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Keep up with the latest from the team at Sizzix® HQ!
Here at Sizzix®, creativity is at the heart of everything we do, from searching for inspirational new ideas, making exciting new projects or attending creative events. We want to share all our exciting news and ideas with you, the Sizzix® Community, so you can see exactly what we’re loving when it comes to die-cutting and making.
Expect lots of inspiration! We’re keeping an eye out for fun, creative ideas that we can share with you. Whether its papercrafting, upcycling or cardmaking, we’ll keep you up-to-date with what’s new. Especially when it comes to new products, you’ll find out everything you need to know about our latest product collections, including lots of inspiration on what you could create.
If you’re eager to find out what’s going on behind the scenes, then keep an eye out for sneak peeks of what we’re up to here at Sizzix® HQ. We’ll keep you updated with any exciting news or fun events we’ve attended. You never know, you might appear on here too one day!
Here at Sizzix®, creativity is at the heart of everything we do, from searching for inspirational new ideas, making exciting new projects or attending creative events. We want to share all our exciting news and ideas with you, the Sizzix® Community, so you can see exactly what we’re loving when it comes to die-cutting and making.
Expect lots of inspiration! We’re keeping an eye out for fun, creative ideas that we can share with you. Whether its papercrafting, upcycling or cardmaking, we’ll keep you up-to-date with what’s new. Especially when it comes to new products, you’ll find out everything you need to know about our latest product collections, including lots of inspiration on what you could create.
If you’re eager to find out what’s going on behind the scenes, then keep an eye out for sneak peeks of what we’re up to here at Sizzix® HQ. We’ll keep you updated with any exciting news or fun events we’ve attended. You never know, you might appear on here too one day!
Pantone's Color of the Year 2017 – Greenery!
Pantone’s chosen colour of the year for 2017 is Greenery, sending us, and everyone else into a frenzy for all things green!
We’re loving the fresh, nature-inspired greenery projects we’ve been seeing lately, especially when it comes to home décor pieces! Whether its succulent filled terrariums, patterns filled with fresh green tones or cute cacti decorations, there’s been so much inspiration that we just had to get making!
Sizzix® Creative Designer Leanne has been busy getting together some of her favourite greenery-themed home décor pieces for you to try, using lots of our favourite Sizzix® dies. We love them! So, we thought we’d share them with you too.
Take a look at some of our Greenery-inspired home décor projects below to try out for yourself.
Pantone’s chosen colour of the year for 2017 is Greenery, sending us, and everyone else into a frenzy for all things green!
We’re loving the fresh, nature-inspired greenery projects we’ve been seeing lately, especially when it comes to home décor pieces! Whether its succulent filled terrariums, patterns filled with fresh green tones or cute cacti decorations, there’s been so much inspiration that we just had to get making!
Sizzix® Creative Designer Leanne has been busy getting together some of her favourite greenery-themed home décor pieces for you to try, using lots of our favourite Sizzix® dies. We love them! So, we thought we’d share them with you too.
Take a look at some of our Greenery-inspired home décor projects below to try out for yourself.
Cactus Print Cushion
This crazy cactus print cushion is the perfect piece for brightening any living room this summer. Why not try making it using our Cacti Thinlits™ Die Set? Or, go for a subtler look, using the Woodland Foliage Bigz™ Die.
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Die Set 6PK – Cacti by Debi Potter (661700)
• Sizzix® Precision Base Plate for Intricate Thinlits™ dies (660320)
• Clear stamping blocks
• Sticky back craft foam
• Craft Board
• Masking tape
• Stix 2 double-sided adhesive sheets – A4
• Scissors
• 1 x square of fabric for cushion front, 1 x square of lining fabric and 1 x square of hessian - all measuring the same
• Cushion filling
• Sewing Machine and thread
• Versacraft ink pads for fabric – Pantone greens and black
How To Make:
Using the tall and round cacti designs from the Thinlits™ Cacti die set, make block stamps using the following steps...
1. Die-cut shapes and pots from the sticky back craft foam and stick into position on the craft board, leaving plenty of space between the two designs.
2. Cut around rectangle with scissors.
3. On reverse of craft board, attach double-sided adhesive sheet.
4. Now cut shape out using scissors, leaving approximately 2mm all around.
5. Peel off back and adhere to clear stamping block. The stamp is ready to use!
6. Lay front fabric down on your work surface and secure with masking tape.
7. Stamp the design using the image as a guide. Ensure when stamping that the surface of the design is covered with an even spread of ink.
8. To make up the cushion, flip the newly printed fabric over and pin lining fabric to reverse.
9. Now take this whole piece and lay over the hessian. Pin to secure.
10. Using a straight stitch on the sewing machine and a 1/4” seam allowance, sew around cushion edge leaving a gap at the bottom approximately 10cm wide. Recommended to double up stitch when using hessian for a more secure hold. Turn inside out.
11. Tuck in seams of open edge, pin and sew together. For a neat finish, sew as close to edge as possible.
This crazy cactus print cushion is the perfect piece for brightening any living room this summer. Why not try making it using our Cacti Thinlits™ Die Set? Or, go for a subtler look, using the Woodland Foliage Bigz™ Die.
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Die Set 6PK – Cacti by Debi Potter (661700)
• Sizzix® Precision Base Plate for Intricate Thinlits™ dies (660320)
• Clear stamping blocks
• Sticky back craft foam
• Craft Board
• Masking tape
• Stix 2 double-sided adhesive sheets – A4
• Scissors
• 1 x square of fabric for cushion front, 1 x square of lining fabric and 1 x square of hessian - all measuring the same
• Cushion filling
• Sewing Machine and thread
• Versacraft ink pads for fabric – Pantone greens and black
How To Make:
Using the tall and round cacti designs from the Thinlits™ Cacti die set, make block stamps using the following steps...
1. Die-cut shapes and pots from the sticky back craft foam and stick into position on the craft board, leaving plenty of space between the two designs.
2. Cut around rectangle with scissors.
3. On reverse of craft board, attach double-sided adhesive sheet.
4. Now cut shape out using scissors, leaving approximately 2mm all around.
5. Peel off back and adhere to clear stamping block. The stamp is ready to use!
6. Lay front fabric down on your work surface and secure with masking tape.
7. Stamp the design using the image as a guide. Ensure when stamping that the surface of the design is covered with an even spread of ink.
8. To make up the cushion, flip the newly printed fabric over and pin lining fabric to reverse.
9. Now take this whole piece and lay over the hessian. Pin to secure.
10. Using a straight stitch on the sewing machine and a 1/4” seam allowance, sew around cushion edge leaving a gap at the bottom approximately 10cm wide. Recommended to double up stitch when using hessian for a more secure hold. Turn inside out.
11. Tuck in seams of open edge, pin and sew together. For a neat finish, sew as close to edge as possible.
Handmade Cactus Terrarium
This wall hanging home décor piece is just too cute, and it’s super easy to make! Why not create it for your home to add a touch of Greenery this summer.
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Moroccan Flower by Samantha Barnett (661713)
• Pantone green felt stock – 3 colour varieties
• Pantone green card stock in coordinating colours to felt
• Double-sided sticky sheets
• Thick string
• Hole punch
• Decorative gravel
• Hanging glass bird feeder
How To Make:
1. Back felt with coordinating card to strengthen using the double-sided sticky sheets.
2. For the larger succulent, die-cut 3 of the large flower on the die, and 2 of the small. Hole punch centres.
3. Take a 10cm piece of thick string and tie a knot in the end. Pull tight and trim excess right down to the knot.
4. Thread the undone end of the string first through the two small flowers, felt side up and front to back, then take through the 3 large flowers.
