Tag: Tutorial

Back To School 2018: DIY Preppy Backpack

It’s that time of year again, the one that students dread and parents love: Back to School Season. The fall semester starts in about a month so it’s about time to start creating some great new school supplies, for a great price! I am going to start this series with an essential: the backpack. Today, we are creating the perfect, basic, preppy-style backpack which is perfect for every student who wants to update their backpack for the new school year!

Today’s Look: The Preppy Student

What You’ll Need:

Instructions:

Step 1: Cut zipper tassels already on bag off with scissors. Then, loop leather cord through zipper and cut to desired length, making a loop.

 

Take thinner cord and tie in a knot around the loop to hold it together. Wrap thin cord around and then tie in a knot twice to secure. Cut off excess of both cords. Repeat for all other zippers on bag.

Step 2: Take white grosgrain ribbon and striped grosgrain ribbon and layer them on top of each other, then glue with E6000 glue. Wait for it to dry a bit, then you can begin to line your backpack with it.

Glue ribbon to the inside part of the zipper flap and then fold to begin lining the backpack along the zipper.

Continuously glue as you go until the ribbon is all the way across the top of the backpack. To finish, fold over flap and glue, the same as when you started the ribbon.

Step 3: Using the same ribbon layered and glued on top of each other, glue to the side pockets of the backpack (if there are any) using E6000 glue. Tip: Use binder clips to secure ribbon while drying to make sure it stays in place!

Step 4: Now we are going to apply the letters! Lay out your monogram in the desired order and lay a thin piece of fabric on top in order to protect the letters from the iron.

Then, use your iron to press down onto the patches for about 20 seconds, or until they are attached to the bag.

Remove fabric for the finished look!

 

DIY: Gucci Inspired Embroidered Fall Coat

Gucci has been bringing its A-game these last few seasons with downright decadent designs. They’ve used an amalgam of textures, fabrics and embroidery to create eclectic but wearable collections. I personally love the slew of tigers in various forms on everything from dresses to coats. The only thing that isn’t easy on the eyes or the wallet is their price tag. I like the idea of owing beautiful things without having to empty my bank account, so I made this Gucci Inspired Coat that’s way more affordable and super easy to create.

Gucci’s Embroidered Coats

 

Our Version

Price does not include cost of the coat.

 

What you’ll need: 

All these beautiful patches:

A coat

An iron

A thin cotton cloth to cover the patches while you iron

 

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Place patches how you want them and take a picture so you know where everything goes. I stuck to the body of the coat but you can get creative with the back and the sleeves. If you want to keep it simple, you can just add flowers to the lapel.

 

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Set the iron to high with no steam. Place a thin cotton cloth or teflon sheet over the patch and hold the iron down for 20 seconds. Repeat if necessary. Do this with all the patches.

 

And guess what? That’s it. You’re done. Yup, it’s that simple.

*This item is currently unavailable. Check out our full selection of floral patches.

DIY: Art Deco Earrings

Art deco marks a time of guilty pleasures and luxury. Think modern geometric architecture and flapper dresses. Think Gatsby. I’ve always loved the 20s and wanted to channel that into a pair of earrings that are modern yet reminiscent of more glamorous times. If you love Art Deco as much as I do you’re going to love these earring DIYs.

Color Block Leather/Vinyl Earrings

What you’ll need:

Leather/Vinyl Trim in different colors. We used these:

Pink

Green

Black

Scissors

Pliers

Jump Rings

Slide Connectors

Ear Wire Hooks

Card Stock for Template (A ruler would work too)

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Using a template or a ruler I marked and cut out 3/4″ wide strips from the leather/vinyl. I did this with the pink and green.

 

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Then, using one of the cut trims as a measurement, I marked the width on the black vinyl. I then cut out a square and marked a triangle on it. Cut out the triangle.

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Then, I lay each strip on top of the other so they’re overlapping about a 1/4″. I then use a sharp pin to poke holes on either end. I repeat this for the rest of the pieces.

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Next, I put a jump ring through the holes to connect the pieces. Repeat this with all of the pieces.

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Lastly, I used a slide connector, usually used on necklaces and bracelets, on the top piece. I used a pair of pliers to clamp it down. I like the hammered effect on the gold so I didn’t mind the dents the pliers made. I then added the earring hook to the loop on top.

And you’re done!

