HOT New Craft Trend: Weaving and Tapestries

August 3, 2015 by FaveCrafts 6 Comments

I know. It is hard to imagine loom weaving as the latest craft trend, but as you guys are doing more and more DIY Bohemian decor, weaving crafts fit right in. Rainbow Loom Bracelets are a cousin of good old fashioned weaving, but looms can be as small as hand-held or as big as tapestries. You can make some rustic wall decor with weaving and creating a tapestry. Tapestry? You may think that that form of art has long died out since the Middle Ages, but they are making a comeback into the modern age.

HOT New Craft Trend: Weaving and Tapestries

So what exactly are tapestries? In the Middle Ages, their main purpose was to insulate large stone castles and protect the insides from dampness. Since they required large looms and many workers to make them to cover expansive wall areas, they quickly grew to be a symbol of wealth and power to be able to commission these wall decorations to be made. Kings would take them on their travels for prestigious status and for comfort in their depictions of their favorite stories or past times for thought and reflection. Pictures of victory battles were commissioned after wars starting in the late 1500’s (source). Until the 18th century, they were completely made by hand and dyed from plants and insects until the first automatic loom was made by Jacques de Vaucanson which made the tapestries far more sophisticated in pattern (source). Today, tapestries are rarely hand woven. Although the manual labor of hand-weaving has been taken over by machines and an automatic press, the amount of time has been reduced, but they are nonetheless still an intricate piece of artwork (source).

I promise I won’t be making you build a huge loom and start juicing pomegranates to make your own DIY wall decor. This is the 21st century after all! No, I will just make you buy the dye instead of juicing fruits and insects, but you still have to make a huge loom…totally kidding. Loom projects may seem super scary just by the history alone, but we still craft even with Martha Stuart in business, don’t we? This is a trade and a skill that you can take with you for the rest of your life. Small weaving projects are a great place to start. You may love this so much that you may want to go big and create your own tapestries.

Here are a few projects to get you started!

DIY Make A Weaving Loom from Super Super HQ

Woven Chair Back

How To Weave Without Special Equipment

Make Your Own Loom from Emily Franceschini

Woven Circle DIY Mat from A Beautiful Mess

Weaving With Wool Roving from A Beautiful Mess

Weaving Lopped Rya from Hello Hydrangea

Do you think tapestries and hand-weaving are going to die out with technology taking over?

10 Sorority Gift Ideas for Your Little and Fun DIY Gifts

July 25, 2015 by FaveCrafts Leave a Comment

So there are a million and one sorority gift ideas on Pinterest and Instagram, but there are the basics that every Little needs to start out with. If you’re a Big who wants to show your Little the ropes, you know how much you wanted to show your letters in every aspect of your life when you first accepted your bid. You probably went straight to Etsy to buy Greek apparel (I did it too). But quickly, you realized how over-priced Greek apparel and sorority trinkets are. You’ve learned, and you surely don’t want your Little to make the same mistake. Your job is to help your Little and guide them on their journey through the chapter and as a member. Starting them out with easy DIY crafts is the fun part. By this point, I know most of you have already started your “Welcome Home” baskets for your Little, but these are the basic starter DIY gift baskets that every new Greek life member needs.

When I went through recruitment, it was informal, but it was the best time of my life. I used to be very much against Greek life—still slightly am, but I understand Greek life now and appreciate it for the intentions and the standards that each organization sets out for their members. I loved working with so many people with different interests and different viewpoints. I eventually dropped because of personal reasons, but the girls in my chapter are still some of my best friends.

Even if you are in a sorority or are not currently, these are some amazing gift ideas for those who are in a sorority or some very adaptable crafts. I’m sure you’re probably thinking, “Yeah right, what can I do with a paddle craft?” Actually, they are some really cute homemade wall decor. They are great for recognizing a milestone in your life. I’ve seen big/little matching ones, welcome paddles, “21st Birthday” paddle…the list can go on. Monogramming is very trendy with DIY home decor and homemade clothes. A personalized cooler is great for camping trips. These easy crafts are adaptable, you just have to think outside the box a little bit.

