A Simple DIY – Fabric Covered Boxes. *

Posted in Creative Chaos by Twine With A Twist

Today’s DIY is all about simple solutions to creative storage! When creating my Craft Room this past spring, I knew I needed to find additional storage solutions for some of my miscellaneous materials. With a limited budget and a lot of boxes, I came to the crafty conclusion that I needed to find a frugal solution. I decided to once again utilize some of my fabric scraps to create a project that could both match the current decor and get rid of some materials I already had lying around. With that, I bring you: Fabric Covered Boxes – A Simple DIY!

When it came to this project, I was a last-minute idea that I opted for as the solution was something I could easily put together with supplies just lying around. I had a variety of boxes just scattered about our garage that I would have otherwise tossed in the trash if not for this last minute idea. I have always adored the little fabric boxes at the craft stores but don’t want to shell out $15 and up per box. While our craft room is mainly Ikea shelving, we knew that the $13.00 boxes they sell in store were cute, but financially NOT an option. I could never spend that much! With that I found an alternative to each cube. . . but I still needed more room! That’s where the fabric and old boxes comes in. . . .

For supplies, lets keep is short and simple:

Cardboard Box(es) – Any Size
Fabric – Enough to wrap the outside of your box with about an inch of additional overhang.
Staple Gun
Staples

When deciding on this project, I went with staples. I just LOVE my staple gun because it’s quick and efficient. After creating this post I have since discovered that some people opted for glue. This is totally up to you and I will not pretend that everyone has a staple gun. (Technically I don’t even have one, it’s my father in-law’s gun but I’ve had it over a year and I’m pretty sure he’s since forgotten. #ThanksPat). I also realize that a lot of people have covered boxes with lids, I however did not. I didn’t have any boxes lying around with lids at the time and didn’t require them for this project. If you would like to cover the lid in fabric the directions would be exactly the same. If you do, I would love to see the results!!

So on to the Directions:

Step one: Find some cardboard boxes!

I decided on a Meijer diaper box and a Costco Waffle Box. #TheInnerWorkingsOfMyWorld. Both were empty and ready for trash day, until I came to the rescue!

Step Two: Find Your Fabric.

I always opt for the fabrics that I have lying around. If you’re anything like me, you probably have plenty of random scraps in a variety of size. If not, this project utilized less than a yard of fabric for both boxes. I decided on two different fabrics as they provided the most room for error along with some fun colors !

Step Three: Grab Your Staple Gun & Load With Staples!

Step Four: Iron Your Fabric!! – This is a step that I forgot and couldn’t have been more annoyed! Once I wrapped my boxes, stapled and stuffed with goodies – I realized that one of the boxes had a big fat crease (or three) in the fabric. #mortifying. As I’m completely lazy and slightly laid back, I just left it. . . but if I had the chance to do it again, I would have made the extra effort.

Step Five: Lay your box – open end up – directly in the middle of your fabric. Fold each side of the fabric up so that it covers each side of the box and then fold the additional 1 inch overlay over the inside edge of your box. I wrapped my box as if I was wrapping a present and wanted to keep the fold to accent the pattern. If you’re looking to have no folds showing, fold each corner at a 45 degree angle and cut off the additional fabric before you overlay your edges. Regardless of your folds, make sure the fabric is tightly wrapped.

Step Six: Start Stapling!

Now if you ask me, you can never have enough staples. I’ll admit, now that I’m looking at these photos, I may have gotten a little trigger happy- but hey, at least it’s secure! Make sure when stapling the fabric to the inside of your box that you’re consistently pulling your fabric tight to avoid and ripples in the fabric!

Step 7: Step Back & Admire! – Fill with whatever your little heart desires!

So That’s It! In less than 15 minutes you can have some incredibly cute storage solutions and you didn’t have to spend a penny! (Unless you of course opted to buy new fabric. . . .which in that case, I commend you for making the extra effort and hopefully you didn’t spend too much!!) This is one of those projects that just makes me smile. I always enjoy getting something out of nothing! – To think these boxes were almost trash!

Have any of you ever created something cute out of a lot of nothing just lying around? I love to hear about new DIY’s! Also, for a fun Thursday Link-Up, make sure you check out Lindsay over at Artsy Fartsy Mama for her crafty and creative Artsy Corner Thursdays! Share your current projects and meet new people!

Cheers!