5. Position petals so they’re spread evenly between each other, and pull string taught.
6. Turn flower over and tie a knot to secure.
7. To make the 2 smaller succulents, repeat this process but you will only need 3 die-cuts of the smaller flower for each.
8. Hang your bird feeder and fill with decorative gravel to a cm below the opening.
9. Gently place the succulents into the feeder using image as a guide.
This wall hanging home décor piece is just too cute, and it’s super easy to make! Why not create it for your home to add a touch of Greenery this summer.
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Moroccan Flower by Samantha Barnett (661713)
• Pantone green felt stock – 3 colour varieties
• Pantone green card stock in coordinating colours to felt
• Double-sided sticky sheets
• Thick string
• Hole punch
• Decorative gravel
• Hanging glass bird feeder
How To Make:
1. Back felt with coordinating card to strengthen using the double-sided sticky sheets.
2. For the larger succulent, die-cut 3 of the large flower on the die, and 2 of the small. Hole punch centres.
3. Take a 10cm piece of thick string and tie a knot in the end. Pull tight and trim excess right down to the knot.
4. Thread the undone end of the string first through the two small flowers, felt side up and front to back, then take through the 3 large flowers.
5. Position petals so they’re spread evenly between each other, and pull string taught.
6. Turn flower over and tie a knot to secure.
7. To make the 2 smaller succulents, repeat this process but you will only need 3 die-cuts of the smaller flower for each.
8. Hang your bird feeder and fill with decorative gravel to a cm below the opening.
9. Gently place the succulents into the feeder using image as a guide.
Tropical Wall Hanging
We love this idea for a conservatory or a room with lots of light, it makes us feel like were on a holiday in the tropics... we wish!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Woodland Foliage by Samantha Barnett (661717)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Heart #3 (660458)
• Pantone Green paper stock – 2 colour varieties
• Craft Knife
• Twine
• Small tree branch
How To Make:
1. Measure and cut several lengths of string to desired height of backdrop. Tie a knot at the end of every piece.
2. Using the Bigz™ Woodland Foliage die first, die-cut appropriate number of leaves to fill a length of string. For this project, 2 colours of green were used alternately.
3. Take the craft knife and with each leaf, carefully cut a small slit approximately 7mm, vertically, at the bottom of the leaf stem.
4. Now curl the ends of each leaf by sliding the paper between your fore and middle finger, turning the paper down. At this stage, we have turned some of the leaves over before curling so that they hang in different directions.
5. When all leaves have been curled, take the unfastened end of the twine and thread through the slit of the first leaf, threading from back to front. Wrapping a small amount of sellotape at the end of the twine may make threading a little easier. Slide the leaf down to the knot.
6. Repeat leaf threading until string is full, leaving only a slight overlap of leaf and stem as you go, and tie to branch.
7. To make the tropical leaves, die-cut hearts using the Bigz™ Heart #3 die.
8. Fold in half and cut 3 rounded ‘V’ shapes on outer edge (use project image as a guide).
9. Open out heart and curl over the edges all around.
10. Repeat steps 3-6 to attach them to the twine, again alternating colours, and tie into position on the branch.
11. Continue making the leaf strings, and attaching, until you fill the full width of your branch.
We love this idea for a conservatory or a room with lots of light, it makes us feel like were on a holiday in the tropics... we wish!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Woodland Foliage by Samantha Barnett (661717)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Heart #3 (660458)
• Pantone Green paper stock – 2 colour varieties
• Craft Knife
• Twine
• Small tree branch
How To Make:
1. Measure and cut several lengths of string to desired height of backdrop. Tie a knot at the end of every piece.
2. Using the Bigz™ Woodland Foliage die first, die-cut appropriate number of leaves to fill a length of string. For this project, 2 colours of green were used alternately.
3. Take the craft knife and with each leaf, carefully cut a small slit approximately 7mm, vertically, at the bottom of the leaf stem.
4. Now curl the ends of each leaf by sliding the paper between your fore and middle finger, turning the paper down. At this stage, we have turned some of the leaves over before curling so that they hang in different directions.
5. When all leaves have been curled, take the unfastened end of the twine and thread through the slit of the first leaf, threading from back to front. Wrapping a small amount of sellotape at the end of the twine may make threading a little easier. Slide the leaf down to the knot.
6. Repeat leaf threading until string is full, leaving only a slight overlap of leaf and stem as you go, and tie to branch.
7. To make the tropical leaves, die-cut hearts using the Bigz™ Heart #3 die.
8. Fold in half and cut 3 rounded ‘V’ shapes on outer edge (use project image as a guide).
9. Open out heart and curl over the edges all around.
10. Repeat steps 3-6 to attach them to the twine, again alternating colours, and tie into position on the branch.
11. Continue making the leaf strings, and attaching, until you fill the full width of your branch.
Greenery Box Frame
This simple yet effective Box Frame Design is a great way to add a splash of colour to your walls!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Asian Flower by Debi Potter (661690)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Moroccan Flower by Samantha Barnett (661713)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Sweet Lotus by My Life Handmade (661715)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Pretty Flower Mini by Samantha Barnett (661794)
• Pantone green paper stock
• Adhesive pearls
• Hot glue gun
• Scissors/craft knife
• Box frame
How To Make:
1. Using the Sizzix® dies, die-cut 3 flowers for each ‘Moroccan Flower’ succulent, 4 flowers for each ‘Pretty Flower Mini’ succulent, 3 large and 2 small for the ‘Asian Flower’ succulent and 3 large and 3 small for the ‘Sweet Lotus’ succulent.
2. Curl up ends of petals with fingers and layer one on top of the other, spreading the petals evenly. Glue together. For the ‘Asian Flower’ and ‘Sweet Lotus’ succulents, glue small on top of large.
3. Adhere pearls to centers of flowers.
4. Line back of frame with a background paper of your choice and trim excess.
5. Position succulents as shown in image and glue into place.
Look out for more greenery-inspired projects on the Making Journal.
This simple yet effective Box Frame Design is a great way to add a splash of colour to your walls!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Asian Flower by Debi Potter (661690)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Moroccan Flower by Samantha Barnett (661713)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Sweet Lotus by My Life Handmade (661715)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Pretty Flower Mini by Samantha Barnett (661794)
• Pantone green paper stock
• Adhesive pearls
• Hot glue gun
• Scissors/craft knife
• Box frame
How To Make:
1. Using the Sizzix® dies, die-cut 3 flowers for each ‘Moroccan Flower’ succulent, 4 flowers for each ‘Pretty Flower Mini’ succulent, 3 large and 2 small for the ‘Asian Flower’ succulent and 3 large and 3 small for the ‘Sweet Lotus’ succulent.
2. Curl up ends of petals with fingers and layer one on top of the other, spreading the petals evenly. Glue together. For the ‘Asian Flower’ and ‘Sweet Lotus’ succulents, glue small on top of large.
3. Adhere pearls to centers of flowers.
4. Line back of frame with a background paper of your choice and trim excess.
5. Position succulents as shown in image and glue into place.
Look out for more greenery-inspired projects on the Making Journal.
