tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71590238192595402482024-03-13T07:02:32.505-07:00Yarns and ButtonsLeTranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09592743010865334300noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-66404208383076407442017-03-15T21:48:00.002-07:002017-03-15T21:48:55.740-07:00Fix Loose or Skewed Neckline with DartsI love it when other people's mistakes benefit me. In this case, my coworker washed and dried her cute tartan dress, unfortunately shrinking it in the process. Now that it's a size smaller, she handed it down to me. <br />
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It fits me perfectly in its shrunken condition, except the neckline was loose and slightly skewed from the heat. Look at this poor neckline in the front AND back. So unattractive. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WH-fDkqV5Hk/WMoXGVIDZWI/AAAAAAAABl4/KhTV0Ezz42QUCTEdK7bY88_KpTB6ARzvACLcB/s1600/IMG_7680.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WH-fDkqV5Hk/WMoXGVIDZWI/AAAAAAAABl4/KhTV0Ezz42QUCTEdK7bY88_KpTB6ARzvACLcB/s320/IMG_7680.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xbUzy5yOTGA/WMoXGTz5lbI/AAAAAAAABl8/IYsb7ZHVyWYp3OXUACGMAXNyaxmypoMgwCLcB/s1600/IMG_7681.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xbUzy5yOTGA/WMoXGTz5lbI/AAAAAAAABl8/IYsb7ZHVyWYp3OXUACGMAXNyaxmypoMgwCLcB/s320/IMG_7681.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X8f_3nmxfz0/WMoXIbmSyEI/AAAAAAAABmA/Fx38rA4CXFgh5ALkVJyIBFFHAG7uYB-ZACLcB/s1600/IMG_7682.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X8f_3nmxfz0/WMoXIbmSyEI/AAAAAAAABmA/Fx38rA4CXFgh5ALkVJyIBFFHAG7uYB-ZACLcB/s320/IMG_7682.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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I find that adding darts will pull the neckline in. Technically I should remove the neckline, add darts, and sew the neckline back up. But I can't sew necklines to save my life, so to avoid ruining the entire dress, I opted for this lazy way. <br />
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I added two darts in the front and two in the back. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QTn3uXtXWNg/WMoXiyg-F3I/AAAAAAAABmE/XOlSulpsX4k8_iGd2pElzOrdCzAeA5_xgCLcB/s1600/IMG_7683.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QTn3uXtXWNg/WMoXiyg-F3I/AAAAAAAABmE/XOlSulpsX4k8_iGd2pElzOrdCzAeA5_xgCLcB/s320/IMG_7683.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iL3W4mvmPjk/WMoXk7nBZqI/AAAAAAAABmI/KpjqInSV5fs2vutmv_x9FXJn_kIHAmSfACLcB/s1600/IMG_7684.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iL3W4mvmPjk/WMoXk7nBZqI/AAAAAAAABmI/KpjqInSV5fs2vutmv_x9FXJn_kIHAmSfACLcB/s320/IMG_7684.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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After adding the darts, the neckline instantly hugs the neck. Bam.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g81URlHqjhI/WMoYj5HvuQI/AAAAAAAABmQ/muCPc_fSAcYXDUvrYS1OaDm4tWAmfMjOQCLcB/s1600/IMG_7686.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g81URlHqjhI/WMoYj5HvuQI/AAAAAAAABmQ/muCPc_fSAcYXDUvrYS1OaDm4tWAmfMjOQCLcB/s320/IMG_7686.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp3B5Yc_trg/WMoYt1xvEBI/AAAAAAAABmU/OhYE-f9UY8AxqmSrkLMPyXXjrjbUr9qQACLcB/s1600/IMG_7687.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp3B5Yc_trg/WMoYt1xvEBI/AAAAAAAABmU/OhYE-f9UY8AxqmSrkLMPyXXjrjbUr9qQACLcB/s320/IMG_7687.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--5C0O-7wLN0/WMoYzCVq6XI/AAAAAAAABmY/kFLONH8UJzwJIpdxJL-6i0KNNpkhHjnogCLcB/s1600/IMG_7688.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--5C0O-7wLN0/WMoYzCVq6XI/AAAAAAAABmY/kFLONH8UJzwJIpdxJL-6i0KNNpkhHjnogCLcB/s320/IMG_7688.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M5JoC78P3h0/WMoY5HbUuGI/AAAAAAAABmc/XhRvMk-y_aIBWXoEPJZl_B_gu6TOXmvjACLcB/s1600/IMG_7685.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M5JoC78P3h0/WMoY5HbUuGI/AAAAAAAABmc/XhRvMk-y_aIBWXoEPJZl_B_gu6TOXmvjACLcB/s320/IMG_7685.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-80606459367654087512017-02-20T22:32:00.004-08:002017-02-20T22:32:35.840-08:00Fatten Up That Flat Body Pillow<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UgmLnV0qGhU/WKvc9Pq_0hI/AAAAAAAABj0/f4ocLu5NGKAsRJSATZINxjGxjk3C8HuxACLcB/s1600/IMG_9502_beforeafter.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UgmLnV0qGhU/WKvc9Pq_0hI/AAAAAAAABj0/f4ocLu5NGKAsRJSATZINxjGxjk3C8HuxACLcB/s320/IMG_9502_beforeafter.jpg" width="320" height="279" /></a><br />
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Growing up in Vietnam, body pillows are the staple of a bedroom the way oil is a staple in the pantry. Every bedroom has a body pillow, except they're round like a sausage. Kids have small sausage pillows. Adults have big sausage pillows. Everyone and their mama has sausage pillows. (That sounds almost wrong.)<br />
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Here in the U.S., body pillows are more like regular pillows, only longer. They're also not as important, although I find sleeping with a body pillow is comforting, like cuddling a man that doesn't snore and judge you for wanting to cuddle all the time.<br />
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My body pillow from Target was one of my most coveted bedroom items, except that as years flew by, it got flatter and flatter, like my chest. My sister said "new pillow time!" But I wasn't ready. My body pillow and I had a long healthy relationship. Fortunately longer than my relationships with men. So I hung on to the old body pillow and came up with a brilliant plan to fatten it up. <br />
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I had an old comforter that I loved dearly. We also had a long relationship. Unlike the body pillow, the comforter was a goner. The cats destroyed it. I couldn't bring myself to save it, but it was in such a crappy shape that I don't think thrift stores would even take it. If I threw it away, my mother would drag it back to her house because she dumpster dives and hoards everything. I was in a pickle, so I decided to take the innards of the comforter and stuff it into the pillow. Some relationships can be salvaged. Others can't. But it doesn't mean I must say goodbye to both completely. <br />
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That's not to say that you should cut up your good comforter just to save a body pillow. There's no reason to destroy a good relationship just to improve another. But if there's an old comforter or pillows lying around that house that you could use to resurrect your flat body pillow, give this method a try. <br />
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Flat pillow, almost naked in all its glory. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVUwuv6bUJM/WKvWrULvcoI/AAAAAAAABic/bfN3mIOIRbswLUhFz5idDUtlTb2GznSZgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9502.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVUwuv6bUJM/WKvWrULvcoI/AAAAAAAABic/bfN3mIOIRbswLUhFz5idDUtlTb2GznSZgCLcB/s320/IMG_9502.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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Once beautiful, now crappy comforter, like an old supermodel. Beauty is never forever.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I7JKz10FWgU/WKvWtXq88oI/AAAAAAAABig/8LUhP-aT0JwobRNJjw_CGWEa8UsXs-sJwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9503.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I7JKz10FWgU/WKvWtXq88oI/AAAAAAAABig/8LUhP-aT0JwobRNJjw_CGWEa8UsXs-sJwCLcB/s320/IMG_9503.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q0UjX2mot5A/WKvWvwIcCgI/AAAAAAAABik/clb9Qaxy7QsYFcgNG-5RBtbtuDHXnmD9gCLcB/s1600/IMG_9504.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q0UjX2mot5A/WKvWvwIcCgI/AAAAAAAABik/clb9Qaxy7QsYFcgNG-5RBtbtuDHXnmD9gCLcB/s320/IMG_9504.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3KCLVC_IB08/WKvWzFTFLrI/AAAAAAAABio/H5Skj2xZOToW78XvWXT4KpMu68ZqD5JTgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9505.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3KCLVC_IB08/WKvWzFTFLrI/AAAAAAAABio/H5Skj2xZOToW78XvWXT4KpMu68ZqD5JTgCLcB/s320/IMG_9505.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a><br />
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Snip off one end of the pillow to expose the innards.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BjX5vIhiIpU/WKvW00HR-XI/AAAAAAAABis/U4k3Efd1zPIUBI-KzyOPAspcExwpxbkLgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9506.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BjX5vIhiIpU/WKvW00HR-XI/AAAAAAAABis/U4k3Efd1zPIUBI-KzyOPAspcExwpxbkLgCLcB/s320/IMG_9506.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6C1TkkJ_HS0/WKvW29-shYI/AAAAAAAABiw/jb-bjChbNjoXaugTNZnWm_LE7cgwMEcGgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9507.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6C1TkkJ_HS0/WKvW29-shYI/AAAAAAAABiw/jb-bjChbNjoXaugTNZnWm_LE7cgwMEcGgCLcB/s320/IMG_9507.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a><br />
