Dearly Departed Huggable Keepsake Pillow

10422086_825660567472891_5972936951547561527_nThe inevitable always happens and it is one of life’s most devastating and depressing things we must go through. I found this pillow idea made from a shirt that the receivers father wore when he was alive. The patch was made by embroidering by a local sewing shop for not very much. The pillow would be easy to do by turning the shirt inside out sewing a square (sew just three sides) that ends between the collar, start of the sleeves and the bottom. Trim excess off. I would consider triple stitching it to ensure durability – it probably will get a lot of use. To stuff use stuffing bought by the bag or size the square to an old pillow to re-purpose. The shirt shown would need the bottom seam sewed down. I would leave the pockets useable so little keepsakes could be added to make the pillow feel even more like being close to the departed one. The patch would then need to be sewn on. Carefully hand stitch the remaining side after turning shirt right side out.

Happy New Year Inspired Pillow

e4b48b5cd1d75d85ee66b919279d5a3eThis pillow will be the centerpiece of more than just one conversation. It can be made with basic sewing skills.

Old Jars Made New

canister storage jar lid recycle upcycle mayonaise jar paint lid

Use empty mayonnaise and pickle jars to store spices in the kitchen or crafts. Clean jars completely and dry. Attach wooden drawer pull (hardware stores have these for about 50 cents) with E6000 and let dry. You can also add a screw from the inside of the lid into the drawer pull for a secure lid. Spray paint the lid/drawer pull with a color of your choice and let dry. You might want two coats on here to give a nice covering. Spray or brush a clear coat of polyurethane to make sure the paint does not get scratched off.

Recycle Baby Food Jars Into Storage Containers

baby food jar chalk board paint herb seasonings store repurpose upcycle recycleWhen you use contents of baby food jar clean completely and dry. Paint the lids with two layers of chalkboard paint. Now you can use a top drawer and have your spices more easily available to you. Don’t stop at spices – what about all of your findings, sewing notions etc.? Would be great for your excess office supplies too like paper clips, rubber bands, staples.

How To – Wooden Branch Buttons

How To – Wooden Branch Buttons

Here find a great link that will teach you the basics of making wooden buttons.