Get Festival Ready
Festival season is upon us! If you are like us, and can’t wait to grab your wellies and tents to spend your weekends at some of the best summer festivals, then take a look at our festival-ready guide below.
We might not be able to take our Big Shot™ machines with us, but there’s no doubt we’ll be creating some festival-fun essentials to help us survive in style this festival season.
Here’s some of our favourite festival ideas below:
Festival season is upon us! If you are like us, and can’t wait to grab your wellies and tents to spend your weekends at some of the best summer festivals, then take a look at our festival-ready guide below.
We might not be able to take our Big Shot™ machines with us, but there’s no doubt we’ll be creating some festival-fun essentials to help us survive in style this festival season.
Here’s some of our favourite festival ideas below:
Festival Headbands
It’s not a complete festival outfit without a beautifully flowery, pompom headband! Why not try making your own using our collection of flower dies.
Photo credit: festival headband, statement feather headdress, floral hair garland.
It’s not a complete festival outfit without a beautifully flowery, pompom headband! Why not try making your own using our collection of flower dies.
Photo credit: festival headband, statement feather headdress, floral hair garland.
Wellies
THE festival essential! No matter the weather, festival wellies are the number one item on our festival check lists. If like us, you don’t want plain wellies, then try some of these fun ideas to customise your wellies this year.
Photo credit: Glastonbury 2013 customised wellies, boho wellies, upcycled wellies.
THE festival essential! No matter the weather, festival wellies are the number one item on our festival check lists. If like us, you don’t want plain wellies, then try some of these fun ideas to customise your wellies this year.
Photo credit: Glastonbury 2013 customised wellies, boho wellies, upcycled wellies.
Tent Bunting
If you’ve camped at a festival and haven’t managed to lose your tent multiple times, you’re doing well!
We’ve got the ultimate solution to never losing your tent again... bunting! Decorate your tent with unique bunting using our Plus Bunting Die so you can pick your tent out from a line up. Top tip: wrap it round those pesky tent lines so you never fall over them again!
Photo credit: pretty bunting, cute bunting, bunting.
If you’ve camped at a festival and haven’t managed to lose your tent multiple times, you’re doing well!
We’ve got the ultimate solution to never losing your tent again... bunting! Decorate your tent with unique bunting using our Plus Bunting Die so you can pick your tent out from a line up. Top tip: wrap it round those pesky tent lines so you never fall over them again!
Photo credit: pretty bunting, cute bunting, bunting.
Customised Bags
We’ll never miss an opportunity to customise any accessory! Why not try adding some fun-festival themes to your handbag or rucksack to complete your festival look. Why not try using our new Chapter 2 Tassel Die.
Photo credit: pom pom backpack, embellished festival bumbag, tassel backpack.
We would love to see any of your festival-themed makes here at Sizzix®, so make sure you tag us in your social media posts.
We’ll never miss an opportunity to customise any accessory! Why not try adding some fun-festival themes to your handbag or rucksack to complete your festival look. Why not try using our new Chapter 2 Tassel Die.
Photo credit: pom pom backpack, embellished festival bumbag, tassel backpack.
We would love to see any of your festival-themed makes here at Sizzix®, so make sure you tag us in your social media posts.
Simple sewing makes we love!
Sewing may not be everyone’s strongest point when it comes to making! So if you, like us, still fumble around trying to work out how to use your sewing machine, then why not try some of these simple sewing makes to get the practice in!
Here’s some really simple, but lovely, makes to try:
Sewing may not be everyone’s strongest point when it comes to making! So if you, like us, still fumble around trying to work out how to use your sewing machine, then why not try some of these simple sewing makes to get the practice in!
Here’s some really simple, but lovely, makes to try:
Dog Softee
They may look complicated, but trust us, if we can do it then you can too! Watch our Dog Softee quick make video.
They may look complicated, but trust us, if we can do it then you can too! Watch our Dog Softee quick make video.
Cloud Brooch
This little cloud brooch is the perfect make for anyone who is just starting to sew.
This little cloud brooch is the perfect make for anyone who is just starting to sew.
Elephant Basket
We love this elephant basket! It’s perfect as a clothes basket for a little one’s room.
We love this elephant basket! It’s perfect as a clothes basket for a little one’s room.
Felt Homes
These are really fun to create and make great decorations for a child’s bedroom.
These are really fun to create and make great decorations for a child’s bedroom.
Child’s T-Shirt
If you have ever wanted to start making clothing, this child’s T-Shirt is a great way to start practicing.
If you have ever wanted to start making clothing, this child’s T-Shirt is a great way to start practicing.
Felt Heart Garland
This wall decoration is the perfect party piece! It’s so simple to make too.
If you want more sewing inspiration, visit our Sew Special page.
This wall decoration is the perfect party piece! It’s so simple to make too.
If you want more sewing inspiration, visit our Sew Special page.
Top 4 things to do to make your new house a home
Moving into a new house can be one of the most stressful times of anyone’s life, especially when there’s lots of re-decorating and building work involved.
Once you’re in, with the main decorating done, the fun can begin! There’s nothing better than adding all the extra touches that make a new house a home!
Here’s our top things to do to create your perfect home:
Moving into a new house can be one of the most stressful times of anyone’s life, especially when there’s lots of re-decorating and building work involved.
Once you’re in, with the main decorating done, the fun can begin! There’s nothing better than adding all the extra touches that make a new house a home!
Here’s our top things to do to create your perfect home:
Scrapbook Layouts
If you’re a big fan of scrapbooking, you will definitely have a scrapbook layout for all of your best memories. Why not frame these layouts and grace your new walls with all your best memories?
If you’re a big fan of scrapbooking, you will definitely have a scrapbook layout for all of your best memories. Why not frame these layouts and grace your new walls with all your best memories?
New Home Frame
We love the idea of creating a frame to celebrate your new home! Why not try these ideas?
Photo credit: new home frame, home sweet home frame, family home frame.
We love the idea of creating a frame to celebrate your new home! Why not try these ideas?
Photo credit: new home frame, home sweet home frame, family home frame.
Upcycling
Why not try upcycling some of your old furniture to give it a fresh new look? We love this upcycling piece by Creative Designer Leanne!
Why not try upcycling some of your old furniture to give it a fresh new look? We love this upcycling piece by Creative Designer Leanne!
Cushions
Handmade cushions are a lovely way of personalising your home! Why not try some of these designs?
For more home inspiration visit our New Home page.
Handmade cushions are a lovely way of personalising your home! Why not try some of these designs?
For more home inspiration visit our New Home page.
Hello! I'm Leanne and this is The Making Journal, a space where I can share my creative journey! So a little about me; I’m a Creative Designer for Sizzix® with a background in Surface Pattern & Textile Design, this is something I’m really passionate about and incorporate into my makes. I love using bold colours, geometric patterns and even a bit of sparkle too.
I like to gather inspiration outdoors; like in forests, fields and the beach, and love to experiment with different techniques and quirky items, like shells, tree bark, driftwood and of course ALL THINGS SHINY! Here you will find a mix of makes from home décor DIY projects to pieces of jewellery, home sewn makes and a few extra little surprises!
I’m so excited to share with you my latest makes and hope you join me in creating something special, remember to tag your makes using #themakingjournal on social media so we can see!
