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

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!

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

Homemade Bubbles from the lovely blog Rust and Sunshine 

Love, Bean

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!

It's Hip To Be Square.....

Hello! We have been enjoying beautiful weather here as of late and I have been spending my time enjoying it (yay!) or working inside and missing it (boo). As such, my crafty blogging has taken a backseat. But I'm back with some crochet goodness. Thought I would share my progress and here it is. Finally, conquered the granny square. Boo yah grandma!

P.S.- Follow me on Instagram (jess_bean8)!

Fun Fridays: The Many Applications of Kool Aid (Part III)

It's finally Friday and finally time for the final installment of The Many Applications of Kool Aid Part III. We've made lipgloss, we've made some super awesome playdough and now we are going to use Kool Aid to...........dye wool!

I first found this idea on the awesomeness that is craftgawker. There are many tutorials for dyeing wool with kool aid all over the web. It's pretty basic though. First unwind a ball of wool  (I used 100 percent cotton). Next, heat a cup of water in a saucepan. Add one packet of Kool Aid in your colour of choice (I went with Cherry). Take your ball of wool and put it in the pot, rolling it around so that it absorbs the colour. Leave the wool in for about five minutes then take it out and rinse under cool water.

To create a neat effect, repeat this process using another colour of Kool Aid ( I chose purple). After rinsing, squeeze excess water out of the wool and allow to dry for two to three days. Ta da! Your very own, completely unique hand dyed wool! What can't Kool Aid do? 

Love, Bean

Crochet Love

      A beauty from elycia 

                                           Amazing afghan from better together photography



                                               My favourite from according to matt

Mother of pearl! I wish I could crochet like this! Some crochet love to brighten your Wednesday...

Love, Bean