blah to TADA!

05 December 2016

A Wreath Re-Do

The holidays have arrived and it's time to decorate. Some people go all out with the tall tree, outdoor lights, and lawn ornaments. But if like me, you live in an apartment, it can be quite a challenge because of the lack of space.

At the very least, why not put up a wreath? It doesn't take much commitment and it brings cheer to those who dwell there and to everyone who visits.

Here's a basic wreath and door hanger that I got at the craft store. It's looking a little blah.

If you'll recall from a few years back, I turned it into TADA! by adding these salt dough ornaments. It's a candy-inspired wreath!

This year, I made a little change:

With a new ribbon, some berries and an ornament, my wreath is a little more grown-up. TADA!

28 November 2016

Craft Technique: Wood Burning

One sunny day, I went to Chinatown and I was able to buy these:

A few kitchen essentials: a pair of oven mitts, a spatula and pastry brushes. And I got all of these for less than $10! Let me show you how I turn them from blah to TADA!

I'm using this new tool in my craft arsenal. It's a burning tool that can be used for wood, leather, gourds and many other stuff.

It comes with several screw-on tips and is powered electrically. To use it, it's held like a pencil. These tips and hand pressure will determine the design. I still have to get the hang of this, though.

Instead, I'm using these hot stamps alphabet set to add an initial.

While still unplugged, I screw the letter (my choice for this project is the letter "O") on the wood burning tool. I plug it to a socket, set it on its cradle, and let it heat up for a few minutes. Then I tested it on some scrap wood, applying even pressure and holding it still for several seconds.

Once I was comfotable, I decided on which part of the spatula I wanted the initial.

I chose to brand it on the handle.

As for the pastry brush, I made the initial more prominent.

Once done, I gathered everything together with a ribbon.

I think this makes a nice hostess gift or a present for someone who just moved into a new home. TADA!

24 November 2016

Happy Thanksgiving

Let's find some time today, amidst the hustle and bustle, to be thankful for all that we have.

Happy Thanksgiving!

21 November 2016

A Wreath of Gratitude

This week, we celebrate Thanksgiving. Amidst the flurry of the food preparations and family reunions, we should not forget to stop and be grateful.

via Country Living

This craft allows us to do that and even better, it invloves participation from the entire family. TADA!

14 November 2016

A Handmade Box for Handmade Treats

The holidays are fast approaching and I can't help but think of my Christmas list.

Handmade is always a good idea, so allow me to share how this festive gift box is made.

I used this really cool tool, a scoring board for making boxes and envelopes.

I started with some cardstock, trimmed to a 7 inch by 7 inch square. I prepared two sheets, one for the lid and one for the bottom part of the box.

The scoring board comes with instructions and size guidelines depending on the size of box you need.

I used the bone folder that came with the scoring board to mark some lines. "Scoring" just means "fold lines", which makes the box easier and neater to fold.

The measurement for the lid is bigger than that of the bottom part.

When scoring is done, fold on the lines and cut four sides.

Form the boxes and glue the ends together.

And now we have a gift box. TADA!

It can be used for any kind of wrapping. But if you like to bake, it's good for Christmas cookies. It's best to line the box with parchment paper to protect both the cookies and the box.