Still a little bit of winter left...

As much as we are all wishing for spring, there is some winter left (very evident on the East Coast). So for those of you who tend to shy away from color, or just gotta have their basic black, here's a couple of classic cardi's that will help you wrap up the winter season, and will become favorites in your closet. More spring styles to come in my Etsy shop -- big shop today...

Another Tablecloth Trick

My latest upcycling project has been hand towels made from tablecloths. Once a permanent fixture in kitchens and dining rooms, it seems that tablecloths have gone by the wayside, along with the popularity of daily ironing.

So to keep these classics still in circulation, I have cut them down to hand towel size, embellished them with various trims (mostly ruffles made from recycled sheets) and made them into something we use everyday (ironing optional).

Bedspread Blankets

Good 'ol chenille bedspreads. Did you have one growing up? Remember if you fell asleep on top of it you'd wake up with the funny marks on your face?

This popcorn chenille spread was rescued from a thrift store and given new life several times over. Combined with some recycled sheets and a duvet cover, I was able to create several little baby blankets. Second chance charm at its sweetest.

Good Bye Alexander

I was so saddened to read that Alexander McQueen passed away today. The rumor is he took his own life, just a week after his mother died. He was such an amazing creative talent in the fashion world, and while a lot of his designs may be thought of as over-the-top and perhaps "unwearable," they were still incredible works of art to admire. Rest in peace...

Feelin' Scrappy

I'm not one for clutter, or keeping things around "just in case"... However, I do make an exception with fabric. I have a hard time getting rid of fabric, even scraps. As a result, I have come up with a few ways to use my "scraps." My latest project is this fabric "pomander".

I cannot take credit for the idea (is there really ever an original idea anymore?!?! Seems like someone has done it already in some shape or form). The sad part is I can't remember where I saw the idea, but I know it was in blogville.

Basically the only supplies you need are:

Lightweight Fabric (these were curtain panels I got at Goodwill for $2)

4" Chinese Lantern

Scissors
Hot Glue

This is a great "watching TV" project. Just cut a bunch (and I mean a bunch) of 2" circles out of any lightweight fabric. Fold a circle in half and secure with glue in the middle. Then fold the circle again into a pie shape, add glue to point and secure to lantern. Repeat over and over and over again until the orb is covered. Like I said, a great project while watching your favorite show (which currently for me is either "Southland" on TNT, "The Good Wife", or "Lost" -- which starts tonight -- and of course -- "Project Runway"). Just don't burn your fingers.

I add a piece of card stock to the center, scented with essential oil, to make it into a decorative pomander, and of course a ribbon to hang it from your favorite spot.