I like to gather inspiration outdoors; like in forests, fields and the beach, and love to experiment with different techniques and quirky items, like shells, tree bark, driftwood and of course ALL THINGS SHINY! Here you will find a mix of makes from home décor DIY projects to pieces of jewellery, home sewn makes and a few extra little surprises!
I’m so excited to share with you my latest makes and hope you join me in creating something special, remember to tag your makes using #themakingjournal on social media so we can see!
Lovely Lotus
This week I’m LOVING felt DIY’s, and I wasn’t short of inspiration! Here is a simple tutorial for you to try using the NEW Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Sweet Lotus by My Life Handmade. Wouldn’t these look great as garden table decorations? I’m picturing a warm Summers evening with prosecco and nibbles. Ooh err!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Sweet Lotus by My Life Handmade (661715)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Circle 4" (A10211)
• Some felt... of course!
• A bottle of ‘Terial Magic’ fabric stabilizer
• A make shift (or real) washing line and an iron
• Hot glue gun
• Pointed tweezers
• Embroidery needle and thread
• And a rounded tool for curling the petals
This week I’m LOVING felt DIY’s, and I wasn’t short of inspiration! Here is a simple tutorial for you to try using the NEW Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Sweet Lotus by My Life Handmade. Wouldn’t these look great as garden table decorations? I’m picturing a warm Summers evening with prosecco and nibbles. Ooh err!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Sweet Lotus by My Life Handmade (661715)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Circle 4" (A10211)
• Some felt... of course!
• A bottle of ‘Terial Magic’ fabric stabilizer
• A make shift (or real) washing line and an iron
• Hot glue gun
• Pointed tweezers
• Embroidery needle and thread
• And a rounded tool for curling the petals
How To Make:
1. Begin by stiffening your felt with ‘Terial Magic’ fabric stabiliser. For me, this was the first time using this product on felt, and I think it worked quite well! If you’re unsure on how this product works you can get an idea by watching some tutorials on YouTube.
1. Begin by stiffening your felt with ‘Terial Magic’ fabric stabiliser. For me, this was the first time using this product on felt, and I think it worked quite well! If you’re unsure on how this product works you can get an idea by watching some tutorials on YouTube.
2. Next, die-cut your pieces using machine and dies (you can use the pictures as a guide).
3. Now begin building your flower using hot glue. You can start from the centre and work down in layers, or build up from the base…whichever suits you. Fluff out the middle and put to one side while you stitch some detail on the lily pad!
4. For this project, I used blanket stitch around the entire edge, but if you are a beginner, a simple running stitch would look just as effective!
5. Once you’ve finished, put a good blob of glue on the base of your flower and stick to your lily pad! Lovely jubbly!
5. Once you’ve finished, put a good blob of glue on the base of your flower and stick to your lily pad! Lovely jubbly!
Geometric Cork Boards
Like many creatives, I can be rather messy sometimes, usually my desk in covered with colourful papers and embellishments not to mention I usually have lots of ideas buzzing around in my head! So, I decided I needed to put all my creative energy into making something to help organise my craft space. I used geometric patterns and gold accents for decoration as these are two of my favourite trends at the moment!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Circle 4" (A10211)
• 5mm Cork Sheet (Or if you can get hold of the thick stuff, do it! Make sure it's deep enough to hold your pins!)
• If using the 5mm, you will need some Stix2 double sided adhesive sheets - best stuff ever!
• Masking tape
• Paint (Here I used DecoArt Americana DECOR Chalky Finish & Bright Metallic paints)
• And of course something to paint with...
Like many creatives, I can be rather messy sometimes, usually my desk in covered with colourful papers and embellishments not to mention I usually have lots of ideas buzzing around in my head! So, I decided I needed to put all my creative energy into making something to help organise my craft space. I used geometric patterns and gold accents for decoration as these are two of my favourite trends at the moment!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Circle 4" (A10211)
• 5mm Cork Sheet (Or if you can get hold of the thick stuff, do it! Make sure it's deep enough to hold your pins!)
• If using the 5mm, you will need some Stix2 double sided adhesive sheets - best stuff ever!
• Masking tape
• Paint (Here I used DecoArt Americana DECOR Chalky Finish & Bright Metallic paints)
• And of course something to paint with...
How To Make:
1. Measure and cut your cork and adhesive sheets to size of die.
1. Measure and cut your cork and adhesive sheets to size of die.
2. Back cork with an adhesive sheet and die-cut the circle shape. Once die-cut layer two together by peeling the off backing from both circles and sticking together, making sure the edges line up. If using thick cork you can skip this step!
3. Mask off the areas, one at a time, and paint with your chosen shades. Bling up with the gold, and voila! Happy pinning!
Diamond Soap
So, I was having a mad scientist moment this week and decided to finally start exploring the potential for making moulds with Sizzix® dies, and I'm so glad I did! This project was very addictive and a LOT of fun, AND I managed to recycle some unexpected materials in the process, which is always a bonus! Find out how to make here using our NEW Thinlits™ Plus Die - Diamond Box by Debi Potter.
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Plus Machine (660020)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Plus Die - Diamond Box by Debi Potter (661701)
• Melt and pour white/transparent soap base
• Soap colourant
• Recycled eyeshadow
• Bronze leaf
• Silicone cake moulds (not suitable for baking once used for this project)
• Acetate (A4 sheet)
• Craft knife
• Hot glue gun
• Double sided tape
• Short bristled paintbrush
• Mixing sticks
• Microwaveable tub (relatively tall as the soap foams up when melting)
• A well-ventilated work area
So, I was having a mad scientist moment this week and decided to finally start exploring the potential for making moulds with Sizzix® dies, and I'm so glad I did! This project was very addictive and a LOT of fun, AND I managed to recycle some unexpected materials in the process, which is always a bonus! Find out how to make here using our NEW Thinlits™ Plus Die - Diamond Box by Debi Potter.
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Plus Machine (660020)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Plus Die - Diamond Box by Debi Potter (661701)
• Melt and pour white/transparent soap base
• Soap colourant
• Recycled eyeshadow
• Bronze leaf
• Silicone cake moulds (not suitable for baking once used for this project)
• Acetate (A4 sheet)
• Craft knife
• Hot glue gun
• Double sided tape
• Short bristled paintbrush
• Mixing sticks
• Microwaveable tub (relatively tall as the soap foams up when melting)
• A well-ventilated work area
How To Make:
1. Dig for treasure - Make your way over to that overflowing makeup drawer and sieve out all of those abandoned eyeshadow palettes that you've held on to for years and years and never worn. Now take your craft knife, open the lids and smash them up into little pieces! Ouch, I know. I must admit I did wince a little when doing this, but then...freedommmm!
I came across the idea to use eyeshadow when reading tutorials on making geode soaps, as I thought the shape of the diamond box was perfect for this fab trend! I learnt that soap is often coloured using a mineral called Mica, and that Mica dye is also used to colour makeup pigments. Fun fact of the day!
If you're not one for wearing eyeshadow, any makeup powders will work, or if you don't have any spare, try sending a mass email to the girls at work. That brought in a good hoard for me!
1. Dig for treasure - Make your way over to that overflowing makeup drawer and sieve out all of those abandoned eyeshadow palettes that you've held on to for years and years and never worn. Now take your craft knife, open the lids and smash them up into little pieces! Ouch, I know. I must admit I did wince a little when doing this, but then...freedommmm!