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Snip open the comforter to expose the innards.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IcJEhrrImJM/WKvW5KvO3xI/AAAAAAAABi0/DVRSPJqLeCkZOrs6jFTIA5C816R61HAmACLcB/s1600/IMG_9508.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IcJEhrrImJM/WKvW5KvO3xI/AAAAAAAABi0/DVRSPJqLeCkZOrs6jFTIA5C816R61HAmACLcB/s320/IMG_9508.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_sF3WifRgPM/WKvW9H_C68I/AAAAAAAABi4/X2RRXD9vLvwKofKd6kwqQHsB7zuBTJFJgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9509.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_sF3WifRgPM/WKvW9H_C68I/AAAAAAAABi4/X2RRXD9vLvwKofKd6kwqQHsB7zuBTJFJgCLcB/s320/IMG_9509.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a><br />
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Fold the comforter innards to match the shape of the body pillow. Pile it on top. Or below. Whatever floats your pillow boat.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wzfaKhCgBx8/WKvXAx1lbrI/AAAAAAAABjA/vurwG3ZtQNsndmQigx9om3exoEkWkMxsACLcB/s1600/IMG_9511.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wzfaKhCgBx8/WKvXAx1lbrI/AAAAAAAABjA/vurwG3ZtQNsndmQigx9om3exoEkWkMxsACLcB/s320/IMG_9511.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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I did an extra step and serged the edges of the pillow case. Optional.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPjSmURWGho/WKvXCzL4DHI/AAAAAAAABjE/Kc5mgTyRj34qSx6JzG0ImQpXdPl59PO4gCLcB/s1600/IMG_9512.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPjSmURWGho/WKvXCzL4DHI/AAAAAAAABjE/Kc5mgTyRj34qSx6JzG0ImQpXdPl59PO4gCLcB/s320/IMG_9512.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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Stuff the innards into the beautiful body of the pillow case. BAM. Full and beautiful. Who said skinny is beautiful? Not me. I've made myself the perfect man pillow that won't snore and complain when I cuddle him. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X7oS4zo_JZc/WKvXFd-k5BI/AAAAAAAABjI/H8SeFMvLrEghJ3uktw_oEKIsKo2lWK5OQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9514.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X7oS4zo_JZc/WKvXFd-k5BI/AAAAAAAABjI/H8SeFMvLrEghJ3uktw_oEKIsKo2lWK5OQCLcB/s320/IMG_9514.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EjJ5o20VEe8/WKvYA92hv1I/AAAAAAAABjU/ekfRgC0yln0IYU0iTztW5CSqRpEVnC0oQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9513.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EjJ5o20VEe8/WKvYA92hv1I/AAAAAAAABjU/ekfRgC0yln0IYU0iTztW5CSqRpEVnC0oQCLcB/s320/IMG_9513.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a><br />
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Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-70759185244365913832016-06-26T13:04:00.000-07:002016-06-26T13:05:58.348-07:00The $4.75/Day Experiment<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's been a while since I've last update this blog. I don't know what happened. I think life got less boring and now it's boring again so I'm back!
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Let's start with some updates. I work for Habitat For Humanity of Greater San Francisco now. This is important because it leads to the experiment. Recently, on one of our job sites, we have a group of <a href="http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps/americorps-nccc">AmeriCorps NCCC</a> volunteers. It stands for AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps. I was asking our construction manager for some boxes so I could start my "donate/throw away" pile (this is a whole other life experiment) and she said to save some for the NCCC folks. Why? Because in the Bay Area (and some counties in California) there's a ban on plastic shopping bags so if you go shopping and need a bag for your stuff, you have to pay $0.10 or $0.25 at some places. Anyhow, the NCCC folks only get $4.75/day for food stipend so they can't afford to spend $0.10 for shopping bags. This blew my mind. You can't even get a cheap ass sandwich for $4.75! And we live in the Bay Area!
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These volunteers are living in Novato, CA, where the median household income in 2014 is at $76,609. The median household income of the whole US is at $53,482 according to the US Census Bureau. That's the long way of saying that we live in a fucking expensive area.
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Since I though living on $4.75/day for food is pretty ridiculous, I decided to take it upon myself to see if it's possible. So starting on June 18, 2016, I set out of eat frugally. However, since I didn't want to put too much pressure on myself and I also don't believe in self-torture, these rules were set:
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1. Whatever, that I have in my place that is already half-way used/opened, I will not count toward the weekly budget. <br>
2. I don't count salt, pepper, spices, etc. that I already have at home.<br>
3. Free food is free and doesn't get counted. A real AmeriCorps would NEVER say no to free food!<br>
4. I would try to keep going out with my friends at a minimum and will not count it as a part of my budget because if I go out once, that would blow my budget for the whole week. I also would like to keep in touch with my friends using our normal activities (eat like gluttons) and not be a hermit for the month. <br>
5. To normalize thing, weekly costs of food will be kept but average cost per day will only be calculated at the end of the experiment period. <br>
6. I have to eat a balance diet. I cannot cheat by just eating peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches or ramen.<br><br>
With that being said, behold the <b>spreadsheet</b> (click on it for a better view):
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/27307249324/in/dateposted-public/" title="Screen Shot 2016-06-26 at 12.04.30 PM"><img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7354/27307249324_0872ae2981_b.jpg" width="701" height="588" alt="Screen Shot 2016-06-26 at 12.04.30 PM"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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As you can see, I spent a total of $24.18 on food I ate this week (not counting free food). The weekly budget is set at $33.25.
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Breakfast for the last week looked like this:
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/27818739172/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_20160618_100422"><img src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7610/27818739172_cac1e08bd2.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="IMG_20160618_100422"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Typical meal looked like this:
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/27641666330/in/album-72157670269473165/" title="IMG_20160618_120453"><img src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7661/27641666330_7ff2888b51.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="IMG_20160618_120453"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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A few observations from the past week:
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1. There's a small voice saying "I'm hungry" in the back of my head all the time.<br>
2. I take full advantage of free snacks at work. That means I ate a lot of M&M candies and Oreo cookies. <br>
3. My friend Emily thinks that I'm a starving child so she invited me to dinner and fed me food. She also packed leftovers for me so I got a bunch of free meals from Emily.<br>
4. My friend Helen also made me a free sandwich and gave me an avocado. <br>
5. Afraid of going over budget, I tend to not eat a lot which affected my weight lifting abilities. I struggle to meet my ever increasing goals to lift more weight each time I hit the gym. <br>
6. Overall, I'm not dying. <br>
7. It helps to not eat meat. I did eat some shrimps I have left in my fridge and tilapia. <br>
8. My poop smelled like plant materials. There's that green smell.<br>
9. Seeing that I am under budget. I will allow myself to eat more food next week. <br>
10. I only eat oatmeal for breakfast everyday. <br>
11. I supplemented my protein intake with protein powder (because I really really need to build muscles) and didn't count that as a part of the budget because I have half a jug of protein already.<br>
12. I made a corn and black bean salsa but didn't eat it at all last week. It'll be saved for this coming week.<br>
13. I only went out to eat with my friends once this week. I made to sure eat at home before hand so I wouldn't go full force and order a lot of food. <br><br>
Why does it say $4.95/day experiment on the spreadsheet but it's actual $4.75/day, you ask? Because originally I thought it was $4.95/day but later found out that it was actually lower than that!
