From Melanie, Brisbane, Australia,
After reading through your tips and hints I would like to add one. The cardboard 'tins' that many ports and some spirits come in are handy for storing rolled up cloths,
as it has the added bonus of keeping the dust and insects out.
From Vivenne, Biloela, Queensland, Australia,
A rolled up piece of paper on an angle is an ideal funnel for putting poly beads into the small opening of dolls.
- A hand sewing needle has a flat and rounded side. If you have a problem threading the needle turn the needle around and thread from the other side.
- Tape or staple swatches of ribbon or fabric to index cards. This makes it easier to get extra supplies at the craft store.
- Cover cardboard rolls in acid free tissue and then wrap your ribbon around them for storage.
- Never underestimate the importance of a hot glue gun; it is an invaluable tool for all crafts.
- Heat from a blow drier causes strings of hot glue to disintegrate immediately.
- Use plastic drop cloths to cut inexpensive patterns and throw them away if you make a mistake.
- Use toothpicks to apply expensive brand name glue. You will never put too much on your project and more will stay in the bottle.
- Remember this adage: clean hands, clean project.
- When working with cardboard and glue, lightly wet the underside of the cardboard and it will dry flat.
- Use a damp q-tip to pick up small beads. They stick to the q-tip and make loading a needle much easier.
- Store delicate die cuts in folded acid free paper with the die cut facing the fold.
- Prevent paper from ripping when affixing tape by applying the tape to clothing first to reduce its stickiness.
- Lubricate craft punches before using them by punching wax paper.
- Cut StyrofoamŪ by using a serrated knife well waxed with a candle stub or paraffin.
- Clean rubber stamps after each use with a mild soap. Avoid getting any wood parts wet, and dry completely when done. Store with the rubber side down out of direct sunlight.
- Don't send non-crafters to the store to get your supplies
- Put glue sticks in the freezer to cut down on strings.
- Go to your local walpaper store and ask them for their old wallpaper books, most of the time you can get them for free. Use the small pieces of wallpaper for envelopes, gift tags, stationary, to cover cans etc.
- My spools of thread and bobbins were all over the drawer! Sooo, I glued some golf tees to the bottom, they fit perfectly .. try it!!
- If an item makes you smile, inside or out, it will fit into your home even if you don't think it will match your decor, it will!!
- Those special items that you just love and keep hidden away, BRING THEM OUT!
You should be able to appreciate them. Decorate your home using all the things you love most and you will find that 'homey' comes with them.
- Don't frown on used things from flea markets and house sales. All these items show 'history' and their worn appearance adds a touch of country charm.
No matter what pieces you have, if you love them, they belong!! If they bring back memories or put a smile on your face, use them in your decorating. A home is just what you make it! Surrounding yourself with the treasures you adore will give more comfort and charm than any decorating rules!
- When you're a left-hander trying to follow step-by-step diagrams designed for right-handers, try this ingenious trick. Prop a small mirror at left-hand side of each diagram to see your correct hand position in the reflection.
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