Crafting these cute gifts saves you so much money and it gives you the freedom to personalize it without breaking the bank. These would be really cute for graduation gift ideas and practicing monogramming. Sure, you can easily go on Etsy and find crafts already made, but is it really the same? No, it’s not. I can guarantee it because it wasn’t made by you to your little from her big. That’s what makes those baskets special. You may make them in advance, but it is for your perfect little that you find in the fall or spring recruitment.

10 Sorority Little Ideas and DIY Gifts

Monogrammed Stool

This would be super cute with your letters monogrammed on the seat with colors to match your sorority. For those not in one, your initials would be just as cute with your favorite colors.

Family Tree

Everyone, no matter if you’re in Greek life or not, loves a good family tree. This one uses wood burning, but you can easily just put one on a canvas instead.

Paint and Paper Letters

Decorating your letters in their favorite pattern gives your decor a little more personality. If you don’t want your letter, use an inspirational word!

Pin Box

Make something cute to hold their pin, or you can make this trinket box to hold small jewelry items.

Personalized Cooler

I realize this is a sports cooler, but painting this your favorite colors, letters, and your open motto would be too cute.

Sharpie Mug

This is such an easy craft. I’ve done this so many times to make a personalized gift. Coffee is a must in college!

Decorated Bulletin Board

Getting organized right off the bat is setting up for good habits in all parts of life.

from lifeovereasy.com

DIY No Sew Fleece Throw from Life Over Easy

If you don’t have a tie blanket, you’re missing out. These are so easy to make and last for forever.

from eighteen25.com

Sequined Letters from Eighteen 25

If you’re looking to add a little extra sparkle to your letter, this is an easy tutorial on how to skip the rhinestones.

from pagebypaige.com

84 Sorority Paddle Ideas by Page By Paige

The biggest collection of sorority paddle inspiration.

What else would you give to your little? If you’re not in a sorority, what do you think would be the most fun to make?

Trend Alert: Elephant Craft Projects for All Ages

January 27, 2015 by FaveCrafts 3 Comments

There’s a trend that has been popping up all over the place and it’s about time we write about it! Elephants! I’ve seen them on scarves, wall art, t-shirts, dining ware and more. We are all aware of the fox trend, the owls, and the increasingly popular hedgehog. But elephants took me by surprise – in a good way. It’s time for these gentle giants take the spotlight in design. That’s why I’ve rounded up just about every elephant themed craft project we have. You’re welcome!

Crochet Elephants

These elephants are perfect for kids and adults alike. We love that these free crochet patterns all take a slightly different approach to the elephant which makes each one unique!

Stephanie’s Elephant Square

Circus Elephant Crochet Lovey

Crochet Elephant Bookends

Darling Elephant Crochet Lovey

An Elephant No Matter How Small

Baby Elephant Crochet Hat

Gracie the Tiny Elephant

Elephants for Kids

Did you know that a baby elephant is called a calf? These free DIY projects feature the elephant in so many cute ways.

Precious Patchwork Elephants

Rainbow Loom Elephant Charm

Rainbow Sponge Painted Elephant

Cute Cardboard Elephant

Button Elephant

Sewing Patterns for Elephants

We’re totally loving these free sewing tutorials that hit the elephant trend head on. Learn how to sew a pillow featuring elephants and your living room will be so trendy!

Hand-Sewn Elephant Family

Cuddly Blanket Elephant

Elephant Purse

Elephant Applique Cushion

Safari Applique Pillows

Charlie the Elephant

Paper Elephants

These free paper crafts are perfect for those who love elephants and want to try their hand at making a little elephant.

Printable Elephant Bookmarks That Never Forget

Adorable Ephemera Elephant Card

Baby Wishes Photo Album

Origami Elephant

Knitted Elephants

These are some of the cutest elephants I have ever seen! The best part is that all of these elephants are free knitting patterns.