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Overall, I think I'm having fun with this experiment. It makes me get creative. I have to give up on a lot of my favorite foods. I can't just go and get sashimi or buy a tub of ice cream. <br><br>
I'm actually surprise at how supportive my friends are with this experiment. If my parents know about this originally they would try to send me free food which will defeat the whole purpose of the experiment! Until next time, all! LeTranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09592743010865334300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-71962973303060697252015-02-27T19:53:00.001-08:002015-02-27T19:54:20.472-08:00Orchids in bloom again :)This time I'll post phalaenopsis orchids since I have a bunch of them in bloom. Enjoy!<br />
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Phalaenopsis Kerble Yelow <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DmFbKH5IZrA/VPE6JDOEGqI/AAAAAAAABVA/wbpJiEeQNvM/s1600/_MG_3391.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DmFbKH5IZrA/VPE6JDOEGqI/AAAAAAAABVA/wbpJiEeQNvM/s320/_MG_3391.JPG" /></a><br />
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Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-76360909321463204652015-01-28T20:51:00.001-08:002015-01-28T20:51:36.675-08:00Orchids in bloomI promised my sister I was going to post these glorious pictures of my orchids in bloom, made possible by her generous gift in the form of a professional flash for my camera. These have not been retouched. Are these perfect, or are they perfect? ;)<br />
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Phalaenopsis with green petals, purple sprays, and pink lips. <br />
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Wilsonara Opalescent 'Springtime'<br />
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Green phalaenopsis with mostly dark red veins.<br />
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White phalaenopsis with pink lips. <br />
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Dendrobium Sweet Pinky 'Love' from Yamamoto orchids. <br />
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More to come later!Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-25363136602481498352015-01-07T23:07:00.001-08:002015-01-09T22:53:42.323-08:00Stick Art<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I saw this <a href="http://www.creativeinchicago.com/2013/07/driftwood-seahorse-tutorial.html">Driftwood Seahorse</a> thing on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/330803535104674342/">Pinterest</a> and thought it was a cool idea. Then I saw that my dad was trimming the birch trees and were throwing away a bunch of small branches. I thought to myself that maybe I can try to be artsy and make my own woody wall art. By the way, my sister was the one who had the bright idea of using the birch branches. I would have just collected sticks on the ground.
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So I dragged in a couple of branches and spent some good time trimming them down to bare branches. <br>
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I also cut out this silhouette from a random piece of cardboard. I only wanted to make a small one first to see if I'll like it before spending time on a large one. <br><br>
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Glue gun. Bam!<br><br>
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Cut branches and glue glue glue!<br><br>
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Done! I must say, I'm very happy with the result. However, I think it was a lot easier for me to cut the branches because they are still fresh and soft. <br><br>
I showed the finished product to my parents and both of them thought that I made a swan. I can see that. Maybe it'll be an interpret art piece. Maybe I'll even hang it upside down!
LeTranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09592743010865334300noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-56784532099892442322014-12-28T19:05:00.000-08:002014-12-28T19:05:22.448-08:00Mounting Oncidium Lemon Heart 'Baby Face' Orchid on Cork BarkI made a short video on how I mount my orchid on cork bark. It's not the only way, but I find this method works for me. If you'd like to mount your orchid and don't know where to start, the video will give you an idea on how to approach it. Thanks for watching! :) <br />
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Originally it was supposed to be widescreen, but I had my ugly PJs showing on one side so I had to crop the video to fullscreen :) <br />
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<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Nfg25qGWdjM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-82662662946176395022014-12-26T17:13:00.000-08:002014-12-26T17:13:43.707-08:00Oncidium updateI posted an entry awhile back on the <a href="http://yarnsandbuttons.blogspot.com/2014/11/if-you-asked-me-year-ago-if-i-like.html">tiny oncidium orchid</a> I got for free. It was in bad condition and today I have good news. Four new growths have appeared and the orchid seems to be doing well. <br />
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/dxDEEuCzTWo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-36574972052818272712014-12-06T20:27:00.000-08:002014-12-06T20:27:01.405-08:00Too-Large Dress Refashion: Success!(This isn't a tutorial, just a quick show-and-tell on my refashion)<br />
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A coworker kindly donated a dress to me. It was the perfect challenge for my refashion project being that it was a few sizes too large and would require a completely new neckline, redoing the entire zipper, and hiding tear and wear. Necklines are my enemy, but I conquered it with conviction and won. The zipper and other issues ain't got nuthing on me! <br />
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Man, my photos are terrible.<br />
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Here's the before photo. I have yet to conquer selfies. <br />
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I chopped off the neck and a few inches from the shoulders, then created a new neckline. Side view.<br />
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From scrap fabric, I cut facing and attach interface. <a href="http://www.tillyandthebuttons.com/2013/02/sewing-neckline-facing.html">TUTORIAL on facing :)</a><br />
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Attach. <br />
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Redo zipper, shorten hem and what what! Done!<br />
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Part of the Oncidium Alliance, this orchid is an intergeneric hybrid between Brassia, Miltonia and Odontoglossum. I never get tired of saying "Oncidium Alliance"—it sounds like the name of a band of intergalactic warriors.<br />
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The pot had no accompanying label, as with most orchids, so I'm making a guess based on Google research. This is my most expensive orchid—I think I buy orchids to relieve stress, but most likely they will create more stress in the long run. I see a vicious cycle coming on.<br />
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This plant has four flower spikes. Although not as tall as other Oncidium spikes in the store, mine is full of buds! I've learned not to buy orchids when they're currently in bloom, but when they're just buds. I get to enjoy them longer and have more time to learn to care for them. Here are more photos of my new baby. :) <br />
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Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-59361806034698877972014-11-25T00:38:00.000-08:002014-11-25T00:38:02.272-08:00Gate to Fairy Land<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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While I was walking through Golden Gate park, I found this curious little thing.
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Since there were no lock on the gate, it would be fair game for me to open it. Anyway, some unique soul in San Francisco made this special door to fit in this log! I love this city!
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Treasure!!!!
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Gizmo was totally bored!
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Yes, I did open the notes. I will say that the notes might be interesting or they might be just totally boring. The location of this tiny gate is also for me to know and for anyone curious to find out. Happy treasure hunting in San Francisco! LeTranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09592743010865334300noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-54607465323418322322014-11-09T16:21:00.002-08:002014-11-09T16:38:10.839-08:00OrchidsIf you asked me a year ago if I like orchids, my answer would be "no." Today I've got 14 healthy orchids and 1 on-its-death-bed orchid. I also had one that passed away. God bless its orchid soul.<br>
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Aside from the two that aren't doing well, I've had two success stories already, and that's within the last few months I've started collecting orchids.<br>