I came across the idea to use eyeshadow when reading tutorials on making geode soaps, as I thought the shape of the diamond box was perfect for this fab trend! I learnt that soap is often coloured using a mineral called Mica, and that Mica dye is also used to colour makeup pigments. Fun fact of the day!
If you're not one for wearing eyeshadow, any makeup powders will work, or if you don't have any spare, try sending a mass email to the girls at work. That brought in a good hoard for me!
2. Making the mould - So you need to ignore the cling film and card idea, not quite mastered that one yet! Die cut the diamond box from acetate as is, except before constructing, cut out a hole in the lid (a tad wider than above!) to leave a gap for pouring. And when sealing the box, adhere double sided tape to the underside of the tabs and stick to outer side of box (as shown in image above).
This is just to ensure there will be no imprints of the mould to your finished soap shape!
Finally, seal all edges with hot glue.
This is just to ensure there will be no imprints of the mould to your finished soap shape!
Finally, seal all edges with hot glue.
3. The fun bit - Cut and melt small amounts of soap at a time and pour into silicone cups, Add eyeshadow pigment and colourant quickly and mix well with a stick. There's no getting this wrong really. If you've added too much pigment, simply re-melt and add more soap base. Equally, if you've added too much colour, or perhaps don't like the colour, re-melt and add adjust! When set, chop into bits and add some bronze leaf if you fancy.
Oh...*note...the base soap didn't come with heating instructions, so I would recommend heating in short blasts and checking frequently. And the good thing with soap making is that if you make a mess, you can wash it away!
Oh...*note...the base soap didn't come with heating instructions, so I would recommend heating in short blasts and checking frequently. And the good thing with soap making is that if you make a mess, you can wash it away!
4. Fill it up! There was literally no method to this at all. It was my first attempt and I didn't know what to expect. I half expected the mould to melt! So, I thought I'd throw everything in to see what would happen. I first sat the mould in a cup, added some loose bronze leaf, then some chunks, then added some eyeshadow pigment, then some more chunks... basically filled to the top with stuff and poured in some soap.
Left to set... looking good so far...
Left to set... looking good so far...
5. EEEK! Carefully cut mould away with small narrow scissors.
Wahoo! Result! Nice flat surface for the most part, other than the side seal where the glue had warped the mould slightly, but so pretty. Now for some foiling! It's been brought to my attention by a colleague recently that there may be a slight obsession here getting out of hand...but everyone loves a touch of shimmer in their projects right?
Wahoo! Result! Nice flat surface for the most part, other than the side seal where the glue had warped the mould slightly, but so pretty. Now for some foiling! It's been brought to my attention by a colleague recently that there may be a slight obsession here getting out of hand...but everyone loves a touch of shimmer in their projects right?
6. FOILLL!!! - No adhesive needed. Take a little at a time with your paintbrush and dab away. Oooooh..shiny!
I'm so happy that this worked. I'd love to do this project again as a pretty clear gemstone with a little toy surprise inside...maybe a ring or colourful troll?
Thanks for reading. Watch out for more mould making projects coming up!
I'm so happy that this worked. I'd love to do this project again as a pretty clear gemstone with a little toy surprise inside...maybe a ring or colourful troll?
Thanks for reading. Watch out for more mould making projects coming up!
Watermelon Piñata
Thinking of throwing a summer party this year? Then a DIY watermelon piñata is a must! The Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Tassel-tastic by Sophie Guilar is my absolute favourite at the moment and I've been dying to make this project! You could even switch up the theme and make something more extravagant like a flying unicorn or a giant diamond! I've not had time to try it yet, but I'm pretty sure you could make a diamond piñata with our Bigz™ Plus Die - Bunting or our Framelits™ Plus Die Set 10PK - Bunting. Food for thought...
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Tassel-tastic by Sophie Guilar (661716)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Cloudy Days by Sophie Guilar (661380)
• A polystyrene (or paper) plate
• Pink tissue / green crepe
• Black card
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Spray mount
• Stix2 Ultra Clear Tape 3mm
• A suitable glue for sticking plate sides - I'd recommend hot glue for quick drying!
• Sweet treats!
Thinking of throwing a summer party this year? Then a DIY watermelon piñata is a must! The Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Tassel-tastic by Sophie Guilar is my absolute favourite at the moment and I've been dying to make this project! You could even switch up the theme and make something more extravagant like a flying unicorn or a giant diamond! I've not had time to try it yet, but I'm pretty sure you could make a diamond piñata with our Bigz™ Plus Die - Bunting or our Framelits™ Plus Die Set 10PK - Bunting. Food for thought...
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Tassel-tastic by Sophie Guilar (661716)
• Sizzix® Bigz™ Die - Cloudy Days by Sophie Guilar (661380)
• A polystyrene (or paper) plate
• Pink tissue / green crepe
• Black card
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Spray mount
• Stix2 Ultra Clear Tape 3mm
• A suitable glue for sticking plate sides - I'd recommend hot glue for quick drying!
• Sweet treats!
How To Make:
1. Measure your tissue paper to 2" larger than your polystyrene plate. Lay down flat on your work surface.
2. Place a ruler horizontally at the bottom edge of your tissue and fold to cover (as shown). Now flip the ruler over once... this should trap the loose edge so as not to fall off, then flip ruler over another 5 times. This will give you 4 tassel strips.
1. Measure your tissue paper to 2" larger than your polystyrene plate. Lay down flat on your work surface.
2. Place a ruler horizontally at the bottom edge of your tissue and fold to cover (as shown). Now flip the ruler over once... this should trap the loose edge so as not to fall off, then flip ruler over another 5 times. This will give you 4 tassel strips.
3. Press edges flat then slide ruler out. Now you want to undo the folds, and re-fold in a 'Concertina' fashion.
4. Next, place the end of the tissue strip to top left of tassel die, ensuring within the top and side edges (see image).
4. Next, place the end of the tissue strip to top left of tassel die, ensuring within the top and side edges (see image).
5. Again using the concertina fold method, fold the tissue back on itself. Ensure that the tissue is away from the tassel die edge.
6. Once fed through the Big Shot, you will end up with a strip as seen top left. Fold out carefully.
6. Once fed through the Big Shot, you will end up with a strip as seen top left. Fold out carefully.
7. Next, cut through adjoining folds. Effectively you are making 'tassel loops', so you will be cutting along the 'solid' fold.
8. For the piñata shell, cut your plate down the middle in a straight line and glue sides together (right side to right side). Attaching this way will leave a hollow in the centre for your sweets, so go ahead and fill!
8. For the piñata shell, cut your plate down the middle in a straight line and glue sides together (right side to right side). Attaching this way will leave a hollow in the centre for your sweets, so go ahead and fill!
9. Cut a wide-ish strip just longer than the plate and seal the open edge using double sided tape.
10. Now to get your 'tassel on'. Attach one edge at a time using the double-sided tape. Stick two lines of tape down on plate horizontally. Attach top edge to bottom strip, and bottom edge to top strip. This will allow you to cover ground more quickly and also allow you to 'fluff' the tassels up.
10. Now to get your 'tassel on'. Attach one edge at a time using the double-sided tape. Stick two lines of tape down on plate horizontally. Attach top edge to bottom strip, and bottom edge to top strip. This will allow you to cover ground more quickly and also allow you to 'fluff' the tassels up.
