DIY Shopping Bag

DIY Shopping Bag - HandleFrom next year Coles and Woolworths will be phasing out plastic bags in Queensland. It’s been a long time coming but I’m glad it’s finally here.

Now, I just need to remember to pack the fabric bags in the car before each shop.

And to stock up on said fabric bags. I have them. A lot of them. But they seem to tear and break frequently. Perhaps it’s because I over-stuff them with toys, swimming gear, soccer balls and library books.

So I thought I’d whip a few bags to replace the torn ones. They also look just a wee bit nicer.

Here’s how to make your own DIY shopping bag.

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How to make a turban headband

You know those fabulous women who can wrap a scarf around their head and look all kinds of chic? I am not one of them. But I can cheat. This fabulous turban headband gives the same kind of look. It’s a quick sew project that gets a bit addictive.

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How to make a sandy, Easter bunny

Easter is around the corner and along with it ALL THE CHOCOLATE. We are trying to steer away from a pile of sugar that will last well into July. So a cute alternative is making Easter-ey gifts without all the tin foil.

This little sand bunny is easy and fun to make. The squashy sand means that the kids can play with the shape of it. You could even make a large one to act as a door stop. Nothing like a useful bunny.  Read more

Whirlpool Crisp N’ Grill Microwave Review and Recipe

This post was made possible by the kind gift of a Whirlpool Crisp N’ Grill Microwave to test and review.

Whirlpool Crisp and Grill Review and Spanakopita recipe

We are into week five of my new working arrangements and it’s all going swimmingly. I relish the two days with my littlest and I look forward to the three days in the office. I really look forward to weekends which are no longer dedicated to catch-up consulting work. Although, at least of part of Sunday is dedicated to cooking and baking. Out of necessity, I have become a meal-planning, lunch-box prepping mum. Thankfully my organised side is relishing it. Our desperately-in-need-of-a-service oven is not.

In a kismet moment, I was offered a Whirlpool Crisp N’ Grill Microwave to test and review. This speedy-oven-in-disguise microwave has graced our kitchen at just the right time.  Read more

Where to find sewing patterns

Where to find patterns

One of the things I love to do with my spare time (the little I have) is to sew. It’s such a lovely thing to take fabric and a pattern and create something beautiful. For those who’d like to try sewing, or are looking to get back into it, finding the right patterns is key.

So where do you find the best patterns?

The traditional place to buy patterns is a fabric store. They have pattern books on display where you choose your ideal look. Then you locate your code and size in cute, old-fashioned filing cabinets. I have fond memories of selecting my grade seven graduation dress just before we bought ALL the taffeta. But that filing cabinet is not the only place to look.

Here are few that you may not have tried …

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DIY Droppies for Christmas – See & Sew

DIY Dropped Crotch Pants

I have made the whole family Christmas shorts. I’m pretty sure we are going to look ridiculous Christmas Day but it’ll make some awesome Instagram and Facebook posts. Sorry in advance for the spam.

I made myself some very comfy DIY droppie PJ pants and I thought you might like to make some too. Read more