Category: Arts & Crafts

M&J Blog > Arts & Crafts

Bookish DIY Roundup

Posted on January 26, 2014August 2, 2018 by M&J Trimming

Books are a wonderful way to escape from the mundane, dive into a new adventure, and ultimately spark creativity. We hope that the creative spark from reading will ignite you to make the DIYs below that are either inspired-by, made from or used for books!

Do you love cohesion in your home decor? Wrap your hardcover books in wallpaper a la A Merry Mishap to give them a harmonious vibe!

If there’s a vintage book that’s beyond repair, make it into a shelf with this fabulous tutorial from Sweet Paul Magazine!

Take your favorite book with you wherever you go with this Book Cover Clutch from Caroline Womack!

Go green with this cool Succulent Book Planter from Wednesday Custom Design! Succulents are a great choice for beginning gardeners because they don’t need much maintenance or watering!!

If you prefer not to DIY using books, you can always DIY your OWN books with this tutorial from Design Sponge!

So which book-themed DIY will YOU be making this weekend? Stay tuned because we will be showcasing our own bookish DIY this Tuesday!

Get a Hobby!

Posted on January 22, 2014August 7, 2018 by M&J Trimming

We think that the weirdest holidays can also be the best! Let’s take January for instance. This month is not only the first of the year, it’s also National Hobby Month. Maybe it’s the fact that taking up a new hobby is a common resolution, but whatever the reason for this wacky holiday we’ll embrace it with open arms! Here are some crafty hobbies you may not have heard of that we think you’re going to love.

Quilling is also known as paper filigree. It involves carefully curling and manipulating paper into desired shapes. We wonder if you could do this with starched ribbon! Oh the possibilities. If you want to get started, All Things Paper has great tutorials and resources!

If you’ve ever said something that you thought was worthy of a t-shirt, why don’t you try screen printing? It’s the process forcing ink through a mesh screen to create an image or pattern. Check out Instructables to learn the basics!

Despite their realistic appearance, these opals are made out of polymer clay! There are a lot of really cool tutorials on how to make faux gems from polymer clay like this one from Fall for DIY!

So everyone knows you can color with crayons, but did you know that you can carve them too?! These waxy mediums are perfect for whittling down into tiny colorful sculptures! The ones above were created by artist Diem Chau.

So macrame isn’t a new hobby at all, but we think it deserves a shout out because it can create such cool looking pieces! Think of the things you could make with our cord!

Taking up a new hobby can be fun and exciting, especially if its a crafty one! Have you taken up a new hobby recently? Let us know in the comments below!

How to Avoid DIY Disasters

Posted on January 20, 2014August 7, 2018 by M&J Trimming

You see something on Pinterest, you venture to get supplies, and next thing you know your hands are dyed blue, you’ve put out a small fire, and you have successfully Gem-tac’d and feathered yourself. The DIY Disaster. We’ve all been there! Sometimes DIYs can get a little out of hand, and we’re here to help. Here are a few of our tips to keep your crafts and projects from getting the best of you.

Read the Instructions – This may seem like a simple one, but going into a DIY unarmed with info and knowledge is a common mistake. Sometimes we get too excited to read them through! Sometimes we think we already know it all. Just do your future self a favor, and give those guides a good read-through. And then read them again. Just in case. If the project calls for a skill or item you aren’t familiar with, check out our resource guide!

Put It Aside – Sometimes you just need some space. If a project is causing you grief, just put it aside! Maybe during your break you’ll figure out how to fix the problem or get really excited about making it again. If you’ve put it aside over and over again, don’t feel guilty throwing it out. With some projects, it just isn’t meant to be.

Organized Craft Drawer from Papier Valise

Ready Your Troops – Get your materials and supplies ready BEFORE diving in because do you know what happens when you don’t prepare? You end up cutting your finger with a butter knife because you were trying to use it as a substitute for a pair of scissors. Be prepared.

Enjoy the Experience – The DIY is all about the journey, so don’t forget to enjoy it! It’s easy to get anxious about the result, but DIYing isn’t just about the final product. Flip on your favorite movie or show, rustle up a bowl of popcorn, and bask in your creativity. This is YOUR time.

What advice would YOU give to DIY novices?

Here’s to Hot Drinks!

Posted on January 12, 2014August 7, 2018 by M&J Trimming

When cold weather strikes, the first things we reach for are our cozy winter blankets and socks, and then we make our way into the kitchen to warm ourselves from the inside out with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or even a hot toddy if we’re battling a cold. Here are some of our favorite DIYs inspired by, using, or related to hot drinks!

Catch that loose leaf tea before it can make a break for it! Bad jokes aside, bagging loose tea is a terrific idea if you want to enjoy a specific tea flavor anywhere and anytime. This easy DIY from A Beautiful Mess makes tea time even more adorable.

Remember when we gave you some organizing tips for the new year? Well this yarn organizer is perfect for the caffeinated and cluttered. Reuse those old coffee cans and organize your life!