11. When full, trim away any overlap using scissors.
13. Fold in half lengthways and spray mount together. This will ensure the green trim is fully opaque. Fold in half again.
12. Take your green crepe paper and measure a strip longer than the curved edge of your piñata 'shell'. The width of the strip will need to be 4 x the size of plate 'border'.
12. Take your green crepe paper and measure a strip longer than the curved edge of your piñata 'shell'. The width of the strip will need to be 4 x the size of plate 'border'.
14. Adhere double sided tape to each side. Peel off backing a bit at a time and attach to outer edge as shown.
15. Die-cut several 'pips' from the black card using the large raindrop on the Cloudy Days Die, and glue in to place! Ta dah! I must admit, it took a bit of experimenting with the die to work out how to get as many strips as possible and how to get as long a strip as I could.
If I were to try it again, I would probably use crepe, doubled for thickness, for its lovely texture. I would also try cutting the tassel without the 'loop' effect as does a traditional piñata.
Have a play! And if you'd like to show us your version of events with this project, then link us to your photo... using #themakingjournal
If I were to try it again, I would probably use crepe, doubled for thickness, for its lovely texture. I would also try cutting the tassel without the 'loop' effect as does a traditional piñata.
Have a play! And if you'd like to show us your version of events with this project, then link us to your photo... using #themakingjournal
Cute Deer Cupcake Toppers
Needing some inspiration for your little girl's birthday party this year? These DIY gold glitter party toppers are perfect for styling up any baked goodies. Quick and easy to make with our NEW Cute Deer Mini Die by Samantha Barnett, you just won't be able to resist taking more than one!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Die Set 3PK - Cute Deer Mini by Samantha Barnett (661786)
• Some gold, sparkly card
• Small party picks
• Hot glue gun
• ...AND CAKE!
This week was one of my Sizzix colleague's birthday and I know, like me, she loves a bit of sparkle!
Just die-cut one deer for each of your cupcakes and lay down on your work surface (glittered side down). Place a blob of hot glue centrally on the reverse of the card and press in the end of your party pick. Voila!
Needing some inspiration for your little girl's birthday party this year? These DIY gold glitter party toppers are perfect for styling up any baked goodies. Quick and easy to make with our NEW Cute Deer Mini Die by Samantha Barnett, you just won't be able to resist taking more than one!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Die Set 3PK - Cute Deer Mini by Samantha Barnett (661786)
• Some gold, sparkly card
• Small party picks
• Hot glue gun
• ...AND CAKE!
This week was one of my Sizzix colleague's birthday and I know, like me, she loves a bit of sparkle!
Just die-cut one deer for each of your cupcakes and lay down on your work surface (glittered side down). Place a blob of hot glue centrally on the reverse of the card and press in the end of your party pick. Voila!
Upcycled Desk Tidy
Add some colourful geometrics to your creative workspace with this DIY Upcycled Desk Tidy project using our NEW Framelits™ Little Bunting Mini Die. A definite must for your Sizzix die collection.
Any 80’s kids out there remember ‘Get Set’ craft kits? I must have had every single one! I’ve been reminiscing about these recently and the ‘Get Set Discovering Mosaics’ came to mind when this desk tidy was bestowed to me by the previous Sizzix® designer... and what better die to mosaic with?!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Framelits™ Die Set 2PK - Little Bunting Mini (661780) (this project uses the littlest of the 2 dies, but feel free to use the bigger one if you prefer a more abstract look)
• Your old, stained desk tidy that you were thinking of throwing away. Go on…go and fish it out of the bin. • Some fine sandpaper
• Some Stix2 Adhesive Remover – brilliant stuff!
• Chalk paint in your chosen colour and some clear chalk paint wax
• Large flat paintbrush
• Lint free cloth
• A selection of coloured/wood effect card stock
• White card
• Craft knife, metal ruler and cutting mat
• Stix2 Double sided adhesive sheets
• PVA glue (preferably with thin nib as the mosaic part will be a little fiddly)
So away we go...
Add some colourful geometrics to your creative workspace with this DIY Upcycled Desk Tidy project using our NEW Framelits™ Little Bunting Mini Die. A definite must for your Sizzix die collection.
Any 80’s kids out there remember ‘Get Set’ craft kits? I must have had every single one! I’ve been reminiscing about these recently and the ‘Get Set Discovering Mosaics’ came to mind when this desk tidy was bestowed to me by the previous Sizzix® designer... and what better die to mosaic with?!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Framelits™ Die Set 2PK - Little Bunting Mini (661780) (this project uses the littlest of the 2 dies, but feel free to use the bigger one if you prefer a more abstract look)
• Your old, stained desk tidy that you were thinking of throwing away. Go on…go and fish it out of the bin. • Some fine sandpaper
• Some Stix2 Adhesive Remover – brilliant stuff!
• Chalk paint in your chosen colour and some clear chalk paint wax
• Large flat paintbrush
• Lint free cloth
• A selection of coloured/wood effect card stock
• White card
• Craft knife, metal ruler and cutting mat
• Stix2 Double sided adhesive sheets
• PVA glue (preferably with thin nib as the mosaic part will be a little fiddly)
So away we go...
How To Make:
Cleaning up your box...
1. It might be an idea to wipe down with a damp cloth before going straight in for the kill with adhesive remover as I did. It just smears the bits from one place to another! Apply with kitchen paper or the like. Great for removing sticky foam pads that have escaped from their backing.
2. Lightly sand the surface of the box and brush away any dust. If you have a box with a ‘plasticy’ finish like mine, this will give it better grip for the paint to stick.
Cleaning up your box...
1. It might be an idea to wipe down with a damp cloth before going straight in for the kill with adhesive remover as I did. It just smears the bits from one place to another! Apply with kitchen paper or the like. Great for removing sticky foam pads that have escaped from their backing.
2. Lightly sand the surface of the box and brush away any dust. If you have a box with a ‘plasticy’ finish like mine, this will give it better grip for the paint to stick.
3. Using a nice wide, flat paintbrush, give the box a thin coat of paint and wait to dry. It can be a little tricky to get to the bottom of the inner compartments with your brush. You can either be careful and patient in this situation, or just bypass these areas…they’ll only get dirty again when you fill it with pencils!
4. Sand the box again lightly and brush away dust. If you are painting a box with a darker colour, you may need a second coat, and don’t worry if when dry you notice any drips or bumps in the paintwork. These will easily sand away.
5. Now for sealing! With the lint-free cloth, lightly coat the entire box (including the base) and wipe away excess. The manufacturer’s instructions may differ on the wax that you have, but with this one, it was recommended to wait 24hours before buffing for a higher shine.
Right...ready for the fun bit!
5. Now for sealing! With the lint-free cloth, lightly coat the entire box (including the base) and wipe away excess. The manufacturer’s instructions may differ on the wax that you have, but with this one, it was recommended to wait 24hours before buffing for a higher shine.
Right...ready for the fun bit!
Mosaicking (Yes that is a word…I had to look it up!)