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Here they are. This first one I rescued from my mother's place. She said she was taking care of it, but it had that lonely thrown-away look. Today it's still not large but has a small flower spike. Definitely not a root!<br>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rQqFJOofEME/VGAIFa8i_TI/AAAAAAAABLc/rr9oYU_mA2Q/s640/blogger-image-1271680839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rQqFJOofEME/VGAIFa8i_TI/AAAAAAAABLc/rr9oYU_mA2Q/s640/blogger-image-1271680839.jpg"></a></div><br><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3mgRKR6KU4o/VGAIH-MH-fI/AAAAAAAABLs/s1hz5PNrroU/s640/blogger-image-698417992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3mgRKR6KU4o/VGAIH-MH-fI/AAAAAAAABLs/s1hz5PNrroU/s640/blogger-image-698417992.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This one I got for $3 when it wasn't blooming. After 3 months, it has a wonderful long spike. I had to sacrifice two leaves due to a weird texture on them—most likely fungal disease. Sterilizing tools are an important lesson we all should learn early on. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0dBFa406Yy8/VGAIG-ZHp1I/AAAAAAAABLk/jExVIGwT72A/s640/blogger-image-126203979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0dBFa406Yy8/VGAIG-ZHp1I/AAAAAAAABLk/jExVIGwT72A/s640/blogger-image-126203979.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-EfxJmi9KCPE/VGAII3ex1JI/AAAAAAAABL0/E1mfIG9J32I/s640/blogger-image--15856273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-EfxJmi9KCPE/VGAII3ex1JI/AAAAAAAABL0/E1mfIG9J32I/s640/blogger-image--15856273.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm definitely not an orchid whisperer. I'm having a 50% success rate so far. Unfortunately, due to not being that knowledgable about orchids, I let the mealybugs infest many of my plants. Currently it's a battle between me and the bugs. I'm sure some of my orchids also have fungal infections which I'm trying to battle as well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's an oncidium the orchid guy was happy to relinquish for free. I took it home in its pathetic state and gave it love. Hopefully it'll survive although there's not a lot of hope as it's still in the same pathetic condition now as it was two weeks ago. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7uZ_RmzuVGM/VGAIJ7rmmtI/AAAAAAAABL8/OjDSo4gsbKk/s640/blogger-image-1816600010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7uZ_RmzuVGM/VGAIJ7rmmtI/AAAAAAAABL8/OjDSo4gsbKk/s640/blogger-image-1816600010.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MWaW5bdeDj0/VGAIEU2U-oI/AAAAAAAABLU/8X2XKCDlVB8/s640/blogger-image-1029839006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MWaW5bdeDj0/VGAIEU2U-oI/AAAAAAAABLU/8X2XKCDlVB8/s640/blogger-image-1029839006.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div>Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-78913921443351405962014-08-07T23:20:00.000-07:002014-08-07T23:28:39.791-07:00Necklines—I curse you!I'm frustrated. Really frustrated. <br />
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After reading and watching numerous tutorials and spending ridiculous amount of hours slaving away on my sewing machine, I still cannot get my necklines to lay flat. I'm doing something wrong, obviously, but I'm at a loss on where I've gone wrong. This ONE thing has taken all the fun out of sewing and it makes me want to punch a baby. I know—it's ridiculous. Sewing necklines has successfully transformed me into a heartless baby-punching dirtbag. Please, take the babies away from me before I smoosh their faces with my bony fist and curse their perfectly-made bibs with necklines that do lay flat!Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-60185304849764185832014-07-13T20:21:00.001-07:002014-07-13T20:54:18.791-07:00DIY long circle skirt (tutorial) - my $14 skirt<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zQaZK8B5xJA/U8M5UxBjZ5I/AAAAAAAABEQ/wU25I7ffWbs/s1600/_MG_2862.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zQaZK8B5xJA/U8M5UxBjZ5I/AAAAAAAABEQ/wU25I7ffWbs/s640/_MG_2862.png" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l5YL2CIo_ZE/U8NKqZDm1OI/AAAAAAAABHc/AtJZWuxVuFE/s1600/_MG_2821.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l5YL2CIo_ZE/U8NKqZDm1OI/AAAAAAAABHc/AtJZWuxVuFE/s640/_MG_2821.png" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uQuWYo8ag6g/U8NKsoG2qQI/AAAAAAAABHk/-h7K4MliP60/s1600/_MG_2875.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uQuWYo8ag6g/U8NKsoG2qQI/AAAAAAAABHk/-h7K4MliP60/s640/_MG_2875.png" /></a><br />
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I haven't sewn in awhile due to my kitty passing away and another being really sick. Today I made a skirt I've been meaning to make months ago when I saw this pin.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2J5FjOCASXU/U8M55FbKtfI/AAAAAAAABEY/4VhGEQWng1E/s1600/94c693ca3c09a0c82fef697d06e02db6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2J5FjOCASXU/U8M55FbKtfI/AAAAAAAABEY/4VhGEQWng1E/s640/94c693ca3c09a0c82fef697d06e02db6.jpg" /></a><br />
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I found this coral fabric at my newly discovered fabric store for $2.50 a yard. Never could I get something like this at Joann for this cheap, even on sale. I've learned never to go to Joann again for fabric or ... anything. Last time I bought fabric there, they cut it 3" too short.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZW0n5JjHGx4/U8M6q4om7mI/AAAAAAAABEg/J0m7xe32qkI/s1600/_MG_2751.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZW0n5JjHGx4/U8M6q4om7mI/AAAAAAAABEg/J0m7xe32qkI/s640/_MG_2751.png" /></a><br />
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I wanted to add a little bling to the waistband so when I found this lace (also at my new fabric store) for $1.50 a yard, I nearly passed out and bought 3 yards. If I had more money I would have gotten 100. Just kidding.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-97B5L1qFI8Y/U8M7ni4N9GI/AAAAAAAABEs/K2eIbeYL8v4/s1600/_MG_2768.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-97B5L1qFI8Y/U8M7ni4N9GI/AAAAAAAABEs/K2eIbeYL8v4/s640/_MG_2768.png" /></a><br />
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<b>My total cost for this project was $14! </b><br />
$7.50 for 3 yards of fabric<br />
$3 for zipper<br />
$2 for lining fabric<br />
$1.50 for a yard of lace<br />
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Let's get started.<br />
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<b>1. Figure out your measurements. </b><br />
Unless you use a bed sheet, your fabric will not be large enough to cut a whole circle skirt from. You'll need to cut 2 half circles. Here are 2 methods to cutting. I find I can save fabric and money if I cut using Method #2 because fabric is pretty expensive, I'm cheap and I need money for my cat's vet bills.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JJbaiM8KChw/U8NBrTYYL5I/AAAAAAAABGE/LWMlUJ8DNiE/s1600/Long+Circle+Skirt-01.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JJbaiM8KChw/U8NBrTYYL5I/AAAAAAAABGE/LWMlUJ8DNiE/s640/Long+Circle+Skirt-01.png" /></a><br />
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<b>2. Figure out your half circles.</b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Awln5Ow7ei0/U8NUQAtmGbI/AAAAAAAABIM/GZgxm64ydi4/s1600/Long+Circle+Skirt-02.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Awln5Ow7ei0/U8NUQAtmGbI/AAAAAAAABIM/GZgxm64ydi4/s640/Long+Circle+Skirt-02.png" /></a><br />
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<b>3. Cut a lining fabric the same way as the outside fabric, but shorter.</b> <br />
The length depends on you. I made it short so I could save fabric. <br />
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<b>4. Hem the bottoms of both the main fabric and the lining.</b><br />
You can do a standard hem for the bottom. I used a rolled hem on my serger, which turned out to be even more amazing than sliced bread. This was so quick and easy—I left it exposed as it was beautiful like that and it won't fray. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J3vscBORmlg/U8NDrqxNxUI/AAAAAAAABGY/uacn-Zvupl4/s1600/_MG_2755.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J3vscBORmlg/U8NDrqxNxUI/AAAAAAAABGY/uacn-Zvupl4/s640/_MG_2755.png" /></a><br />
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<b>5. Sew the two half circles together on one side. Do the same for the lining. </b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sQy7L2T_DFY/U8NFx5UiAyI/AAAAAAAABGk/Ai4Ud3thy6c/s1600/Long+Circle+Skirt-03.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sQy7L2T_DFY/U8NFx5UiAyI/AAAAAAAABGk/Ai4Ud3thy6c/s640/Long+Circle+Skirt-03.png" /></a><br />
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<b>6. Sew the lining and the main fabric together at the waist.</b><br />
Remember that both of them should have one side still open. This is where the zipper will go. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qMstb3J7U9k/U8NGdhaaLkI/AAAAAAAABGs/oCgB3l00960/s1600/_MG_2757.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qMstb3J7U9k/U8NGdhaaLkI/AAAAAAAABGs/oCgB3l00960/s640/_MG_2757.png" /></a><br />
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<b>7. Attach the lace waistband.</b><br />
The lace should be at least your waist measurement (or wherever you want the skirt to sit) plus 1-2 inches.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7s9Fy5zQwfc/U8NHMFywAsI/AAAAAAAABG4/agbYQt4UPp4/s1600/_MG_2779.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7s9Fy5zQwfc/U8NHMFywAsI/AAAAAAAABG4/agbYQt4UPp4/s640/_MG_2779.png" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a1XQUUl5BAo/U8NI37QcQOI/AAAAAAAABHE/59ZTJ9Yzqgc/s1600/_MG_2787.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a1XQUUl5BAo/U8NI37QcQOI/AAAAAAAABHE/59ZTJ9Yzqgc/s640/_MG_2787.png" /></a><br />
