around. (48)

Row13: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 11 sts* repeat around. (52)

Row 14: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 12 sts* repeat around. (56)

Row 15: *2 sc in first st, sc in next 13 sts* repeat around. (60)

Row 16-18: sc in every stitch around.

Row 19(edging): working in the outside loop only, skip 2 sts, 5 dc in st, skip 2 sts, sc, skip 2 sts, 5 dc in st, repeat around and slip stitch to beginning stitch. Fasten off and leave long tail for sewing to bottom part.

Note: you can make the frosting part smaller or bigger by taking out the last couple of rows, or make it bigger by adding rows at the end and following in the same pattern (sc in first 14, 2 sc in next st, etc).

Note: You will be turning your work and then sewing together at the end.

Bottom of Cupcake Hat

Row 1: Ch. 60.

Row 2: Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each st across.

Row 3: ch 3, *dc in front post, dc in back post* repeat until end of row. Ch 3, turn work. (This explains how to crochet front and back posts.)

Rows 4-6: repeat row 3. Fasten off and leave long tail for sewing sides together.

Note: To make this hat smaller or bigger, simply chain less or more at the beginning and follow the rest of the pattern.

Once you have both top and bottom finished sew the bottom piece to the frosting top. Sew around evenly through the bottom inside loop of the frosting part to the top of the bottom of the cupcake hat.

Note: You can add sprinkles by sewing different colors into the top part of the beanie, or add a cherry on top.

Cherry

Row 1: magic ring 4.

Row 2: 2 single crochet in each one around. (8)

Row 3: 2 single crochet in 1st st, single crochet in next, repeat around. (12)

Row 4-6: sc in each st around.

Row 7: sc2tog, sc in next repeat around (8)

Row 8: sc2tog, sc in next, repeat around (4)

Fasten off and leave long tail to sew closed and chain 5 for a stem.

Check out my blog for more beanie and blanket patterns. You can also find me on Pinterest!

If you have any questions about crochet I would be happy to answer them.

Thanks Kari for having me!

LOVE Pillow Tutorial

…this LOVE throw pillow cover! Grab your favorite fabric, a contrasting color of felt, and create this super simple pillow!

Supply List

One Yard of Fabric

One Square of Felt (4 for $1.00 at craft store)

DMC floss (I used white or you could

use your machine if you prefer)

Sewing machine thread

LOVE Template…(click image and print)

Introducing Ucreate’s Pillow of the Month Series…

Ruffle Fabric Bed Skirt Tutorial by Little Cherry Blossoms

Crochet Heart Bobby Pins

14 Days of Valentines

Sponsored Giveaway: Shaped Expressions

21 Bakers Twine Tutorials

Country Ruffle Top Tutorial

DIY Heart Cutout Dress

Quilted Tablet Cover Tutorial by Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom

Other Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom Links:

Sponsored Giveaway: Lilac Lane

simple handmade cards

Row 3: 2 sc in first st, sc in next st repeat around. (12)

Row 4: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 2 sts repeat around. (16)

Row 5: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 3 sts repeat around. (20)

Row 6: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 4 sts repeat around. (24)

Row 7: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 5 sts repeat around. (28)

Row 8: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 6 sts repeat around. (32)

Row 9: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 7 sts repeat around. (36)

Row 10: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 8 sts repeat around. (40)

Row 11: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 9 sts repeat around. (44)

Row 12: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 10 sts repeat around. (48)

Row13: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 11 sts repeat around. (52)

Row 14: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 12 sts repeat around. (56)

Row 15: 2 sc in first st, sc in next 13 sts repeat around. (60)

Row 3: ch 3, dc in front post, dc in back post repeat until end of row. Ch 3, turn work. (This explains how to crochet front and back posts.)