Neutral Color Block Earrings

What you’ll need:

3 colors of leather or vinyl. We used these:

Black

Brown

Tan

Scissors

Earring Hooks

Jump Rings

Magna-tac

Card Stock for Templates

1

Using card stock, cut out two circles of different sizes. I used a 2 inch and 1 inch circle. Using the templates I cut out 2 black circles with the 2″ template and 2 brown circles with the 1″ template. I also cut out a 1.5 inch square out of the tan. This makes one earring so double it for 2.

2

Apply a thin layer of Magna-tac to the black circle and glue it in half. Repeat it with the other black circle.

3

Apply Magna-tac to the brown circles. Glue one black semi circle a 3/8″ in. Glue the second on a 3/8″ from the bottom. Then apply the second brown circle on top.

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Cut a little fringe out of the tan square and glue it to the center.

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Poke a hole through the top with a pin or sharp object. Put a jump ring through it and attach the earring hook before closing it.

Ta da!

DIY: Rope Basket

I know this DIY’s been making the rounds for a while now and I wanted to jump in and try one myself. I did want to put a spin on it by using different types of ropes so I get different textures instead of sticking to cotton rope. Check out these easy steps to make your own rope basket.

What you’ll need:
  • Rope (I used this one and used about 15 yards)
  • Glue Gun (and at least 10 glue sticks)
  • Spray Paint (optional)
  • A shape to mold your basket around. Something uniform in shape or tapering to the bottom works best. I use this lampshade I had lying around
  • Tape

1

It’s important to know what shape you’re going to end up with. In my case, my lamp shade which I’m using as a base, is round. So I glue the rope on itself with the smallest turn.

If I was making a rectangular basket my first turn would be long.

2

You then have to keep adding a thing line of glue and wrapping the rope around the first turn. Keep doing this till you finish the bottom of your basket.

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Once you reach the size you want, place the lamp shade or whatever base you’re using over it and make sure the bottom is one turn bigger than the bottom of the lamp. You then start applying glue on top the rope instead of the side and start wrapping it around the lamp.

Keep in mind you’re not gluing the rope TO the lamp shade. You’re just using it as a shape to mold your basket around.

4

Let it cool for a couple of minutes and take the basket out.

5

This step is optional.

I taped the top edge of the basket and added two coats of silver metallic spray paint. Make sure you do this in a well ventilated area and wear a mask to protect yourself.

DIY: Matching Infinity Bracelets

Finding a gift for your mom is one of the hardest things to do. There’s nothing that can express your gratitude and love for someone who’s loved and cared for you selflessly all your life (and before!). But every year, in May, we try! A mother and child’s bond is forever and we wanted to express that with these simple DIY Infinity Bracelets, one for you and one for your mom, so you can wear your special link wherever you go.

What you’ll need:

Gold Link Chain

Suede Cord

Pliers

E6000

Cord Ends

Jump Rings

Lobster Claw Closure

Step 1: Measure your the cord wrapped snugly around your wrist and cut. Do the same with the second color. Cut the chain to the same length.

Step 2: Apply a little E6000 to the ends of the cords and insert into the cord end. Let it dry. Once it’s dry you can use a flat nose plier to flatten the cord end to pinch the cord and secure it.

Step 3: Add a jump ring, linking the two cord ends.

Step 4: Loop the chain inside the cord and connect the ends with a jump ring. Before closing the jump ring add a lobster claw closure.


And you’re done!

We hope your mom loves it!

15 DIY Gifts For Mom

The best gifts Mom can receive for Mothers Day are those made from the heart. Mothers seem to love and appreciate just about anything you make them, and you don’t have to be a little kid to give Mom something handmade. These craft ideas are creative ways to show mom just how much you care (and secure your spot as favorite child). Visit M&J Trimming for the supplies you need then follow these step by step tutorials to give your Mom one of these special DIY Mothers Day gifts this year.

1. Ribbon Vase

Cluster pink peonies and tulips, red roses, and chartreuse verbena in an oversized square vase wrapped in striped and polka-dotted ribbons. Hot-glue the backs of the ribbons and adhere them to the vase (or substitute heavy-duty double-faced tape).

Your mom will love this simple yet fun DIY Ribbon Vase. Here’s how to make it.

2. Tassel Necklace

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For a simpler version use these tassels from M&J Trimming. Get the full tutorial here.

3. Mason Jar Picture Frame

How to make a mason jar vase and frame

This DIY is simple enough for kids to do mostly by themselves and it screams spring with the bright colors. Full Tutorial.

4. Blooming Monogram

Blooming Monogram DIY at LuLus.com!

Help Mom brighten up your home decor by adding M&J silk flowers to her monogram. Learn how here.