15Apr2014

Pigeons, Parties & Personal Celebration *

Posted in Mimosas & Mommyhood by Twine With A Twist

OK- so the day has finally arrived!! I just got word from Big Honcho Media of the first of 10 Blog Parties featuring the book release, The Pigeon Needs A Bath – By Mo Willems! I couldn’t be more excited to share this with all of you ♥. Essentially, a few weeks back, Twine With A Twist (My Etsy Shop) was asked to create 10 photo booth backdrops for Big Honcho Media. From there, these backdrops would be shipped out to 10 different blogger’s homes in which they would utilize them while hosting a Book Release Party for the newly introduced title of Mo’s collection.

Now for any of you that know me, this is absolutely FANTASTIC. While I am in no way a professional anything, my passion for creativity for exceeds my fears of failure, so naturally this was an exciting opportunity. I was so completely thrilled to not only be receiving such a huge order from a respected marketing agency in New York (My Favorite City), but to be supplying my personal products to other bloggers whom I’ve never met! This was such an honor and I couldn’t help but jump up and down! #Literally.

Once I arranged to complete the order, I asked the wonderful ladies over at Big Honcho if they would mind sending me the links to these incredible parties so that I could take a look at how the final products were used. Much to my surprise, they totally agreed!!

Now THIS is exciting: not only do I get to witness my order being truly enjoyed, but I get to meet and follow along with some incredible new bloggers! It’s a total WIN-WIN. In the world of someone who’s just starting out in both Blogging AND Etsy, it’s been a true honor to take part in this exciting arrangement! So anyhow, let’s get down to business: First off, a little background on the featured book, Mo Willems and his entire “Pigeon Series”.

The Pigeon really needs a bath! Except, the Pigeon’s not so sure about that. Besides, he took a bath last month! Maybe. It’s going to take some serious convincing to try and get the Pigeon to take the plunge.

First in the series, Don’t Let Pigeon Drive the Bus celebrates its 10^th birthday this year! Over the last decade, The Pigeon books have sold millions of copies and enchanted young readers. The books have received numerous starred reviews, have appeared on many “best of” lists, and have even been inducted into the Indies Choice Picture Book Hall of Fame.

For any of you that have children, this series is fantastic! I had to catch up as soon as I heard of the book release and author. Mo is an absolute genius! With a number of children’s stories and both fun and interactive ways to learn, it’s a selection you won’t want to pass on – and at an affordable price!! #WhatEveryMomWantsToHear.

If you want to learn more visit: http://www.pigeonpresents.com/ or follow along on Twitter: @The_Pigeon

Also: Check out this Fun and FREE 10th Birthday Celebration Activity Set – Perfect for the kiddos in your world!

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Secondly, the parties. Now If any of you know me, I’m always one for a great themed event. . . and this blogger truly speaks to me! Kami over at NoBiggie is one amazing lady! With a flare for the creative and a laundry list of accomplished editorials, she’s a super mother! While I am just getting to know her blog (I just received this blog late last night), I am currently consumed with her story and am quickly becoming one of her biggest fans for a variety of reasons. #NICUMommiesUnite! Seriously, she’s a total inspiration and the idea of checking out her blog isn’t just a thoughtful suggestion, it’s an order! When it came to this book release, it’s easy to see why Kami would be such an amazing candidate for a suggestive party. . . This woman knows how to throw an event! Below is a photo from the Pigeon Party. I mean look at these baskets! Are you kidding me? She’s incredibly crafty and I love her ability to totally nail a theme. It’s strictly adorable and I can’t help but wish I had been invited!

For more details and Kami’s fabulous photography of this amazing little get-together please click here. You won’t be disappointed!

Next To Be Found (Updated Mid-Day April 15th, 2014) – Tonya over at Create-Celebrate-Explore & TonyaStaab.com. This party just tugs at my heart strings! A simple- yet utterly creative baby shower, Tonya completely transforms your typical baby brunch into the most incredibly cute event! With tons of activities and an adorable diaper “Pigeon in the Tub” cake to boot, this fabulous shower is how every mother should welcome their next addition. Seriously, I just LOVE everything about it: The onesies, cinnamon roll french toast casseroles (WHAT??), pineapple orange juice, mini donuts. I mean what in the world? I wish I was having another. When I’m due for my second, I’m calling Tonya! I also adore what she did with my backdrop, instead of the typical photo booth she opted to use it as a table skirt. It couldn’t have looked better. It really ties in the hint of rustic chic she’s polished off- this really is just an incredible post so make sure to check it out here.

