Folder Holder and 'How to make a bow'

I made this to go on my desk to hold some of my uni bits, because, organisation is the answer, and I'm not good at organisation...so I find injecting a bit of pretty into something you're not good at always helps!

Heres how I did it;

Mark a line along the edge of a washing powder or cereal box. Then from this line up to each opposite top corner.

Before cutting using a craft knife.

Then paint the whole thing with a nice thick acrylic - obviously I felt bad painting over Snap, Crackle and Pop's excited little faces, but I quickly got over it.

Cut out a short length and a long length of material, I used the very scientific method of placing the edge I wanted to cover against the material and drawing round it! Always iron it first and stick on using good old craft mount.

Now for the bow attachment;

Take a piece of the same material, I didn't measure it but it was probably about 30cm by 40cm for those that need specifics - this doesn't really matter though as it can be any size you like. Iron it out.

fold inwards, like doors. Lengthways first...and iron again.

Then fold the short ends in. Iron.

Turn the fabric over and fold like this; make sure it goes so that there's an up fold at the centre and down folds at the top and bottom of the bow, I used a kirby grip to hold these folds in place.

Wind some white cotton round and knot before removing the kirby.

To make the centre strut just take a small strip of the same fabric and fold in lengthways and (yes, you've guessed it.) Iron...I'm sure this is this most ironing I've done in years!Wrap it round and make a few stitches before cutting away the excess and sewing round the exposed edge (don't worry you won't see this bit.)
Et voila...

To attach it to your folder holder use a hot glue gun or some strong glue. You could also use these bows to attach to hair clips or Alice bands if you want to use them to jazz up something a bit dull or give it a new lease of life.

Dutty Rock - I promise It's got nothing to do with Sean Paul

Just wanted to share, I found the coolest little shop the other day. It's called Dutty, they had some really funky clothes and accessories all designed by local designers. The way it works is basically on a sell or return basis. If you're in the Bristol area (it's in Stokes Croft opposite Jesters comedy club) it's a really worthwhile thing to do - if you're creatively minded and can turn your hand to a craft or two! I'm seriously considering it myself. Obviously you have to be good and show an example of your work - so that's if they accept me! Then, if they like your stuff they ask to start with an initial ten pieces as a trial. I love how they emphasize on reuse and recycle, so I'm off down to CLIC for more ugly granny shirt fabric!

Anyway, on to my finds! I bought some sweet little hair clips with buttons on and a really gorgeous floral shirt-dress which I was informed was designed by one of their youngest designers.

Even if you don't fancy making anything for them - it's very reasonably priced and you can almost certainly pick up a unique one-off item of clothing or jewellery to make you stand out on the high street.


Oh yeah, and of course, they're on facebook - check it out!


Alice

x

Oooooh Love to Laminate baby

Okay, I totally admit it, I'm ADDICTED to laminating. I work in childcare, so yes its a useful addiction to have but an addiction all the same. I bought my laminator quite cheaply about 6 months ago and its been really useful, I have actually used it A LOT.

So anyway, my point, if you're forgetful and unorganised as I am (and I believe all you artistic minded people are) why not make yourself a wipe-clean message board! I literally just cut out lettering from my junk mail and rubbish (only felt a teeny bit like a stalker) stuck it onto plain A4 and laminated it. Hey presto!



I made one for my room at work ;





Loved it so much I made one for home too!







Seriously they're great - and I'm not just trying to find stuff to laminate...and did you know, you have to be over 17 to buy a laminator? Yes I got ID'ed - oh the shame.




Be inspired,

Alice