5. Button Rings

Get a load of this fresh notion for something you probably already have around the house! Emily Peters sells these baubles at our Country Living Fairs (emmalou vintage.etsy.com), but she's also generous enough to tell you how to craft your own. If you become so carried away that you need more buttons, Etsy.com has a killer selection of vintage ones. Step 1: Start with an adjustable brass "ring blank," the band that wraps around your finger ($6.50 for 10; findings.etsy.com). Step 2: If your button has a shank on the back, snip it off with wire-cutting pliers and sand down the back surface with a rotary tool (Dremel 4.8-volt, $24.97; homedepot.com). Step 3: Apply a thin layer of metal-bonding glue (Beacon's Glass, Metal & More glue, $6.99 for two ounces; createforless.com) to the back of your button, then adhere it to the top of the ring blank. If you'd like to add a second button, apply a thin layer of the glue to its back side, then adhere it atop the first button. Let dry for 24 hours.

Button jewelry is one of the latest trends, so help Mom look fabulous for Mothers Day with these rings. Instructions found here.

6. Scarf or Ribbon Watchband

It's easy to fall in love with vintage scarves at flea markets and thrift stores. The hard part? Finding a fresh way to wear the ladylike relics. Here's one: Just remove the straps from a watch, then weave a scarf through the watch's lugs (the bars that hold the straps in place). Wrap the scarf's ends around your wrist and secure with a knot to make a timely fashion statement.

For a different look, use ribbon instead of scarves for the band and then tie with a pretty bow.  Tutorial.

7. Lace Handbag

Make it any size! For the lining, cut two fabric circles, about 3/4 inch smaller than the two doilies. Right sides together, sew together the lining pieces, leaving an opening at the top; turn right side out. Sandwich lining between doilies and topstitch through all layers (lining included), leaving an opening at the top. From a runner, cut a wide handle, folding it lengthwise in thirds. Machine-stitch down its length. At the lining's opening, turn under the raw edges; stitch the ends of the handle inside.

M&J has a wide selection of lace that would work perfectly for this design. Instructions here.

8. Ribbon Shoes

Expert crafter Melissa Neufeld uses beautiful fabric ribbons to give everyday shoes a quick, colorful makeover. Using bright tafetta ribbon and a hot-glue gun, Melissa needed just 10 minutes to give a pair of suede slip-ons this stylish new look.

Spruce up a pair of shoes with Mom’s favorite color or pattern by adding ribbon, here are a couple different ways it can be done.

9. Lace Earrings

Three-DIY-Lace-Earrings

These delicate lace earrings will never go out of style and are super easy to make!

10. Rhinestone Jewelry Box

If your making any of the jewelry shown above, Mom might need a place to store it. Make her a rhinestone jewelry box to add a little sparkle to her room. M&J offers a wide variety of rhinestones so you can make this in Mom’s favorite color. This DIY is super easy, just get a wooden jewelry box from your local craft store and make it as simple or detailed as you want.

11. Box of Flowers

This is a beautiful gift for Mom to show her just how much you care. See how to make it here.

12. Fun Animal Cookie Throw Pillow

DIY Circus Animal Cookie Pillows | studiodiy.com

Add some fun to your home decor for Mothers Day with these cute frosted animal cracker pillows.  Find all your pompoms at M&J Trimming

13. Photo Pendent

Keep yourself close to mom’s heart with these photo pendents.

14. Pompom Branches

This craft is perfect for kids and it is super simple to do. These branches also goes great with our PomPom flowers we featured earlier on the blog.

15. Button Monogram

button canvas wall art

Buttons are being used in home decor all over the place. Help mom jump on this trend with her very own monogrammed initial. Get the full instruction here.

DIY: Floral Patched Bag

Fashion week told us one thing: florals aren’t going anywhere this season! We’ve got you covered! We’ve broke down this DIY floral patched, rhinestoned bag just for you! Check out our easy steps below to be ahead of the trend!

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What you’ll need:

Black Bag (Fabric works best)

Rose Patch

Floral Bunch Patch

1 yard floral jacquard trim

2 colors of rhinestones

Gem-Tac

Iron

Needle/ thread

Scissors

Tweezers

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Step 1: Place patches as desired on bag. Carefully, press hot iron over patches and hold for 20 seconds. Repeat if necessary. Be careful of the metal zipper!

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Step 2: Remove strap from bag. Using scissors, cut strap and remove from the buckle. Cut floral trim to desired length.