6. Cut loads and loads of multi-coloured triangles in all the pretty colours!
6. Cut loads and loads of multi-coloured triangles in all the pretty colours!
7. Measure the area you wish to cover and cut a piece of white card approximately 1” larger.
8. Using a thin nib PVA applicator, mosaic your coloured triangles using the image as a guide. I did spend a few minutes working out colour sequence here, but 2 rows in I lost track. But if you squint your eyes a little you can work out where the lights, darks and mid tones need to sit to give the pattern good balance.
8. Using a thin nib PVA applicator, mosaic your coloured triangles using the image as a guide. I did spend a few minutes working out colour sequence here, but 2 rows in I lost track. But if you squint your eyes a little you can work out where the lights, darks and mid tones need to sit to give the pattern good balance.
9. When your panel is complete, back the card with double sided adhesive sheet and cut down to correct size using a craft knife and ruler. Straight edges important if fitting to a tight space!
10. Peel off backing and stick into place!
I’m quite pleased with the results on this project! Now... what to do with these millions of triangles left over?
10. Peel off backing and stick into place!
I’m quite pleased with the results on this project! Now... what to do with these millions of triangles left over?
Geometric Bookmarks
I’ve been on a bit of a rampage this week in the design room; de-cluttering, re-organising and attempting to put some sort of system in place for tools, props and projects. Let’s just say I opened a MASSIVE ‘can of worms’ and gave up rather quickly! But, it brought me to realise that I MAY have a slight craft hoarding issue, and that it MAY be something I need to consider addressing before it gets out of hand... so, I threw that thought aside (for now) and made some pretty bookmarks with the left-over triangles from my desk tidy project the other week. Enjoy!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Framelits™ Die Set 2PK - Little Bunting Mini (661780) (this project uses the littlest of the 2 dies, but feel free to use the bigger one if you prefer a more abstract look)
• Selection of coloured/wood effect card stock
• White card
• Craft knife, metal ruler and cutting mat
• PVA glue
• Embroidery thread
• Scissors
• Laminator and an A4 laminating pouch
• Hole punch
I’ve been on a bit of a rampage this week in the design room; de-cluttering, re-organising and attempting to put some sort of system in place for tools, props and projects. Let’s just say I opened a MASSIVE ‘can of worms’ and gave up rather quickly! But, it brought me to realise that I MAY have a slight craft hoarding issue, and that it MAY be something I need to consider addressing before it gets out of hand... so, I threw that thought aside (for now) and made some pretty bookmarks with the left-over triangles from my desk tidy project the other week. Enjoy!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Framelits™ Die Set 2PK - Little Bunting Mini (661780) (this project uses the littlest of the 2 dies, but feel free to use the bigger one if you prefer a more abstract look)
• Selection of coloured/wood effect card stock
• White card
• Craft knife, metal ruler and cutting mat
• PVA glue
• Embroidery thread
• Scissors
• Laminator and an A4 laminating pouch
• Hole punch
How To Make:
1. If you haven’t already got a big batch of ready prepared die cut triangles in your craft room, which I’ll assume you haven’t, take the smaller of the dies in the ‘Little Bunting’ die set and get cutting!
2. When done, mosaic them onto white card using a thin-nibbed PVA glue applicator. To make 2 bookmarks, I mosaicked a panel measuring 16cm x 16cm and cut in half.
3. Sandwich the bookmarks between the laminator sheet and feed through machine at recommended temperature. Make sure that you leave plenty of room between as you will be cutting around.
1. If you haven’t already got a big batch of ready prepared die cut triangles in your craft room, which I’ll assume you haven’t, take the smaller of the dies in the ‘Little Bunting’ die set and get cutting!
2. When done, mosaic them onto white card using a thin-nibbed PVA glue applicator. To make 2 bookmarks, I mosaicked a panel measuring 16cm x 16cm and cut in half.
3. Sandwich the bookmarks between the laminator sheet and feed through machine at recommended temperature. Make sure that you leave plenty of room between as you will be cutting around.
4. Leaving a few millimetres all the way around your bookmarks, cut out with craft knife and ruler, and round off any sharp corners with scissors.
5. Hole punch a single hole at top.
5. Hole punch a single hole at top.
6. Now to make the tassels. Wrap embroidery thread around your fingers several times as shown in image, and cut through all strands at one end.
7. Cut a separate length of thread and thread one end through hole. Tie in knot approx. 1cm down.
8. Lay tassel centrally between the strands of the tied thread and double knot. Bring all strands together.
9. Cut another separate length of thread and wrap around tassel, 2 or 3 times, a little over 1cm from the top. Double knot to secure.
9. Cut another separate length of thread and wrap around tassel, 2 or 3 times, a little over 1cm from the top. Double knot to secure.
10. When happy with the look of your tassel, bring together all strands at ends and chop to the same length! It always reminds me, when making tassels and pom-poms, of playing hairdressers when I was little with my younger sister Sarah. Yes, with real scissors, and yes with real hair!
Boho Garden Party Table
If you’re new to following the blog, then you may not have seen my very first make for Nightingale House. After working on that project I came to realise that upcycling furniture takes some work! But I just love using wood in my projects so much! And when I came across this cute little coffee table I couldn’t resist. This time, I thought I’d have a go at learning the ‘Barn Wood’ distressing technique. As you can see, you can create some beautiful effects!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Die - Little Butterfly Mini by Samantha Barnett (661790)
• An old coffee table
• White chalk paint
• A wide paint brush
• Some 40-60 grit sandpaper (or a detail sander works a treat!)
• A little water
• Some dark coloured wood stain – here I used ‘Dark Oak’
• White spirit
• Lint free cloths
• Some contact paper and masking tape
• Craft knife
• Clear soft furniture wax
How To Make:
Before getting started, make sure you are working in a well ventilated, and preferably, outside area with some good protective eye goggles and a dust mask. Things are about to get dusty!!
1. Sand your wood well and wipe off sawdust with some white spirit on a lint free cloth.
This coffee table had a particularly thick layer of varnish on it, so it took a bit of scrubbing. But worth the effort when I discovered the wood underneath!
If you’re new to following the blog, then you may not have seen my very first make for Nightingale House. After working on that project I came to realise that upcycling furniture takes some work! But I just love using wood in my projects so much! And when I came across this cute little coffee table I couldn’t resist. This time, I thought I’d have a go at learning the ‘Barn Wood’ distressing technique. As you can see, you can create some beautiful effects!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Die - Little Butterfly Mini by Samantha Barnett (661790)
• An old coffee table
• White chalk paint
• A wide paint brush
• Some 40-60 grit sandpaper (or a detail sander works a treat!)
• A little water
• Some dark coloured wood stain – here I used ‘Dark Oak’
• White spirit
• Lint free cloths
• Some contact paper and masking tape
• Craft knife
• Clear soft furniture wax
How To Make:
Before getting started, make sure you are working in a well ventilated, and preferably, outside area with some good protective eye goggles and a dust mask. Things are about to get dusty!!
1. Sand your wood well and wipe off sawdust with some white spirit on a lint free cloth.
This coffee table had a particularly thick layer of varnish on it, so it took a bit of scrubbing. But worth the effort when I discovered the wood underneath!
2. Make a white wash mixture by combining 1 part water to 1 part paint and leaving to settle. Apply in long strokes using a wide paint brush, then with a lint free cloth, smear the mixture into the wood. Allow to fully dry.
3. For this project, I followed an online tutorial which said to rub the wood stain over with a lint free cloth, however, I’m not sure it worked the way it should as it appeared to move the chalk paint around creating a cloudy finish. But I had to run with it as I wasn’t starting again!