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When I sew on the lace, I go in a zig zag pattern, following the lace's pattern. This will make the waistband sturdier and won't be visible. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EWnN6R6LaOA/U8NI5Uzi7HI/AAAAAAAABHM/6qI0mHieeMY/s1600/_MG_2791.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EWnN6R6LaOA/U8NI5Uzi7HI/AAAAAAAABHM/6qI0mHieeMY/s640/_MG_2791.png" /></a><br />
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<b>8. Now, attach your zipper on the open side. </b><br />
I used an invisible zipper so it won't show that much. This was a pink zipper since I couldn't find a matching zipper for my fabric. Make sure your fold the lace under like the photo so it won't fray. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KDxj4sv-sE0/U8NJ-o7WKHI/AAAAAAAABHU/pmcIz-hiuy8/s1600/_MG_2788.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KDxj4sv-sE0/U8NJ-o7WKHI/AAAAAAAABHU/pmcIz-hiuy8/s640/_MG_2788.png" /></a><br />
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After attaching the zipper, the last thing to do is sew the rest of the side of the skirt together.<br />
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Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-20759622281002446492014-06-25T22:53:00.003-07:002014-06-25T23:04:34.172-07:00DIY split-back bow shirt (tutorial)<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-309R2TjJTXQ/U6uvWGIht0I/AAAAAAAABBg/FCygR4w6hhg/s1600/_MG_2626.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-309R2TjJTXQ/U6uvWGIht0I/AAAAAAAABBg/FCygR4w6hhg/s640/_MG_2626.png" /></a><br />
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A few weeks ago, I was perusing Joann when I saw a chiffon fabric with bird patterns I knew my sister would love. Unfortunately, it was $14/yard. That was ridiculous. I know Joann always mark up their prices so I waited for a sale. I got 1.3 yards for my sister and attempted to make her a split-back shirt with a bow in the back. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wTTIaM8S_UU/U6uxBizcxNI/AAAAAAAABCE/h391LMA2Eis/s1600/_MG_2640.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wTTIaM8S_UU/U6uxBizcxNI/AAAAAAAABCE/h391LMA2Eis/s640/_MG_2640.png" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O3jfc54w5EA/U6uycbjla6I/AAAAAAAABDU/0lnRJxHhr2U/s1600/_MG_2644.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O3jfc54w5EA/U6uycbjla6I/AAAAAAAABDU/0lnRJxHhr2U/s400/_MG_2644.png" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KfFNSUrD-PE/U6uxPm6J_pI/AAAAAAAABCU/SWpo2KW0sXk/s1600/_MG_2656.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KfFNSUrD-PE/U6uxPm6J_pI/AAAAAAAABCU/SWpo2KW0sXk/s640/_MG_2656.png" /></a><br />
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This shirt is incredibly simple. <br />
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First, cut one front and one back piece in the shape of a loose tank top. Cut an A shape in the middle of the back piece. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQ_gHCiXMLk/U6uyZ84DEWI/AAAAAAAABCw/Q3oh34O88Q0/s1600/Bow+Shirt-01.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQ_gHCiXMLk/U6uyZ84DEWI/AAAAAAAABCw/Q3oh34O88Q0/s400/Bow+Shirt-01.png" /></a><br />
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Take the top inner corners and overlap them slightly like pictured. This will allow you to sew them together and let you have a base for attaching the bow later.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fkKbk1NUxbE/U6uyaIK2J0I/AAAAAAAABCs/eEVrjgJtnao/s1600/Bow+Shirt-02.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fkKbk1NUxbE/U6uyaIK2J0I/AAAAAAAABCs/eEVrjgJtnao/s400/Bow+Shirt-02.png" /></a><br />
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Hem the bottom, arms and neckline. Sew the two pieces together at the shoulders and sides.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EtzRoBNKL-I/U6uyZ32pjvI/AAAAAAAABCo/jzFxVd58izM/s1600/Bow+Shirt-03.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EtzRoBNKL-I/U6uyZ32pjvI/AAAAAAAABCo/jzFxVd58izM/s400/Bow+Shirt-03.png" /></a><br />
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For the bow, I cut TWO rectangular pieces. Because chiffon is too flimsy and will not stand on its own, I ironed on interfacing to make it stiffer. Follow the directions on your interfacing package for this step as there are different types of interfacing. Mine is fusible interfacing, which means I had to iron it on. Make sure you attach the interfacing on the WRONG side of the fabric. Do this to both pieces. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rI1p2z3BaFw/U6uya3xIImI/AAAAAAAABDY/IRMQmc3Ekzg/s1600/Bow+Shirt-04.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rI1p2z3BaFw/U6uya3xIImI/AAAAAAAABDY/IRMQmc3Ekzg/s400/Bow+Shirt-04.png" /></a><br />
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Now lay the two pieces with the WRONG sides (with interfacing attached) facing each other. Fold the sides inward and sew the two pieces together. There are many ways to do this, so do it the way you prefer. You basically just want a "closed" pillow case. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ca6EA7e_Tsg/U6uybMFEGgI/AAAAAAAABC0/aFR3Lf7OSiU/s1600/Bow+Shirt-05.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ca6EA7e_Tsg/U6uybMFEGgI/AAAAAAAABC0/aFR3Lf7OSiU/s400/Bow+Shirt-05.png" /></a><br />
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Take a small piece of scrap fabric and wrap it around the bow at the middle. Make sure it's long enough to have a small piece sticking out so you can attach it to the shirt.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J2LOv0XMo6c/U6uybWjlmSI/AAAAAAAABC4/8A9b5CckHSY/s1600/Bow+Shirt-06.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J2LOv0XMo6c/U6uybWjlmSI/AAAAAAAABC4/8A9b5CckHSY/s400/Bow+Shirt-06.png" /></a><br />
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Sew it to the shirt with a simple straight stitch. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7POGnOvp4To/U6uybj-ufLI/AAAAAAAABDA/tuSckXiqN_U/s1600/Bow+Shirt-07.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7POGnOvp4To/U6uybj-ufLI/AAAAAAAABDA/tuSckXiqN_U/s400/Bow+Shirt-07.png" /></a><br />
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Done! <br />
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And wear it.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-309R2TjJTXQ/U6uvWGIht0I/AAAAAAAABBg/FCygR4w6hhg/s1600/_MG_2626.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-309R2TjJTXQ/U6uvWGIht0I/AAAAAAAABBg/FCygR4w6hhg/s640/_MG_2626.png" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FL8WBzoeLq8/U6u2oVqkKNI/AAAAAAAABDs/QxIvlFZEQdE/s1600/_MG_2639.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FL8WBzoeLq8/U6u2oVqkKNI/AAAAAAAABDs/QxIvlFZEQdE/s640/_MG_2639.png" /></a>Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-36682249016737655692014-06-23T22:25:00.002-07:002014-06-23T22:28:57.328-07:00DIY triangle shirtOne of my babies passed away a week ago. Since then, I've thrown myself into sewing as a distraction. Sometimes not having anyone to talk to or hug gets pretty lonely. Sewing helps keep me busy. Here's a triangle shirt I made for my sister. I saw her pin it on Pinterest and thought it wasn't too hard to make. <br />
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She's so purdyyy.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pj49Cy5vheM/U6j9p2LbNVI/AAAAAAAAA_I/BGpJgyRO7Xc/s1600/_MG_2611.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pj49Cy5vheM/U6j9p2LbNVI/AAAAAAAAA_I/BGpJgyRO7Xc/s1600/_MG_2611.jpg" /></a><br />
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Here's what I did. It's not a thorough walk through, but I wanted to show how I figured this shirt out. I didn't use a tutorial so all my projects are mostly just me figuring these out. <br />
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I used a jersey knit for the inside and a chiffon for the flowy triangle. <br />
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<b>For the inside:</b><br />
Cut a tank top that fits you. I used half a yard because my sister is petite. It fits close to her body. I think making it looser would look cuter so use more fabric if you're not cheap like me. I used a tank top that fits her and used it to cut a new one. Hem and sew everything together EXCEPT for the neckline.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RNFQfpGwQBk/U6kI6dKlVGI/AAAAAAAABAc/bB4wvtwckcw/s1600/Triangle+Shirt-01.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RNFQfpGwQBk/U6kI6dKlVGI/AAAAAAAABAc/bB4wvtwckcw/s400/Triangle+Shirt-01.png" /></a><br />
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<b>For the outside:</b> <br />
Get a piece of rectangular fabric and fold in half. Make sure that it's 2x longer than your desired length. For example, if you need the shirt to be 30 inches long (from shoulders to triangle tip at bottom), double that and get 60 inches. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVZ5VXSViqg/U6kI6aOjdhI/AAAAAAAABAk/nPP_RvKCE10/s1600/Triangle+Shirt-02.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVZ5VXSViqg/U6kI6aOjdhI/AAAAAAAABAk/nPP_RvKCE10/s400/Triangle+Shirt-02.png" /></a><br />
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Mark the middle of the fabric at the bottom (from the left side to the right side). That's where the tip of the bottom of the shirt will be. Draw a triangle from the top left corner to the bottom tip to the right top corner, as shown in the drawing. Lay the tank top under the triangle where you want. I placed it slightly to the right because I wanted an asymmetrical shirt. Cut a neckline into the triangle exactly like your tank top. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sRd96-17UHM/U6kI6SkpfBI/AAAAAAAABAY/vqvmcYcMQdc/s1600/Triangle+Shirt-03.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sRd96-17UHM/U6kI6SkpfBI/AAAAAAAABAY/vqvmcYcMQdc/s400/Triangle+Shirt-03.png" /></a><br />