Flo the Elephant

Knit Floral Elephant

Elephant Lovie Blanket

Knitted Toy Elephant

What do you think of the elephant trend?

Craft Inspiration: Latest Trends in Sewing and Fabric from CHA 2014

January 19, 2014 by AllFreeSewing 2 Comments

AllFreeSewing was thrilled to explore the Craft and Hobby Association Show in Anaheim this year. With all of the new products, amazing bloggers, and eye-catching displays set up it was more than a little difficult to keep our focus. Regardless of our enthusiasm we still managed to get the scoop on what the latest trends are for sewing and fabric.

So, what’s on the radar for all things crafty? We saw a lot of attention this year towards time-saving products and fine materials. Color will also have a huge presence in your 2014 projects, so get ready for something fabulous. Products from Simplicity, Green Sneakers, Crystal Ninja, Camelot Fabrics, and more reminded us that new crafting techniques are always available.

Ribbon Reigns

Ribbons are all the rage this year. At the May Arts Ribbon booth tons of ribbons flaunted various colors and designs. Of course these notions can be used on any kind of craft, but as hems and embellishments they’re perfect.

We even came across The Ribbon Print Company’s amazing custom printing machine. With this innovation you can print your own personal ribbons for your business or personal crafts. The software allows for printing more than just letters.

Color Statements

In Plushi

AllFreeSewing editors noticed no shortage of color at CHA. Starting with the 100% wool fruits and veggies at the Barefoot Fibers stand, we saw bursts of color everywhere.

Therm-O-Web provided astounding shocks of color in their designer displays. Whether in the form of an owl or plush sewing machine, color was everywhere you looked.

Clothing That Counts

If you’re going to put the time into sewing your own wardrobe, make sure the fabric matches your efforts. Bright and bold looks kept catching our attention. These projects weren’t just for the kids. Besides Barefoot Fabric’s cute coats and The McCall Company’s darling dresses, we saw color creeping into adultware too.

The McCall Pattern Company wowed us with their designs. As a giant in the sewing community we knew they’d have fabulous finds, but our jaws dropped when this Vogue Badgley Mischka glittered under the CHA lights. If you’re on the lookout for patterns that can handle bolds, go for classic designs that will flatter your figure.

Innovation Without the Headache

Seriously one of the coolest innovations at CHA was Ann Butler’s line of stamps. If you don’t have the time or money to devote to an entire quilt, you can simply stamp your art to give the effect of a quilt! After it’s pressed this ink doesn’t wash away!

What has the sewing and paper crafters excited is Brother’s new Scan n’ Cut machine. Instead of struggling with fussy cutting you can indulge in your favorite shapes and delicate letters without picking up a pair of scissors or a razor blade.

At Clover we fawned over this new Iron Safe. The materials for your projects can now be protected with this simple guard.

We had so much fun exploring everything new to the crafting community. A BIG thanks to all of the lovely companies and bloggers for their time during the show. We’re already counting down for next year!

Spring Forward 2014: 12 Spring Fashion Patterns featuring Peplum

January 4, 2014 by AllFreeSewing 1 Comment

Peplum is a popular trend that resurfaced a few years ago. Even though it isn’t exactly “new,” it still manages to top the trend reports season after season. The best thing about peplum is that it’s very versatile; you can have peplum tops and tanks, peplum skirts, and even peplum dresses. If you’re so inclined, you can even find peplum-style jackets and coats! The reason for its popularity is that it’s a style that can look good on anyone! The peplum flare can be more or less structured, so depending on how much extra flare you want to add to your silhouette, you can find something that fits. Because of its versatility and flattering fit, we at AllFreeSewing dub Peplum as the top trend of 2014.