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Step 3:  Weave floral trim through metal buckle. Fold the end and sew it together.

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Step 4: Apply thin layer of gem-tac to floral patch. With tweezers, place rhinestones over desired area. Allow time to dry!

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And you’re done! Sport the latest trend this spring without breaking the bank.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DIY: Customized Cufflinks

Show your significant other how much you care with these amazing customized rhinestone cufflinks! Check out the steps:

PINK RHINESTONE CUFFLINKS 

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What you’ll need:

Cufflinks

Gem-tac Glue

Rhinestone Glue-On Kit

Pink Rhinestones (Or any color of your choice)

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Step 1: Apply a thin layer of Gem-tac to cufflinks.

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Step 2: Using the Glue-On Kit, apply rhinestones working your way from the outside-in with the wooden applicator.

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Step 3: Allow it to dry!

RHINESTONE BUTTON CUFFLINKS

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What you’ll need: 

Silver cufflinks

Cutting Pliers

Rhinestone Glue-On Kit

2 Rhinestone Buttons

Hot Glue Gun

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Step 1: Using plyers, remove the link in back of rhinestone button.

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Step 2: Apply thin layer of hot glue to cufflink.

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Step 3: Add button to cufflink and apply pressure.

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Step 4: Allow time to dry.

DIY: HALLOWEEN TREAT BAG

The best part of halloween is definitely the candy! So why not dress up your treat bag in its own little costume? We’ve put together two simple DIY tutorials for fun treat bags that you can fill with all the sweets you can get.

BAT SILHOUETTE BAG

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What you’ll need:

A tote bag

White Felt

Bat Iron-on Patches

Scissors

Fabric Glue

dsc_06721. Trace a circle on the felt to make the shape of the moon. Make sure it’s proportionate to the bag and the patches.

dsc_06772. Cut the circle out and using the fabric glue, glue it onto the bag.

dsc_06783. Place patches as shown.

dsc_06794. Iron the patches on high heat for 20 seconds each. Repeat if necessary.

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And you’re done!

FRANKENSTEIN BAG

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What you’ll need:

A tote bag

Felt – Green and White

Two black buttons in different sizes

Vinyl trim

Scissors

Fabric Glue 

dsc_06841. Draw a zig zag line on the long side of the felt sheet.

dsc_06882. Cut the felt along the line. Using the fabric glue, glue it onto the bag.

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3. Cut two differently sized circles from the white felt for the eyes. Make them larger than the buttons.

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4. Glue the two circles onto the felt.

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5. Glue the buttons onto the white felt, placing them closer to the bottom of the circle.

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6. Cut a strip of vinyl trim to make the unibrow.

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7. Cut vinyl trim into thin strips for the scar details.

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8. Cut a curved mouth shape and glue all the details onto the bag.

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Trick or Treat?

DIY: Embellished Lace Zipper Necklace

This week’s DIY is quite a stunner! As we head into cooler weather, it’s up to our outfits to keep us bold, bright and warm. Well we have a few of those bases covered with this statement necklace that we created using a zipper and some glamorous metallic trim. This statement necklace would look great over a little black dress, and if you’re really crafty, you can use it in place of a typical zipper for your next sewing project.M&J Trimming: Zipper Necklace Materials

1 1/2” (38 MM) Metallic Lace

7/8″ Multi-Beaded Trim

18″ Heavy Separating Jacket Zipper 

Sobo Glue

Scissors

Needle and Thread

M&J Trimming: Measuring Length of Lace1. Measure how much lace and beaded trim you will need.
M&J Trimming: Cutting Beaded Trim2. Add one inch to the desired size, and cut to that size.

M&J Trimming: Sobo Glue on Zipper3. Place glue on one side of the zipper.

M&J Trimming: Gluing Lace onto Zipper4. Glue down your lace. Repeat on the opposite side and let dry.

M&J Trimming: Sewing Lace onto Zipper5. Sew the lace into place for extra security.

M&J Trimming: Gluing Back of Zipper6. Flip the zipper over and place glue on the other side.

M&J Trimming: Gluing Beaded Trim to Zipper7. Add beaded trim to glue. Repeat on the opposite side and let dry.

M&J Trimming: Sewing Beaded Trim on Zipper8. Sew the trim into place for extra security.

M&J Trimming: Gluing Folded Lace9. Add glue to the end pieces of lace, and fold them over so you don’t have any raw edges. This will help to prevent fraying.

M&J Trimming: Zipper and Lace Metallic Statement Necklace DIY