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<b>Combine:</b><br />
Sew the triangle and tank top together at the neckline. Remember to hem the triangle fabric as well. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7L2YM50YndE/U6kI63oUnoI/AAAAAAAABAg/8ZGdL8FkdvY/s1600/Triangle+Shirt-04.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7L2YM50YndE/U6kI63oUnoI/AAAAAAAABAg/8ZGdL8FkdvY/s400/Triangle+Shirt-04.png" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o3TI6g9QWcI/U6kLT6bgfNI/AAAAAAAABA8/mMIwIfPnPqA/s1600/_MG_2601.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o3TI6g9QWcI/U6kLT6bgfNI/AAAAAAAABA8/mMIwIfPnPqA/s1600/_MG_2601.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lfmspRSyjU/U6kLUZ1xcsI/AAAAAAAABBE/OxMz3CK-_9c/s1600/_MG_2609.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lfmspRSyjU/U6kLUZ1xcsI/AAAAAAAABBE/OxMz3CK-_9c/s1600/_MG_2609.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VSYw1jnTTYo/U6kLUR4IZWI/AAAAAAAABBA/0MoZBgB9VUE/s1600/_MG_2615.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VSYw1jnTTYo/U6kLUR4IZWI/AAAAAAAABBA/0MoZBgB9VUE/s1600/_MG_2615.jpg" /></a>Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-66307424890918007692014-06-15T21:53:00.001-07:002014-06-15T21:54:45.002-07:00Xam<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/8331814789" title="20121224-DSC_1831 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8215/8331814789_a7bd644e6e.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20121224-DSC_1831"></a></center>
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/4729649256" title="Have you hug someone you love today? by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1052/4729649256_192f45116a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Have you hug someone you love today?"></a></center>
<br>LeTranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09592743010865334300noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-85374280124564597702014-06-13T00:11:00.002-07:002014-06-18T22:20:45.645-07:00DIY Long Sheer Maxi Skirt (Tutorial)A few years ago, I asked my father, a former photographer, why he never taught me photography. He answered, "you're smart enough to figure it out yourself." He's right. I've always been good with figuring things out. My brain works nonstop—hence, the permanent stressed expression on my face and the furrowed brow that's turned into wrinkles. But that's a story for another day. <br>
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While I was in training at work, I saw a girl wearing a long and sheer yellow maxi skirt. She looked so fabulous gliding through the building. I had to have that skirt. I thought of it. I dreamt of it. I must make it. So I did. <br>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/14409520814" title="IMG_8027 copy by Baotran, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2931/14409520814_07a36e140b_o.jpg" width="500" height="700" alt="IMG_8027 copy"></a><br>
*photo courtesy of my amazingly talented friend.<br>
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Chiffon fabric $3.33<br>
Jersey knit fabric for lining $2<br>
2" elastic $2<br>
Stares from men and jealous glares from women ... priceless<br>
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<b>1. Take your fabric and fold in half. </b><br>
The width will vary depending on your size, but the <i>minimum</i> should be your hip circumference x 1.5. For example, my hips measure 34" around, so 34 x 1.5 = 51". I recommend making it bigger so you can walk comfortably.<br>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/14430832383" title="SheerSkirt-01 by Baotran, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3871/14430832383_dda632a8ff.jpg" width="500" height="380" alt="SheerSkirt-01"></a><br>
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<b>2. Cut your skirt like the image shown below. </b><br>
Make sure the top and bottom are slightly curved. If not, your sides will appear to be longer than the front and back when you put the skirt on. You should have two pieces.<br>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/14387535016" title="SheerSkirt-02 by Baotran, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5488/14387535016_9440a78d8e.jpg" width="500" height="380" alt="SheerSkirt-02"></a><br>
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<b>3. Cut your lining fabric in the same way, but shorter. </b><br>
The length of this depends on you. I made it reach my knee for modesty's sake because I didn't want to get in trouble for dressing "inappropriately" at work. <br>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/14224059890" title="SheerSkirt-03 by Baotran, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2924/14224059890_ce08433529.jpg" width="500" height="380" alt="SheerSkirt-03"></a><br>
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<b>4. Hem/serge the top and hem the bottom of the 4 pieces. Sew the two sides together.</b><br>
I hem everything since I don't have a serger. Knit doesn't fray easily, but chiffon is notorious for falling apart. <br>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/14224016289" title="SheerSkirt-04 by Baotran, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5482/14224016289_4d30beb102.jpg" width="500" height="380" alt="SheerSkirt-04"></a><br>
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<b>5. Place the lining inside.</b><br>
I sew the lining and the chiffon fabric together at the top because it made it easier to gather later.<br>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/14409520874" title="SheerSkirt-05 by Baotran, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5316/14409520874_37d9b63948.jpg" width="500" height="380" alt="SheerSkirt-05"></a><br>
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<b>6. Cut your elastic to your waist size, then gather your skirt to the elastic. </b><br>
Do not make it larger than your waist. It should sit perfectly without discomfort around your waist. Make sure when you gather your fabric that you stretch the elastic to the size of your skirt and then sew. Here's a <a href="http://youtu.be/y1ZD88zs6eU?t=2m13s">video tutorial</a> on how to do it. <br>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/14407294121" title="SheerSkirt-06 by Baotran, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2918/14407294121_2dcd1d6cdb.jpg" width="500" height="380" alt="SheerSkirt-06"></a><br>
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7. Wear it! <br>
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Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-29434690204849098322014-06-04T22:39:00.000-07:002014-06-04T22:44:30.814-07:00DIY tulle skirt (tutorial)My sister inspired me to start sewing so I purchased a sewing machine a week ago. Since then, I've been jumping head first into sewing projects. Nevermind learning to sew straight, I'm starting with dresses. <br />
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After two dresses, one successful and one failure, I dived straight into sewing a tulle skirt. I found lots of directions on Pinterest and had a rough time deciphering them. In the end, I just winged it like I did with my other sewing projects. <br />
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Here's the skirt. My sister made that blouse—it's purdy. Please excuse my bad photos—it's hard doing selfies.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oc0h70bzOSc/U464TDHr8LI/AAAAAAAAA9M/idW8zkZBILU/s1600/_MG_2473+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oc0h70bzOSc/U464TDHr8LI/AAAAAAAAA9M/idW8zkZBILU/s1600/_MG_2473+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhl3u4b3hRs/U464S74qMMI/AAAAAAAAA9I/iWFuDGugKZM/s1600/_MG_2462+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhl3u4b3hRs/U464S74qMMI/AAAAAAAAA9I/iWFuDGugKZM/s1600/_MG_2462+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
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<b>I forgot to put in that you need to cut another layer of lining, same measurements as the tulle, but a few inches shorter and sew it under all the tulle layers.</b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kfap5LCSFzA/U5AApkcj3gI/AAAAAAAAA9w/eQtvtOWYBVc/s1600/Tulle+Skirt-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img width="500" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kfap5LCSFzA/U5AApkcj3gI/AAAAAAAAA9w/eQtvtOWYBVc/s1600/Tulle+Skirt-01.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iAfqJqhXJJU/U464UA9E9HI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/kEXUp9kisXw/s1600/_MG_2474+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iAfqJqhXJJU/U464UA9E9HI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/kEXUp9kisXw/s1600/_MG_2474+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
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<script type="text/javascript" async src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-29932234717626450182014-04-30T15:27:00.000-07:002014-05-03T17:43:31.427-07:00Triangle Shirt Tutorial<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/13890029190" title="20140425-DSC_0541 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2925/13890029190_dfa8511acf.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140425-DSC_0541"></a></center>
I was standing in line for the cutting table and saw this fabric behind the table. I wanted it. I didn't care how much it would cost. I didn't care what it'd feel like. I didn't care, I wanted it. So I bought it. Love at first sight. It turned out that the fabric is a loose linen...kinda like a potato sack. Just kidding, not really, but it's not satin.