Next up on #ThePigeonParty blog list (Updated Late-Afternoon April 15th, 2014) was MaryLea over at Pink And Green Momma. She took the approach that any amazing teacher would and turned this Pigeon Party into an fantastic learning experience! Utilizing all the amazing guides and event kits available on the Pigeon’s Website, MaryLea combined her knowledge for education with her creative intuition to provide some excellent learning opportunities! Two-sided Pigeons along with fun little worksheets made for an eventful afternoon in the classroom. With a kid-friendly menu and a bath tub photo booth, it’s sure to please any silly student! I just loved what she did with the backdrop in her blog post and the attention to detail is incredibly fun. I hope my daughter has a teacher like MaryLea one day!!

For more on her incredible Classroom Pigeon Party click Here.

To Follow All The Events: #ThePigeonParty

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Lastly, a big Thank You to all of the people in my life that have been supporting me on this crazy avenue I’ve coined “Creative Chaos”. Without your hopeful wishes and consistent encouragement, I wouldn’t be where I am today. While I still have a lot to learn, my adoration for the process of which it is to grow in my own creative process has definitely begun and where it’s headed is anybody’s guess!

I’m hopeful that opportunities such as this can continue in my future and that I will grow in faith, skill and humble amusement along the path. For it’s truly a beautiful sight to see a career and a passion become one, and I hope to one day achieve such a goal! While the act of working a steady career, a part-time passion, creating a home and growing a small family is more than enough to keep my plate full . . . I will always strive to be better today than I was yesterday and thanks to excellent opportunities, I can become a little more grateful than each day before. So thank you again, it’s always worth sharing some happiness. ♥

For further updates and continued Pigeon Party Blog additions, check back often as this post may be continuously updated with each additional event! Also, make sure you chime in every Tuesday morning with the Lets Be Friends Blog Hop hosted by the wonderful ladies at The Dwelling Tree and Southern Beauty Guide. I’ve been checking it out these past few weeks and finally decided today would be the perfect opportunity get in on the action. While I’m exceptionally late to this weeks link-up, it’s a great way to share new content, meet new people and just genuinely enjoy a few good posts! Hope to see you there.

Cheers,

11Dec2013

Gifts for the Girls *

Posted in Creative Chaos by Twine With A Twist

So this holiday season has been a bit of a stretch on the wallet. With tying the knot in May, 8 weddings to finish the 2013 season, 30+ Bach/Bachelorette & Showers, a remodeled kitchen and the significant setback of placing our daughter in Montessori, it’s been one hell of a year! Simply put, we are broke! And no, we aren’t eating Ramen every night but I’m not out buying myself the latest Prada either. (AS IF I ever was before!) HA. We are getting by for now but this process has definitely got me thinking outside the box….. But through my obsession with Pinterest, Etsy and my ability to think up a craft over a simple cup of tea, I’ve decided that this year my best girlfriends are getting a simple yet personal gift of my choosing!

Along with the help of some simple computer skills, (and trust me when I say simple) a little patience for downloading some outrageously fun fonts, and a Costco Membership I have come up with the idea to create a chalkboard poster with out all the excessive chalk paint and additional expenses! As I am a HUGE fan of the rustic/vintage themes lately. *Our entire wedding was rustic everything. . . . I have compromised authentic with creative and come up with a thoughtful gift I hope they will truly enjoy.

You see, my two best friends, Heather & Rachel ( & Dual Maid of Honors), just recently moved in together. Roommates since college, I sometimes still pine for the days we could watch One Tree Hill and eat movie theatre popcorn in between classes. (Yes Heather would literally stop at the movie theatre on her way home just to purchase a large popcorn. . . . No she wasn’t high.) No responsibilities and zero motivation, it was a magical time. To be honest I can’t say I even watched any of their shows. . . I was never much of a TV person growing up but I loved to sit in the room and interrupt the most important points in each episode. . . . I’m sure anyone that knows me is not in any way shocked by this. In all actuality, I was a late bloomer when it came to watching addictive television. It hit me around age 25 when I was on maternity leave, right about the time when everyone on planet earth had placed the shows I was just starting in the category of “that’s so last decade”. . . . due to a little bug I caught called NetFlix. I mean honestly, have you people ever tried to watch just ONE episode of Grey’s Anatomy on that thing, OR Gossip Girl for that matter?? It’s like one episode just rolls right into the other, it’s impossible to get off the train. A whole new world for me. . . or a lack there of. I’m not entirely sure.

