30th December 2012
I can’t find the words to say how amazing 2012 has been, so I thought instead I would share with you my favourite projects. I’ve always been better at expressing my feelings through DIY anyway, so what better way to reflect on the year than to take a walk down the crafty memory lane that is ap&as? Although I love each and every one of the projects that ends up on this blog (a few don’t make the cut you’ll be happy to know), the ones below have become staples in my wardrobe, pieces I can’t live without and plan on making multiples of in 2013. And when it comes down to it, it’s honestly you guys I have to thank for reading and encouraging my daily DIY efforts – you’ve helped me improve my skills and been a never ending source of inspiration, so thank you. Here’s to an amazing and DIY filled 2013!
I’m currently busy planning so many things for next year and must ask, is there anything you want to see more of in 2013? Sewing? Accessories? Techniques? Outfits? Fire away!
20th November 2012
The holiday season is in full swing and over the next couple of weeks I’m looking forward to sharing with you loads of super fun DIY projects which will get you through the party season looking and feeling super chic. Get ready for sequins, rhinestones, paillettes and so much holiday sparkle! First up? A necklace fit for a party queen. Inspired by the amazing
Shourouk pieces I’ve been seeing everywhere, I had some rhinestones left over from my
embellished duffle bag and decided to make my own version. Read on to see how (you’ll be surprised how easy it is).
You need:
- Some rhinestones, I used Swarovski ones which are gorgeous
- A square of transparent PVC
- E6000 glue
- Chain
- A large clasp
- Jump rings
- Scissors
- Beading plyers
- A needle and thread
- Paper
- A pen or pencil
1. Start by drawing up the template for your necklace.
2. Cut your template out.
3. Your template should look like this, or really any shape you want.
4. Stick the template to the PVC piece and cut it out.
5. This is what it should look like.
6. Lay out your design on the table.
7. Put some glue on a piece of paper.
8. Starting at the bottom, put some glue onto the rhinestones using a skewer or toothpick.
9. Press the rhinestones onto the pvc, working your way upwards and copying the pattern on the table.
10. This is what it should look like when you are done. Let it dry overnight.
11. Once it is dry, thread your needle and then fold the top edges of the pvc over to create loops for the chain. Sew it down with one or two stitches and then glue another rhinestone over the top of the stitch to hide it.
12. Thread two pieces of chain through each plastic loop and then attach the lobster clasps to one side and close the other side of chain with a jump ring.
This is the perfect piece for a party, worn with a chic outfit of black wrap skirt, simple grey marl or cream tee and killer heels!
Wearing: DIY Necklace and A Boy Named Sue sweat shirt. (I can’t wait to show you the gorgeous holiday video I shot yesterday using this sweater!). Thanks Sam for the photos!
Next on my list of transparent projects to tackle? This amazing bag!
10th September 2012
It’s been a busy few days in New York and I can’t help but be inspired by all the truly amazing fashion I’ve seen around me. Naturally, seeing so many beautiful things makes me want to run out and buy it all, but a girl’s gotta eat right? So here are a few cheap and chic ideas for how to get the look from the street, without blowing the budget.
Ripped and painted denim shorts? Yes please!
I can totally see this bra (is it rag & bone?) being easy to make out of elastic and lycra, although probably best for those with less jugs. Just saying.
I’m so going to dress up a simple white tee using pretty fabric scraps.
Over sized chain goodness. Once again, make like this girl and DIY.
Not so easy, but a DIY lace skirt is on my radar. Stat.
Fringe + skirt = textured (and shimmy-ing) goodness.
Can’t wait to add a detachable sheer layer to my skirts!
And add chunky chain to a coloured tote.
Why just go for one embellishment? Add coins, pom poms, gold lace and ribbon to your skirt asap.
The wrap skirt is a cinch – stick around this week to see how (!).
ADR’s accessories collection for H&M is killer (so I hear), and these gold sunglasses scream painted plastic alligators glued onto a pair of simple sunnies. Yep yep.