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Now what can I make with it? I've always wanted to do some sort of flowy top like this <a href "http://www.fafafoom.com/diy-scarf-top-with-kimono-sleeves/" target="_blank">scarf top with kimono sleeve</a>. However, I had an idea that I wanted to do it with a rectangular shape. Drawing inspirations from the scarf top, I created the triangle shirt!
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14076607855" title="20140425-DSC_0548 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5036/14076607855_6a8f0f5a2d.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140425-DSC_0548"></a></center>
I measured from my clavicle (that's the collar bone) down to where I wanted the shirt to end which was 26 inches. That became the height of my isosceles triangle. Incidentally, this made the base of the triangle as long as my arm span which worked out like a miracle! I added one more inch making it a total of 27 inches to give room for hemming and finishing.
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Because I'm not a true a seamstress and I'm very lazy, I didn't take the time to iron the fabric. However, this fabric is very forgiving so I got away with it.
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/13889979700" title="20140425-DSC_0550 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7360/13889979700_8979a82939.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="20140425-DSC_0550"></a></center>
Shit I had to deal with. He was not pooping, by the way.
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14073325041" title="20140430-shirt-dimensions by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5350/14073325041_080877c6bc.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140430-shirt-dimensions"></a></center>
The next three cuts involved:
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- The neck hole (just a slit) about 11 inches wide.<br>
- I measured the widest part of my body which came out to be my butt, divided it in half and made it the width of the body of the shirt. <br>
- The distance from the top of my shoulder to about 3" below my armpit determined the size of the arm openings. <br>
<br>Originally, I was just going to cut one cut from bottom of the arm opening straight down but that gave me too much sleeves that they didn't drape neatly. So I decided to cut out a triangle between the body part and the sleeve part. This was mostly guess work of how much I wanted to take off.
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After that, it was just stitching body and arms closed and hemming all edges.
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14077014114" title="20140430-DSC_0598 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2907/14077014114_0a25a2a5b9.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="20140430-DSC_0598"></a></center>
Finished!
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/13889903059" title="20140430-DSC_0602 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7368/13889903059_f65cbfd16a.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="20140430-DSC_0602"></a></center>
Yes, you can see Gizmo in the reflection.
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I love that I can turn the shirt and wear it "backward" for a different print placement. I tried wearing it with a belt and it look that great on me. However, I think if I were to make it again, I wouldn't try making it with a waist instead of straight down.
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Thank you Priyanka for the photos of me. LeTranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09592743010865334300noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-76170767056386555792014-04-26T01:33:00.001-07:002014-04-26T01:33:48.995-07:00Fabric Wall Art<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I was at the fabric store and found a couple of really cool looking fabrics. However, I didn't know what I would do with them but I bought them anyway. One day, I just decided that I could stretch them over a frame and hang them on the wall. My sister took me to Home Depot and bought some 1"x2"x8' pieces of wood. Then she cut them into pieces and made some 16"x16" frames for me.
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14036283903" title="20140414-_MG_2326 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7429/14036283903_3ccbde7265.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140414-_MG_2326"></a></center>
Here's my sister slaving away while I was inside the house simmering a bad mood.
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<br><center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14013086652" title="20140414-_MG_2328 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2896/14013086652_6009892d54.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140414-_MG_2328"></a></center>
Frame completed!
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14016737294" title="20140414-_MG_2335 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2935/14016737294_cd6401f64a.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140414-_MG_2335"></a></center>
We cut out the fabrics into squares, stretched and stapled them onto the frames.
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/13993163486" title="20140414-_MG_2337 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5304/13993163486_ff1c1922f0.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140414-_MG_2337"></a></center>
The corners were folded and tucked in neatly.
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14013089721" title="20140414-_MG_2344 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7232/14013089721_d6107ddd34.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140414-_MG_2344"></a></center>
Finished one frame!
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14016281425" title="20140414-_MG_2357 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5261/14016281425_42acfe5d71.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="20140414-_MG_2357"></a></center>
Finished with the other frame, too!
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14013084452" title="20140414-_MG_2361 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7272/14013084452_0339c763f1.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140414-_MG_2361"></a></center>
Of course, Calvin also helped us out.
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14036280473" title="20140425-DSC_0556 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7174/14036280473_757645312e.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140425-DSC_0556"></a></center>
These were hanging on the hallway entrance in my apartment. These were taken and hung up two years ago when I first moved in. I think it's time for a change.
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<center><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44337450@N05/14016734614" title="20140425-DSC_0567 by LeTran Bui, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5525/14016734614_ca9f399954.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="20140425-DSC_0567"></a></center>
I hung these new fabric frames in place of the old strawberries/blueberries photos. I must say, I really like them. Thank you, Baotran for making these with me! LeTranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09592743010865334300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-43221391871958930292014-03-10T00:18:00.001-07:002014-03-10T20:27:58.489-07:00Jewelry Hanger & Wall Art <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/13053671655/" title="Wall art jewelry hanger by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7375/13053671655_9beb0a1ee6.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="Wall art jewelry hanger"></a><br />
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I hate non-functional items—anything that just sits on shelves or hangs on walls looking pretty is useless to me. That means I mostly avoid them at all cost, unless I can justify having them by giving them purpose. <br />
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That being said, when I saw this metal wall art at Hobby Lobby, I was a bit skeptical. I've been looking for another jewelry hanger for a few months now, but haven't found what I wanted at an affordable price. This wall art was on sale and I have to say, it's the best purchase I've made at Hobby Lobby so far. <br />
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Here's what it looks like before. Very simple flat-finish black. I liked the simple black, but felt it wouldn't go with my dressing room where colors were mostly white and bright. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/13053677425/" title="Wall art jewelry hanger by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3714/13053677425_8d8ea26f9a.jpg" width="500" height="250" alt="Wall art jewelry hanger"></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/13053812333/" title="Wall art jewelry hanger by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7371/13053812333_f5b0d06987.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="Wall art jewelry hanger"></a><br />
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Instead of completely taking the black away and painting it with another color, I sprayed the front with a layer of Mod Podge Pearlized Glaze. Let me tell you—the finish ROCKS, the spray bottle design SUCKS. I had to press super hard in order for it to spray. Ugh they should make their bottles like Rust-oleum. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/13053815193/" title="Wall art jewelry hanger by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7415/13053815193_fa6c6955ef.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="Wall art jewelry hanger"></a><br />
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The photo doesn't do it justice. It's a subtle, yet beautiful pearlized finish. This is the same finish I used for <a href="http://yarnsandbuttons.blogspot.com/2014/03/diy-complete-ceiling-fan-makeover.html">the glass on my ceiling fan</a>. Remember this?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896885434/" title="_MG_2096 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7340/12896885434_a4705dde8c.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_2096 copy"></a><br />
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Yup. Okay let's hang this sucker up. There were two holes built into the metal wall art to hang it on the wall. Such an easy installation and it stays on tight. I hung up all my necklaces and earrings and it looks perfect. Keeps everything in one place and takes up no real estate in my room. Awesome. Beautiful and serves a purpose. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/13053818293/" title="Wall art jewelry hanger by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3158/13053818293_d6308499a7.jpg" width="357" height="500" alt="Wall art jewelry hanger"></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/13053901273/" title="Wall-Art Jewelry Hanger by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3466/13053901273_dd2cba836c.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="Wall-Art Jewelry Hanger"></a><br />
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Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-17666983841459147822014-03-02T20:52:00.002-08:002014-03-04T09:51:55.755-08:00DIY Complete Ceiling Fan MakeoverI'm on a roll. I've been doing projects like crazy. My brain is fried with too many ideas and not enough doing. Being alone and having a limited amount of dough, doing projects have been difficult. Here's a project I did without breaking the bank. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896485505/" title="_MG_1973 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7446/12896485505_c520d3aa2a.jpg" width="350" height="500" alt="DIY complete fan makeover with spray paint"></a><br />
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This fan came with the house I purchased. It's an eyesore because the style is too old fashion. I thought about replacing it with a new fan or a chandelier, but both cost too much money and I wanted to keep a fan for summer days. Pinterest saved my sanity once again and I found some inspiration for painting it. It's a lot cheaper this way and I can get any look I want. Let's face it, most ceiling fans have a very old fashion look. If you're like me and not willing to spend a heinous amount of money on a new fan, you're stuck with these 80s fans. BUT you don't have to suffer with this look. There is still hope. <br />