Peplum can be tough to pull off, true, but only if you don’t know how to make it work for you. If you want to give yourself an exaggerated silhouette and hips, a more structured and more flared cut is your best bet. If you don’t want that extra fabric jutting out, you can still rock the trend. There’s a gathered peplum cut that doesn’t flare as much and simply flows around your midsection. If you’re hesitant to try the trend, go for that style. Once you’re a little more comfortable, you can venture out into the more extravagant pieces.

There’s no better time than right now to jump on board the peplum trend. Whether you already have a few pieces or you’ve been waiting for the right time to try it out, there are plenty of ways to sew your own version. We’ve pulled some of our favorite patterns and tutorials for you to try, so check them out!

Peplum Tops

We’re also so thrilled that we’ve stumbled across some amazing peplum top tutorials online:

Peplum Dresses and Skirts

Origami Peplum Refashion from Life is Beautiful!
Ruffled Peplum Skirt
Snap Peplum Skirt from Tasha Delrae
Side Peplum Skirt from A Pair & a Spare

Plus! Peplum Belt Tutorial!

This great DIY Peplum Belt is from the lovely Natalia Oh!

What do you think of the peplum trend?

Trendy Quilted Gifts for Tech Geeks

July 31, 2013 by FaveQuilts 1 Comment

Although there are quilt designs called Grandma’s Garden Flowers and Log Cabin Blocks, quilting is anything but outdated. Actually, I’ve found that quilting and technology go hand in hand. Not only is there a diverse collection of free quilt patterns and quilting tutorials on sites like FaveQuilts, there is also a growing interest in small handmade gift patterns for tech accessories.

You can choose to create a graduation gift for a college student with a laptop, a birthday gift for a dad that likes to read his Kindle on the train, or a quilted Christmas present for a photographer who wants a DIY camera strap. You are guaranteed to find a fantastic free quilted gift pattern for every tech geek on your list.

Camera Accessory Quilt Gift

Whether they are a photographer for National Geographic or a new parent who loves snapping pictures of their baby, anyone with a camera will love a personalized camera strap. I’ve noticed that avid photographers always need to keep their cameras close to them; which is why a Quilted Camera Strap Cover is such a fashionable idea for anyone in need of a DIY camera strap. Need a quilted gift design for someone who goes on a lot of fun family trips? This Digital Camera Case is an easy quilted gift pattern that does an excellent job of protecting a camera on the go. For an even quicker pattern for a personalized camera case, check out a contemporary Quilted Camera Case that would be a perfect quilted gift for a teenager.

Laptop and iPad Case Quilt Gifts

Nowadays, every college and high school student has a laptop. Any young adult is sure to appreciate your talent when you make them a cool laptop or iPad case quilt gift. Your daughter or granddaughter will be the chicest girl on campus when you quilt her this Vintage-Looking Laptop Case to carry her computer between lecture halls. For college-aged guys, check out an ironic pattern for a Retro iPad Case DIY that actually looks like a vintage transistor radio. Last but not least, make a DIY laptop case for dear old dad or a beloved husband with this Manly Man Laptop Case.

eReader Cover Quilt Gifts

One of the greatest features about gadgets like ereaders is that they help save trees by putting news articles and books online. I especially love this idea for the Love of Literature Tablet Cover because it protects a tablet but also flaunts an appliqued vintage typewriter. You can also protect your electronic reader by making this Mexican-themed scrap quilt design for a Dia de los Muertos Kindle Sleeve. For an even quicker tutorial on constructing a Kindle or eReader cover, check out this pattern for a Last Minute Gift Kindle Cover.

The free quilted gift patterns for new technologies don’t stop there. Check out 23 Geeky Gifts for Nerds for even dorkier gift ideas!

Tell us, what kind of handmade quilt gift will you make YOUR tech geek?

Chevron Spotlight: 8 Trendy Jewelry Making Projects

October 4, 2012 by AllFreeJewelryMaking 1 Comment

The more dynamic cousin of the stripe, the chevron has been a popular motif in the DIY arena for quite some time now and doesn’t seem to be leaving the scene anytime soon. But that’s OK with us! From pendants to earrings to DIY jewelry organizers, we can’t get enough of the simply chic chevron motif. Easy to mimic but bold in appearance, the chevron is the ideal DIY design element, instantly turning any project from “blah” to brilliant.

