a pair & a spare

LAST MINUTE DIY MOTHERS DAY GIFTS

11th May 2013

Left it to the last minute and busy running around look for something to give your mother to show her how much you appreciate the miracle (aka 10 hour labour) of your birth? Why not make something for her instead – these simple projects require very few supplies and can be made in just a few hours. Crafternoon anyone?

Collect some plates from your local second hand store and make her a porcelain jewelry stand. Use a nice oil to make her a Diptyque inspired candle, without the price tag! Hint: if you don’t have the wax beads, melt a few simple candle sticks instead. Or repot a succulent into pretty pot,because unlike your friends, your mother has proven she can raise a living thing, so chances of longevity are pretty good with this gift. And finally, top it off with a pretty hand lettered card – this is probably the part your old lady will cherish the most!

DIY CHAIN EARRINGS

9th May 2013

Ever since Celine introduced me to their oversized version of the ID necklace, I’ve been drawn to flat, heavy looking curb chain. Naturally my first thought was to wear it around my neck, and then I decided that my ears were as perfect place as any to adorn with a bit of chain action. I whipped up these simple chain earring in the space of a few hours and thought I would share them with you – I like how the finished product add a touch of luxe grunge look to a simple outfit.

You need:

Two small pieces of light curb chain
Flat fronted stud earring fixtures
Earrings backs
Beading plyers
Cutting plyers or very sharp scissors (optional)
E6000 glue
A skewer

1. First check how the earring fixture is going to sit on the chain, if you need to, use some chain cutters or very shape scissors to trim the back so it is less round and will lie flat again the chain without being too obvious from the front side.

2. Put a dollop of glue on a folded up piece of paper.

3. Add some glue to the earring front.

4. Press the fixture onto one of the top edges of the chain, making sure to place it in a way that the chain will hang down straight once the earrings are on.

5. Leave to dry overnight.

Ta da! I’ve worn these twice all night and haven’t had any trouble with them, look for light chain if you are worried about weight on the glue.

Photographs thanks by the lovely Lauren Engel – we’ve got some fun collabs planned for you!

In My DIY Inspiration Chain, Tools

DIY INSPO: SUMMER CROP TOPS

8th May 2013

If you’re only just starting out with DIY and wondering where to begin, my answer is: scissors. They’re the easiest thing to get hold of (literally) and nothing’s more straightforward than cutting into a secondhand piece of clothing – just make sure to cut straight! And with high summer just around the corner, what better time to give the humble tee a makeover? Namely a crop chopping – I’ll be wearing mine with high waisted denim shorts (thus taking the public’s eyes off my abs – or lack thereof) and gladiator flats, what will you be wearing yours with?