You’ve probably seen the baked marker mug DIYs online. This is a fun metallic version from Framed Frosting, and it will surely make you smile every time you see it. Polka dots are a known smile-inducer. Fact.

This ombre coffee set from Shrimp Salad Circus is a must-make in our book. It’s perfect for sharing and enjoying a hot drink with someone special!

Glam. That’s the word that comes to mine when you see this gorgeous mug from Une Touche de Rose. Who needs rings when your coffee mug has its own bling?!

So how will you be upgrading your hot drink routine?

Easy Holiday Gift Upgrades

Posted on January 6, 2014August 2, 2018 by M&J Trimming

Have you ever received a gift that just wasn’t your style? Maybe it was too simple, maybe it was too loud. Whatever the reason, you’re thankful for the gift and wouldn’t ever want to throw it out. But what do you do? Stick it in the back of your closet never to see the light of day? Not so fast! Here are some ways to make that meh gift your favorite of the bunch!

Jeweled Sweater

Did you get a piece of jewelry that has way too much going on? Break it apart and use the individual pieces for something else. You can add baubles to a pair of shoes, or make your shoulders shine by sewing your gems onto a basic sweater.

You’re a music lover, but also a fashionista, so those basic headphones might not do. Upgrade them by adding nailheads, gems or even embroidered flowers!

Make those boots made for walking into boots made for strutting! If you have enough basic boots in your closet, make these a fun pair by adding a sweater or some fun leather trim to them!

Got a home decor item that doesn’t match your style? Oh the DIYs you could do! Rit Dye will become your best friend. So will beaded trim and jacquard ribbons because they turn the boring and bland into unbelievable.

Did you receive a gift you didn’t absolutely love? Just DIY it into something you can’t live without!

DIY This NYE

Posted on December 27, 2013August 2, 2018 by M&J Trimming

The holidays are so relaxing, said no one..ever. Even though Christmas is over, New Year’s is hot on our heels! We know you’ve probably started perusing Pinterest for some New Year’s DIYs, and we have been too. Here are some of our favorite DIYs to make before the big night.

These Countdown Champagne Glasses from Martha Stewart are a gorgeous way to ring in the New Year!

A more dramatic way to decorate your stemware can be found on Linen Lace and Love! They use a marbling technique to get those abstract patterns on each glass making every one unique!

Avoid the crowd in Times Square with your own mini-spiked balls from The Sweetest Occasion. They are great for adding some sparkle to a tablescape.

Strike a pose against this sequin photo backdrop from Oh Happy Day!

Tinsel Wrapped Numbers from Ruffled Blog

We love these tinsel covered letters! You could make a monogram for your home using the same concept, and some beautiful ribbon.

So what are you waiting for?! Get that glue gun out, and start crafting before the ball drops!

Project DIY: Baroque n’ Roll Unveiling

Posted on December 19, 2013July 31, 2018 by M&J Trimming

This December our monthly DIY subscription service, Project DIY, came out with a collection inspired by the Baroque Style. This popular runway trend emanates radiance, drama and luxury, and is perfect for the holiday season.

While we announced the theme earlier this month, we have kept the projects under wraps. After weeks of waiting, we ‘re excited to finally unveil the Project DIY Baroque n’ Roll projects!

The Baroque Pearl Hand Adornment is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Our beautiful cameo and pearl rosary connects to an elegant filigree ring with a sparkling rhinestone chain. It’s adds an unexpected sparkle to your outfit.

These Belle of the Ball Earrings are a fantastic way to add Baroque-inspired flair to any look. These earrings combine some of the most beloved elements from this collection, from the pearls to the intricate gold detailing.

The Gem and Lace Headband from the Baroque n’ Roll collection is a true showstopper. This project allows you to dabble in a new skill, sewing! Crafters sew the gorgeous lace trim into a fashionable headband, and attach the jeweled adornment to make it a sparkling statement piece.

You can wear these gorgeous projects together for a decadent and glamorous look, or wear each piece individually for some understated elegance. Which project are you most looking forward to making?

Holiday Ornament DIY Roundup

Posted on December 8, 2013August 7, 2018 by M&J Trimming

Feeling crafty, but don’t want to commit to a long and time-consuming project? How about creating some cute ornaments for your holiday tree? Take a look at these DIYs, and let us know which YOU’LL be making over the weekend!

These cinnamon-scented ornaments from Babble are fun to make, and make your house smell inviting and seasonal!

These incredible glitter ornaments are a fantastic way to add some magic and mystery to your Christmas tree. Plus, since the glitter is on the inside of the ornament, your floor will remain glitter free. Unless you want your floor to be covered in glitter. Totally up to you.

These hot air balloon ornaments look like they’ve been plucked out of a storybook. They add the perfect amount of whimsy to any tree!

This button embellished ornament is incredible. We love the use of different styles and sizes to give it a more vintage look. We would suggest hanging this ornament on a lower, sturdier branch because it’s probably pretty heavy!