Maybe the white wash would be better sanded down before applying the stain... one to try next time!
3. For this project, I followed an online tutorial which said to rub the wood stain over with a lint free cloth, however, I’m not sure it worked the way it should as it appeared to move the chalk paint around creating a cloudy finish. But I had to run with it as I wasn’t starting again!
Maybe the white wash would be better sanded down before applying the stain... one to try next time!
4. Next, stencil the butterflies by die cutting them from little squares of contact paper and line them up along a strip of tape. Here, I positioned them centrally in each ‘scallop’ of the table’s edge.
5. Using just a basic crafting sponge (or stiff bristled brush), stencil your design with neat chalk paint!
Jeez that stuff is bright! Sand back a little... and a little bit more…right, if you’re happy with these results, then great! Get waxing!
OR... go and get the white paint back out. Go on.
This last stage was a bit tricky as I have never dry brushed before, but instead of doing the logical thing and looking up how to do it online, I thought I’d wing it! It went a little like this...
1. Dip brush in paint
2. Brush off excess
3. Brush onto wood
4. Sand back off as I didn’t like it
Whatever happened, it turned out beautiful!
Jeez that stuff is bright! Sand back a little... and a little bit more…right, if you’re happy with these results, then great! Get waxing!
OR... go and get the white paint back out. Go on.
This last stage was a bit tricky as I have never dry brushed before, but instead of doing the logical thing and looking up how to do it online, I thought I’d wing it! It went a little like this...
1. Dip brush in paint
2. Brush off excess
3. Brush onto wood
4. Sand back off as I didn’t like it
Whatever happened, it turned out beautiful!
6. Wax wood with lint free cloth and buff!
So, my first attempt at weathered wood? Not bad, not bad. I think it definitely gives off that rustic vibe, so I’m happy with that.
So, my first attempt at weathered wood? Not bad, not bad. I think it definitely gives off that rustic vibe, so I’m happy with that.
Frosted Treat Jar
Liked the frosted glass makes from last week? Then why not try something bigger! I rescued this old glass canister from the recycling bins at Nightingale House and vamped it up with some pretty frosted butterflies. It looked so lovely on my summer party table, I almost didn’t want to eat the treats inside... almost.
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Die - Little Butterfly Mini by Samantha Barnett (661790)
• A large glass jar/canister
• Spray adhesive
• Frosted glass spray paint
• A4 cartridge paper
• Masking tape
• Stix2 adhesive remover
How To Make:
1. Begin by measuring both the height and circumference of the flat surface of your jar, and using the die, roughly work out how many butterflies, vertically and horizontally, you can fit in the space.
Liked the frosted glass makes from last week? Then why not try something bigger! I rescued this old glass canister from the recycling bins at Nightingale House and vamped it up with some pretty frosted butterflies. It looked so lovely on my summer party table, I almost didn’t want to eat the treats inside... almost.
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Die - Little Butterfly Mini by Samantha Barnett (661790)
• A large glass jar/canister
• Spray adhesive
• Frosted glass spray paint
• A4 cartridge paper
• Masking tape
• Stix2 adhesive remover
How To Make:
1. Begin by measuring both the height and circumference of the flat surface of your jar, and using the die, roughly work out how many butterflies, vertically and horizontally, you can fit in the space.
2. Once you have worked out the width and height of each (vertical) row, add 1cm to both those measurements and cut appropriate number of paper strips to that size. For example, this jar worked out as 7 vertical rows of 4 butterflies. With the number of butterflies being an even one, I could fold the paper into quarters and die cut them centrally in each square (if I have confused you at this point, the picture should make it clearer).
3. Die-cut butterflies from the paper strips. We will be using the outer part of the paper stencil for the project so discard the butterflies. If you check out the make from last time, you will notice I have used paper in place of contact paper. Just thought I’d try both methods, and it works just as well!
3. Die-cut butterflies from the paper strips. We will be using the outer part of the paper stencil for the project so discard the butterflies. If you check out the make from last time, you will notice I have used paper in place of contact paper. Just thought I’d try both methods, and it works just as well!
4. Using a light coating of photo spray adhesive, position and stick all stencils into place on the jar.
5. Mask the areas you don’t want to paint with tape.
5. Mask the areas you don’t want to paint with tape.
6. Following the product instructions, spray paint on your design. A few thin coats were applied here, including a re-coat after 20 minutes. This will ensure that the design will stay on through washing.
Note: This project can be washed with a soft cloth but will not withstand harsh scrubbing, nor will it survive the dishwasher!
I feel a mass organisation of my food cupboards coming on... and we have some lovely new brush lettering dies to help label! Oh, the little things.
Note: This project can be washed with a soft cloth but will not withstand harsh scrubbing, nor will it survive the dishwasher!
I feel a mass organisation of my food cupboards coming on... and we have some lovely new brush lettering dies to help label! Oh, the little things.
Frosted Feather Picnic Tumblers
It’s time again for another upcycling make for our local charity, Nightingale House, and this time around, I thought it would be nice to give you some project ideas to help get ready for the summer season! These trendy feather tumblers were made using the NEW Little Feather Mini Die, some contact paper and a bit of frosted glass spray paint. Easy Peasy!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Die - Little Feather Mini by Sophie Guilar (661791)
• Contact paper (this is the sticky backed stuff you find in the decorating aisle – try your local pound shop!)
• Some frosted glass spray paint
• Kitchen roll
• Masking tape
• Craft knife
• Stix2 adhesive remover
• Some glass tumblers
How To Make:
1. Begin by die cutting multiple feathers from your contact paper using machine and die. The bigger your cups, the more feathers you’ll need!
It’s time again for another upcycling make for our local charity, Nightingale House, and this time around, I thought it would be nice to give you some project ideas to help get ready for the summer season! These trendy feather tumblers were made using the NEW Little Feather Mini Die, some contact paper and a bit of frosted glass spray paint. Easy Peasy!
You Will Need:
• Sizzix® Big Shot™ Machine (660200)
• Sizzix® Thinlits™ Die - Little Feather Mini by Sophie Guilar (661791)
• Contact paper (this is the sticky backed stuff you find in the decorating aisle – try your local pound shop!)
• Some frosted glass spray paint
• Kitchen roll
• Masking tape
• Craft knife
• Stix2 adhesive remover
• Some glass tumblers
How To Make:
1. Begin by die cutting multiple feathers from your contact paper using machine and die. The bigger your cups, the more feathers you’ll need!
2. Peel off backing and stick feathers onto your cup in a pretty design (use image as a guide if you wish).
3. Mask all other areas that you want to protect from paint with masking tape and stuff your cup with kitchen paper.
3. Mask all other areas that you want to protect from paint with masking tape and stuff your cup with kitchen paper.
4. Following the product instructions, spray paint the gaps. For this project, a few thin coats were applied, including a re-coat 20 minutes later.
Note: This project can be washed with a soft cloth but will not withstand harsh scrubbing, nor will it survive the dishwasher!
This method would be great for dressing up some of my charity shop bought cocktail glasses. Give it a go!
Note: This project can be washed with a soft cloth but will not withstand harsh scrubbing, nor will it survive the dishwasher!
This method would be great for dressing up some of my charity shop bought cocktail glasses. Give it a go!