Regardless, Once we graduated we all went our separate ways. Heather moved off to San Diego after college and Rachel stayed at home in Rochester pursuing careers in the automotive arena. I stuck out the introduction of this Great Recession in the bar for another year following graduation only to land myself a marketing career in the greater Detroit area where I met my husband and began my life as it is today. While we grew in distance we grew closer as friends. . . .With my wedding on the way, Heather was spending an awful lot of time and $$money$$ flying back and forth for the special occasion. A Mitten Lover at heart, Heather made the decision to make her move back home just after my nuptials. It was the greatest of news and I like to think my wedding made this happen! 3 years on the West Coast was FAR too long for me and Rachel to go with out. After some last minute moves, the girls settled into their house in Royal Oak and we’ve been making an effort to spend more time together ever since.

Rachel – Me – Heather

When Heather first moved home, we hoped to make her transition as easy as possible. We knew she was giving up an awful lot back in California to come here and while we wanted to jump up and down in excitement, we in no way wanted to diminish what she may be experiencing as she left her friends and career behind. This Christmas gift was actually inspired from the initial gift I gave Heather when she moved home. As a way of making her move a little lighter, I printed a Subway Art poster for her of all the most important places in San Diego.

After a lot of thought and creative digging, I came up with the idea to create a chalkboard design with a framed, finished feeling. I started by searching for the perfect backdrop. . . .Google. It’s as simple as that. I typed in “Chalk Board Back Drop” and tada! A thousand options. My advice is to look at the pixels and measurements and look for the largest option photo possible as this wont blur or distort when you go to stretch as a background. Below is my favorite option. It has a little dusty finish, a truly authentic feel:

Now me personally, I’m an Apple girl at ♥. I have the obvious experience with Office as I think it’s somewhat essential in this day and age but with a Graphic Artist for a father, we never owned a PC a day in our lives. I’d like to keep it that way. While I have recently acquired the entire Adobe Suite, I have yet to really master it. . . . so this little project will be put together in Pages. For those of you unfamiliar with the program, it can be easily done in Word as well. To start I chose a 16”x 20″ page setting and stretched this fantastic chalkboard to reach each edge. (Adjust your margins to 0″.) I decided on a 16″x20″ layout because I will be printing these off at Costco. For the amazing price of $5.99 you can print a 16’x20″ photo on a lustre finish that’s the perfect touch for any piece of framed art. Not too matted but just enough shine, it’s a fantastic service and I LOVE the Costco Photo Center. So fast and always spot on!

Once the background was in place, it’s just a matter of creating your own design. I stuck with a similar layout for each girl but substituted fonts and words in each piece of work. Next, I downloaded SO many FREE Fonts from a variety of sites. You can google Free Font sites but from personal experience, I recommend getting on Pinterest and searching “free fonts”. You’ll be amazed at what you can come up with. I found so many fun fonts, especially for a chalky feel. I must have spent 2 hours just downloading fonts. . . . This was by far the most time consuming portion of this project. (By the way you in NO way have to spend that much time or download as many fonts as I did. I just couldn’t help myself. . . I’m a freak like that!) Make sure to check out my pinned fonts here. Also, some of my favorite Chalkboard Fonts I found on the fantastic blog: The36thAvenue.com . She had some Excellent Fonts that I used in this project.

*Some of my personal font favorites are: Return To Sender, Scribble Box, Dirty Cursive, and Chalk Line Outline. I also love the font Broken Hearts for cutesy little heart images that can really accent a project! ( I do a lot of prints for weddings so this in turn is a GREAT font for me.).

After I decided on fonts and what not (obviously the most important part of this post!!), I simply would insert a text box for each word I wanted to use to describe the girls. I would resize each box to fit the desired space, use a multitude of type sizes, fonts, etc. and then finish it off by making each word White as to appear the color of chalk on a board. . . . the finished product turned out a little something like this!

!!AHHHH!!

I can’t express how excited I am to get these printed! I think they turned out so fantastic and can hardly wait to find the perfect white frames to finish them off. Upon finishing such a project I can honestly say that my imagination is running absolutely wild. I can’t stop thinking of the next best print I can come up with! If you’ve had a chance to check out my Etsy site, you will see that I had previously designed some rustic prints for your special day but now that I’ve created this personal gift, I can’t wait to craft, craft, craft! Have you crafted any gifts this season?? IF so PLEASE Share!

*SideNote: Any recommendations on Netflix shows you have enjoyed? I am always looking for the next best show! (Even if it is 10 years ago!!) HaHa Thanks!! 🙂

Cheers,

♥ – C

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