We made these tree ornaments on our blog a few years back, and we still love them! Who says you can’t put tree ornaments on trees? Not us. We say go for it!

Making ornaments for the holidays is one of our favorite DIYs because ornaments are so quick to make, and each can be easily customized! They’re also a great way to bond with friends and family, and are a perfect reminder of family and friendship every holiday season! Which ornament is your favorite and why?

DIY: Holiday Ribbon Tree

Posted on December 3, 2013August 7, 2018 by M&J Trimming

Looking for an elegant way to decorate your mantel? These ribbon trees are just the ticket, and the best part is that they are so simple to make that you almost feel guilty. Almost. Find out how to make them below!

Large Tree

Ribbon Tree DIY Materials | M&J Trimming

What You’ll Need:

40mm Imported Double Face Satin Ruffled Edging #33567 (Cream)

Rhinestone Bijou Button #19846 (35mm) (Crystal Silver)

SS34 Fuchsia Flatbacks

SS34 Tanzanite Flatbacks

SS34 Crystal Flatbacks

Styrofoam Cone

Pins

T-Pins

Glue

Scissors

Ribbon Tree DIY | M&J Trimming

1. Wrap the ruffled satin edging around the bottom of the cone until both ends meet, and pin the ends to the styrofoam.

Ribbon Tree DIY Cutting | M&J Trimming

2. Cut where the ribbon ends meet. Ribbon Tree DIY Ribbon Layers | M&J Trimming

3. Repeat the steps above until you reach the top of the tree.

Ribbon Tree DIY Rhinestone Button | M&J Trimming

4. Take one of the rhinestone buttons, and adhere it onto the top of the tree with a t-pin.

Ribbon Tree DIY Rhinestone Ornaments | M&J Trimming

5. Glue your flatback rhinestones onto the ribbon in a sporadic pattern to represent ornaments.

Ribbon Tree DIY Finished Cream Tree | M&J Trimming

Small Tree

Ribbon Tree DIY Materials | M&J Trimming

What You’ll Need:

40mm Imported Double Face Satin Pleated #33566 (Dusty Rose)

Rhinestone Button #19840 (22mm) (Crystal)

SS34 Fuchsia Flatbacks

SS34 Tanzanite Flatbacks

SS34 Crystal Flatbacks

Styrofoam Cone

Pins

T-Pins

Glue

Scissors

1. Wrap the ruffled satin edging around the bottom of the cone until both ends meet, and pin the ends to the styrofoam.

2. Cut where the ribbon ends meet.

3. Repeat those steps until you reach the top of the tree.

Ribbon Tree DIY Rhinestone Button | M&J Trimming

4. Take a rhinestone button, and adhere it onto the top of the tree with a t-pin.

Ribbon Tree DIY Rhinestone Ornament | M&J Trimming

5. Glue your flatback rhinestones onto the ribbon in a sporadic pattern to represent ornaments.

Ribbon Tree DIY Finished Pink | M&J Trimming

Finished Ribbon Tree

These Ribbon Trees are the perfect centerpiece for a holiday dinner, or an excellent decor element for your mantle. Wherever you decide to display them, they’ll add a bit of holiday cheer to any spot!

Tips for Holiday Decorating

Posted on December 2, 2013August 7, 2018 by M&J Trimming

Does holiday decorating have you stressed out? Don’t fret because we’re here to help. Here are a few tips to keep your holiday decorations from getting the best of you.

Tiny Prints Holiday Garland

Simply Styled – Pick a theme before you start decorating. Do some Pinterest perusing and Tumblr digging for fun and festive ideas. Keep the same style throughout the house so that you can easily move items around, and the space will still feel cohesive.

Color Combinations – If your home is generally neutral and not decor-heavy, you can get away with some interesting color combinations. If your house is already pretty colorful, keeping to a simple color palette will help keep your holiday decor from looking over-the-top.

Child’s Play – If you have kids, you probably cherish their artist creations. Here is their time to shine! The holidays are one of the best times to showcase your child’s festive art. Even though they may not match your theme or coordinate with your color palette, they add a sweet touch to any home.

Bring the Outdoors In – Decorating with natural elements is one way to keep your holiday decor from being too stuffy. It adds a nice rustic touch to any home, and the natural scents of the season are absolutely incredible! There’s nothing like having your whole house smell like a huge pine forest!

DIY It – We obviously love DIYing, and the holidays are the perfect time of year to “do it yourself”. You can save a lot of money by decorating with items that you already have at home! If you love to DIY your decor, don’t forget to go to mjtrim.com for your decorating needs! We have an amazing sale on ribbons, trims, buttons and notions for Cyber Monday, but don’t delay because the offer is only good today!

Remember that these are just suggestions, and if you prefer a different style of decorating, go for it! You may be allergic to pine or prefer to have a rainbow of colors at your holiday table, and these tips may not work for you. Just make sure you’re having fun during the process!