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I spent: <br />
$3.87 on <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Rust-Oleum-Painter-s-Touch-2X-12-oz-Gloss-Seaside-Spray-Paint-267116/203872461?N=5yc1vZblfgZ1z13o7a">Rust-oleum Gloss Sea Side</a>. <br />
$3.87 on <a href="http://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/painters-touch-ultra-cover-2x/primer/">Rust-oleum Flat White</a>.<br />
$9.99 on <a href="http://shop.hobbylobby.com/products/mod-podge-pearlized-glaze-777557/">Mod Podge Pearlized Glaze</a>.<br />
$5.99 on a floral stencil (I can't find the link to this, but I got it at Hobby Lobby).<br />
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Here's the old fan. The glass is clear and I wanted it more frosted. I think the frosty look will make the whole fan less stark and more soft. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896899614/" title="_MG_1975 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3806/12896899614_b9f0284788.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_1975 copy"></a><br />
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Take apart your fan and wipe it clean. The top of mine was seriously dusty. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896479745/" title="_MG_2025 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7453/12896479745_ecd72ed410.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_2025 copy"></a><br />
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Spray the glass with Mod Podge Pearlized Glaze. This gives the glass a frosted and pearly sheen.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12897017443/" title="_MG_1977 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3736/12897017443_c7ce345e70.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_1977 copy"></a><br />
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Spray the blades with two coats of Rust-oleum Flat White spray paint. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896894374/" title="_MG_2030 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2832/12896894374_f6c9d16d96.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_2030 copy"></a><br />
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Paint all the metal parts with two coats of Rust-oleum Sea Side spray paint. Ignore the socks-and-sandals combo. O.O<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896892834/" title="_MG_2043 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3723/12896892834_9cb5d07d9f.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_2043 copy"></a><br />
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Make sure you tape all electrical parts so the spray paint doesn't touch it. Also wear a mask and gloves. I didn't do this and ended up with a lot of dust in my nose and paint on my hands. NOT GOOD. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896565633/" title="_MG_2059 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2859/12896565633_24996e3c96.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_2059 copy"></a><br />
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Put the stencil on top of the bottom of the blade and spray paint it with the Sea Side spray paint.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896888004/" title="_MG_2069 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3708/12896888004_297c0ed2af.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_2069 copy"></a><br />
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When all the paint is dry, WEIGH the blades. This is extremely important as too much difference between the blade weights will result in imbalance when the fan is in motion. Two of my blades came out to be 1 lb 2.3 ounces. Three blades were 1 lb 2.2 ounces. If some of your blades are lighter than others, spray paint a very thin coat on a small part of the blade to add a bit of weight. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896888874/" title="_MG_2072 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2864/12896888874_a56a0c273d.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_2072 copy"></a><br />
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FINALLY, put all your parts together! How pretty is this??<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896471505/" title="_MG_2077 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2874/12896471505_9abab5c853.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_2077 copy"></a><br />
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Close up of the glass. It's so beautiful. I love it!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12896885434/" title="_MG_2096 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7340/12896885434_a4705dde8c.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_2096 copy"></a><br />
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Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-76254309187989552772014-03-01T20:37:00.000-08:002014-03-01T20:49:37.643-08:00DIY paint Ikea lamp shade with two patternsI purchased a pair of <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/00215048/">Ikea lamps</a> a few months ago. I loved the color, then I changed my mind. They also don't go with the rest of my room. I spray painted these, each side with a different pattern so when I'm tired of one pattern, I'll just flip it over and add a new look to my room.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12870152974/" title="_MG_1986 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7429/12870152974_891ef173cd.jpg" width="500" height="350" alt="_MG_1986 copy"></a><br />
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Here's the old lamp shade. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12870159914/" title="_MG_1872 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2827/12870159914_3b9e50cdcd.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_1872 copy"></a><br />
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I sprayed painted the front and back sides with a light blue and the two sides with a turquoise. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12869813013/" title="_MG_1907 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3810/12869813013_927edd39ff.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_1907 copy"></a><br />
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Wait until all sides are dry. Then use painter's tape to make chevron patterns on one of the larger sides of the lamp shade. I made mine imperfect with small and large lines. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12869727775/" title="_MG_1912 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7362/12869727775_e9bf8e19c9.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_1912 copy"></a><br />
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Spray paint it a different color (in my case, I used the turquoise since that side of the lamp shade was previously painted light blue). <br />
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On the other side, use a stencil pattern of your choice. I used one from Hobby Lobby for $6. Be prepared to throw this away after a few uses because stencils are very flimsy and difficult to clean, no matter what the advertisement says.<br />
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Here are the final results. It's just one lamp shade with two different patterns on the front and back. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12870152974/" title="_MG_1986 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7429/12870152974_891ef173cd.jpg" width="500" height="350" alt="_MG_1986 copy"></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12869809343/" title="_MG_1990 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7291/12869809343_13c99ab54a.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_1990 copy"></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raspberrynights/12869807913/" title="_MG_1988 copy by a lifetime of walking on eggshells, on Flickr"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7444/12869807913_14b776f7cf.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="_MG_1988 copy"></a><br />
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P.S. I made the splatter on the sides more noticeable because I like the texture. It adds dimension. :) <br />
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Please comment and pin :D<br />
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<script type="text/javascript" async src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>Stinkeepoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05842044005035686337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7159023819259540248.post-14805446438878577102014-02-26T22:34:00.000-08:002014-02-26T22:46:12.265-08:00Easy Papasan Footstool Makeover<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MR5XHN0XGqk/Uw7YFoXKnEI/AAAAAAAAA6M/Itr5euHpp2s/s1600/DSC_0259+FINAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MR5XHN0XGqk/Uw7YFoXKnEI/AAAAAAAAA6M/Itr5euHpp2s/s640/DSC_0259+FINAL.jpg" /></a><br />
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My sister got me this stool along with a used papasan on Craigslist. I loved them—until my cats took over them and made them furry. Unfortunately, washing only made them faded, but doesn't get rid of the furry. So after reading and pinning a bunch of DIY painting tutorials, I've decided I'll give these a makeover. I started with the footstool first just in case I mess up. <br />
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Lo and behold: the old footstool. It's lumpy. It's hairy. It's gross.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cx0o6Y4RGJo/Uw7ZgJ2svGI/AAAAAAAAA6c/Sety910aDRk/s1600/DSC_0233+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cx0o6Y4RGJo/Uw7ZgJ2svGI/AAAAAAAAA6c/Sety910aDRk/s640/DSC_0233+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
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This is made out of wicker, so I gently sanded it down and wiped with a dry paper towel. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wt8yO8YjJ3I/Uw7Zf1_7X8I/AAAAAAAAA6Y/9Mij3GAADG4/s1600/DSC_0241+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wt8yO8YjJ3I/Uw7Zf1_7X8I/AAAAAAAAA6Y/9Mij3GAADG4/s640/DSC_0241+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
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Then I sprayed two coats of Rust-oleum Flat White Paint and Primer. Easy breezy ...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ok937DtMh9A/Uw7ZgOz2pCI/AAAAAAAAA6g/hzohZNeJC2s/s1600/DSC_0249+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ok937DtMh9A/Uw7ZgOz2pCI/AAAAAAAAA6g/hzohZNeJC2s/s640/DSC_0249+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
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I didn't like the cushion AT ALL and had a brilliant idea to replace it with a pillow. Okay maybe not so brilliant, but still cheaper than a real footstool cushion, and wayyy prettier. Finding the cushion proved to be more difficult. I went to two Burlington Coat Factory and a Ross before I stumbled on something I absolutely love. Plus, I didn't have food all day long so I was miserable by the time I found this pillow. <br />
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Cushion. Turquoise. Pillow section. 16 inches diameter (I measured the footstool before going to the store). $11.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YLKZwhc3rDA/Uw7bZHAAJ-I/AAAAAAAAA68/6BWdz8V6OMI/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YLKZwhc3rDA/Uw7bZHAAJ-I/AAAAAAAAA68/6BWdz8V6OMI/s640/photo.jpg" /></a><br />
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Just place the pillow on top and voila. Done. Ten times better than the old footstool and takes minimum effort (except for finding the pillow). <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xk4kg5ezNnw/Uw7ZgVlQ7zI/AAAAAAAAA6w/B5IJ9sdtruE/s1600/DSC_0259+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xk4kg5ezNnw/Uw7ZgVlQ7zI/AAAAAAAAA6w/B5IJ9sdtruE/s640/DSC_0259+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
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Remember to pin this post :) <br />
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