These thrifty DIY earrings are actually made from basic bobby pins, but with a couple coats of nail polish in the shape of our chic pal the chevron, these hair pins are transformed into a super fashion-forward accessory! From afar, you’d never guess these statement earrings were made from common items found around the house. The bold chevrons in bright neon colors (another popular DIY trend right now) totally take this design to the next level.

If you’re looking for something a bit more subtle, this simple enamel necklace is a more sophisticated take on the chevron motif. Nail polish saves the day again in this DIY project. The double chevron and pop of color keep this necklace just interesting enough without going over the top.

Polymer clay + Mod Podge + chevrons = one super fabulous pendant design. Don’t worry, you don’t have to paint all those perfect little chevron stripes yourself. This tutorial shows you how to transfer the chevron pattern onto the clay and then seal it with Mod Podge Dimensional Magic for the look of resin jewelry.

If you’re not afraid to try something a little off-the-wall, then definitely check out this unique DIY necklace project. The chevron pattern in this design is created using penne pasta! Would you have guessed it? This thrifty necklace design has a bit of a tribal vibe that is super cool and edgy, definitely a step up from the macaroni noodle necklaces you made in preschool.

Check out these jewelry making projects for even more ways to use the super chic chevron motif in your DIY accessories:

Chevrons, stripes, polka dots – what’s your favorite fashion motif?

From Clutter to Cute: DIY Jewelry Organizers Roundup

July 12, 2012 by AllFreeJewelryMaking 6 Comments

I swear, instead of a cute little ballerina twirling to a light and whimsical tune, the Psycho “Shriek Shriek Shriek Shriek!” stabbing sound effect should play every time I open my jewelry box. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, shoelaces, last night’s leftover spaghetti, my cat’s whiskers…nothing is safe from the giant, festering knot of chain and charms that seethes within my jewelry box. But today I put my foot down! There are so many cute and easy tutorials for DIY jewelry organizers floating out there on the interweb, I no longer have any excuse for leaving my jewelry in a jumble!

These adorable jewelry hangers, displays, and organizers are as cute as they are convenient. Not only do they help keep your burgeoning jewelry collection in check, but they make awesome decorations for your bedroom! Any one of these fabulous DIY jewelry organizers would help spruce up a room and add a little functional flair to your decor.

This Driftwood Jewelry Hanger from Style & Pepper is one of my absolute favorites. Rustic yet refined, this jewelry display makes an amazing piece of wall art while keeping your necklace chains nice and tangle-free. It’s the perfect project for nature lovers. (Just make sure it’s clean and pest free and all that good stuff!)

If you’re an earring fiend, this Lacy Vintage Earring Organizer is a great organizing solution. This thrifty project is great for those “DIY on a dime” types; it takes less than $10 to make! Plus it’s a quick and easy craft you can easily whip up and have hanging on your wall in an evening.

Then for the true jewelry hoarder, we have this peg board jewelry display. If you have more jewelry than you know what to do with, this might be the solution for you. You’ll never have a problem finding that exact piece you’re looking for again, and accessorizing your outfits will be a breeze.

Now here’s a genius idea–instead of throwing all your jewelry in a drawer, why not hang the drawer on the wall? This clever Necklace and Earring Organizer is made by adding hooks and a coat of paint to a utensil organizer like you’d use in a kitchen drawer, but instead of displaying forks and spoons, you’re displaying your fabulous accessories.

If you’re looking for something a bit more discreet, this gorgeous display idea from Martha Stewart is a fun way to keep your jewelry un-cluttered but still have it out of sight. Use various “orphaned” teacups and saucers (or pick some up at flea markets and garage sales) to create an eclectic organization solution.

