Monday, June 18, 2012

Strawberry Picking....









My sister and I have always wanted to make our own jam. After many years of trying, we finally were able to get it together and make our own jam from the strawberries that we picked. I will admit, we wimped out and made freezer jam but it is jam nonetheless.

Photo: Strawberry picking... http://instagr.am/p/L-bxA1BuAI/

Photo: We picked too many http://instagr.am/p/L-eN0vhuBY/

Photo: Strawberries up close http://instagr.am/p/L-e5-fBuBr/

Photo: Dirty http://instagr.am/p/L-fSulhuB1/

Photo: The results http://instagr.am/p/L_fKAOhuOX/


I found some "sweet" printable jam jar labels (you can find them here).

printable jam labels preview

 I also decided to add some fabric tops using some extra material I had on hand. Ta da! Homemade Jam people!
                               Photo: Done http://instagr.am/p/L_t247huI_/
Love, Bean

Friday, June 15, 2012

Don't Be Shy....




Did you know that it is OFFICIALLY  world wide knit in public day? That's right friends, time to get out those needles! Look for Knit in Public events (or KIPS) in your community or host one yourself. What a grrrrreat idea! For more information check out: http://www.wwkipday.com/.

Love, Bean

Monday, June 11, 2012

New Friend

Picked up our new friend in Montreal this weekend (that is very far from where we live!). This sweet girl is named Ruby.

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Sewing for Lazy Gals....



Maybe it's the influence of the instant gratification based society we live in, but I like me a nice,quick sewing project that doesn't involve a lot of steps and reading of instructions. As such, anything that involves sewing in a straight line and can be completed in about an hour is right up my alley. Recently, my sister needed some curtains for her apartment, so I whipped out my trusty singer feather weight and got to work. Sewed three edges and then folded the top over to create a pocket to stick the tension rod in. Thankfully, my singer cooperated and an hour later the curtains were a hangin'. Now I'm on the hunt for some more quick and dirty sewing projects. Any ideas?


Love, Bean

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

DIY Mason Jar Candles



I am a big fan of both Mason Jars and Candles. On my rainy day off, I decided it was high time to combine these two interests and make some Mason Jar candles. Having never made my own candles before, I was a little apprehensive, especially as I am one of the world's clumsiest human beings. With visions of third degree candle wax burns dancing in my head, I started the process. I began by sticking wicks in the jars with tacky wax and securing it in place with BBQ skewers (those things can be used for anything!). I then melted the wax in a microwave safe bowl and added some fragrance ( I chose vanilla). Next, I carefully (emphasis on carefully) poured the wax into the jar using a measuring cup. I have to say, despite a few minor setbacks ( some spills and the whole why is the wax yellow dilemma ) it was both easy AND injury free. Sweet! I'm pretty pleased with the results too!





Sunday, June 3, 2012

Something Special Sunday: Crafty Ideas For A Back Yard Bash


Today's cold and rainy weather has me dreaming of the sunshine and heat awaiting us this summer (hopefully.....you better cooperate Mother N!). One of the best ways to spend these lovely, sunshiney days is a good old fashioned backyard BBQ. Here are some great ideas for adding a crafty touch to your next backyard party or BBQ. Enjoy!


Pop Can Lanterns from Dollar Store Crafts 


BBQ sign found on ETSY


Bunting found on ETSY


Terra Cotta Cloche found on Craftgawker









Love, Bean

Friday, June 1, 2012

Today's Crafty Adventure : DIY Yarn Wrapped Bracelet




     Got left over yarn that you don't know what to do with? Use your old yarn scraps to jazz up an old bracelet. Simply wrap yarn around the bracelet, ensuring the bracelet is completely covered. To change colour, tie the yarn ends together so that the knot is hidden on the inside of the bracelet and keep on wrapping! A brand new bracelet in a couple of easy peasy steps!