Friday, March 27, 2009

Scented Cross Stitch Floss

DMC has just come out with a brand new line of floss for cross stitching – and it's scented! The line is called "Secret Perfume" and only has 12 different colours and scents. The 12 floss colours are divided into three different groups:
  • Flower Bouquet, which features four different flowery scents;
  • Tutti-Frutti, which features four different citrus fruits scents; and
  • Delicacies, which features four different desert flavoured scents.
The scents, or perfumes, are released when you touch the floss. The idea is that you will experience aroma therapy as you stitch. An interesting idea, but with so many people allergic to perfume, it will be interesting to see how well this new line of floss really sells.

Personally, I'm not a perfume lover and I may actually be allergic to perfume. But, I think I would probably have to try this new scented floss at least once. Just to see what it's like. How about you? Let me know by placing a comment below, or go to the About.com Guide to Cross Stitch and place your vote on “Would You Choose to Stitch With Scented Floss?”

Friday, March 20, 2009

Fabric Covered Magnets Project

Have you ever received a mini calendar in the mail? You know the kind that has a magnet at the top of the calendar with an ad for a real estate agent or dentist. What do you do with the magnet once the calendar year has finished?

Well, I've come up with a project that's the perfect way to recycle those magnets so that you don't have to throw them out in the garbage. It's a really simple project and it's really fast to complete! It's my Fabric Covered Magnet project.

Take a magnet from a mini calendar and tear off the calendar and the ad covering the magnet. Cut a piece of fabric slightly larger than the magnet. Using spray adhesive, glue the fabric to the magnet. Turn it over and spray the edges of the fabric. Fold the edges of the fabric over the magnet to create smooth edges. Your recycled magnet is now finished! Put it on your fridge and let it brighten your day every time you see it!


If you liked this project, you can find more free project ideas on my website. Try them out and leave a comment on my blog - I'd love to hear from you!

Friday, March 13, 2009

How To Make Your Own Craft Stiffener

Craft stiffener is an excellent way to make your crafts retain a specific shape over time, especially crochet projects. You can either buy stiffener from a craft store or you can make your own from sugar and water. It's very easy. Simply mix together one part water and one part sugar in a small pot. Stir the sugar until it has completely dissolved. Next, bring the mixture to a boil and then remove it from the heat.

Allow the mixture to cool a little and then dip your crochet project in it. Remove it from the mixture and use paper towels to soak up the excess moisture. Use Styrofoam or plastic containers to help you mold it into the desired shape and allow it to dry. Your craft project will now hold that shape permanently.

I hope you have found this tip useful. If you use it for any of your craft projects, crochet or other, please leave a comment below. I'd love to hear about what projects you are working on. For more helpful crochet tips and tricks, please visit Top 7 Crochet Tips today!

Friday, March 6, 2009

Free Baby Snake Doll Pattern

Are you looking for a project to do with the kids on a rainy weekend? Well, look no farther because I have the thing just for you. Here is a pattern to make a baby snake doll - and best of all, it's quick and easy to do!

Go to my website, Beautiful Creations, and print off the PDF file that contains the doll pattern. Then cut out both shapes. Either pin or trace the shapes onto the fabric and cut the shapes out.

If you want, cut out a thin short strip of felt to use for the tongue. Leave one end of the felt straight and cut a "V" into the other end. Next, place the right side of both pieces together and position the tongue at the front of the snake. Make sure that the tongue is placed between the two pieces and that the edge of the tongue is lined up with the edge of the material. Then sew the pieces together, leaving one end open.

Turn the snake doll inside out. Stuff it with loose batting, until the desired puffiness has been reached. Once you are happy with how the doll looks, sew the open end shut. Finally, place one rolly eye on each side of the snake's head. You now have made your very own baby snake doll!


If you liked this project, you can find more free project ideas on my website. Try them out and leave a comment on my blog - I'd love to hear from you!