Trying to avoid another hole in the wall? This cheese-grater-turned-earring-holder is a fun tabletop organizing option. Add a fresh coat of aqua paint for a retro vibe (or choose whatever palette you please) and add some brass hooks for feet, and you have a kitschy little earring display that will impress your guests.

Here are some other darling DIY jewelry organizers we love!

Check out more jewelry organization solutions at AllFreeJewelryMaking.com, and turn your mess into a DIY masterpiece!

What are your best tips and tricks for keeping jewelry organized?

DIY Photo Contest from Kollabora Craft Community

June 10, 2012 by FaveCrafts 1 Comment

Hey folks! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Kollabora, a new online social platform and craft community that features the latest and greatest trends in DIY. Named from the Latin “collabora,” meaning “to work together,” this site is dedicated to bringing crafters together through DIY inspiration, supplies and how-tos. Head over to Kollabora, get your invitation, check our their Tumblr, and enter their latest contest! Keep reading for more details.

This week, Kollabora is wrapping up an exciting contest for craft enthusiasts. Today through Monday, June 11, they are giving away an exciting daily prize to crafters who upload photos of their dazzling DIY projects to Twitter and Instagram and enter the contest.

Here’s the challenge:

Upload a photo holding, wearing, or using a handmade project (it can be something you made, or something that was made for you) to Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #kollabora. Make it, Snap it, Share it and Win!

Each day from now until Monday, June 11^th, our friends at Kollabora will choose their 3 favorite photos. Those winners will receive amazing prizes from companies like Wool and the Gang, Colette Patterns, Mood Fabrics, and more! The prize for today’s contest is an Epic Letters Embroidery Kit, so check out Kollabora for more information and submit your project photos to win cool crafty prizes for your hard work.

Kollabora is the latest social platform for the contemporary crafter, and it promises to be an exceptional resource for everyone, from casual creative types to hardcore DIY dynamos. I can’t wait to see more from this awesome site, and I hope everyone takes a moment to enter the contest!

As the folks as Kollabora say, “We are what we make,” so head over to Kollabora to check out the contest and all of the exciting DIY tips, tutorials and products. Make something as incredible as you!

What crafts will you enter into the contest?

My roommate made me a cool beaded necklace, so I think I’ll get her to enter!

Until you get your invitation, don’t forget to check out the latest and greatest from FaveCrafts and more!

Step into the Designer’s Shoes with FaveCrafts Giveaway!

May 15, 2012 by FaveCrafts 5 Comments

You have the perfect outfit almost set. Your clothes look great, the jewelry looks awesome, and the only thing missing is an awesome pair of shoes. Sound familiar?

Well then you need Altered Shoes, the newest book giveaway from FaveCrafts.com! In this book, author Marty Stevens-Heebner teaches you how to revamp shoes you already own with materials you most likely already have. From worn out cowboy boots to those cute strappy sandals you got at the thrift store, this book covers all the basics…and leaves no scuff uncovered!

When it comes to designer shoes, sometimes it’s just too hard to find exactly what you’re looking for…which is why it’s so helpful to know how to craft your own. I have to say that my favorite project in Altered Shoes has to be the Paper Mosaic Flats. These shoes look like something I would buy at a department store, but are easily made from an old pair of flats and tissue paper.

The conversions from worn old shoes to high quality heels you’d be proud to show off make Altered Shoes a must have book for any DIY crafter. Even if you’re not into designing your own shoes, Altered Shoes has helpful suggestions on how to cover scuff marks, fix holes in the shoe, and even turn those ugly bridesmaid shoes into something that’s wearable again!

For shoe fans, DIY fans, and artists who love to show off their work, Altered Shoes is a great book that you’ll find yourself referencing again and again. I even learned how to remove those obvious and ugly white marks from my black shoes and they look brand new again!

This is a great book to add to your collection of crafty how-to materials and we’re giving away one copy on FaveCrafts. All you need to do is head over to the giveaway page and sign up to win this awesome book. You can register to win once a day, so return often to improve your chances of winning! Step to it!