Decoupage vintage box miniature

There are some people who seem to have everything. When it comes to buying gifts, these people really leave me stumped for ideas. I tend to usually go for something handmade in the end as it then becomes a little special no matter what it is. My most recent handmade gift was made last night for my husband’s Aunt. When you’re really busy it’s not always easy to keep track of those handy little things you need from time to time, those miscellaneous little items. She is a professional lady and leads a really busy family life too so I wanted to make a cute, stylish little place for all those loose items to go. Somewhere as a ‘go to’ place to help save time when looking for something in a rush, as most of us multitaskers often do.

 

I started with a plain card box which I found in my local craft shop. The box is in the style of a book. I découpaged it with a ‘book style’ découpage paper. I wanted to experiment with spray paint to give a smooth finish. So I chose a vintage wooden shape to spray over.

(All images in this post by Lilypaddays)

I am pleased with the look of the keepsake. The spray black Matt spray paint was really great to use and I will definitely utilise it more. However it is easy to over do, so I would always advise it to be done outside the house and sprayed from a distance. Another coat can be applied if necessary.

She was pleased with the keepsake box and it will fit in really well with her bookcase.

The Leopard at my mums!

This little guy…

(Image by Lilypaddays)

Don’t be deceived by this cute little kitten. He may look small and cuddly but underneath that furry facade lies a beast! My brothers new little bundle of joy, bengal kitten, has so far;
Shredded lamps, all the toilet roll in their house, learnt how to open doors using the handle, learnt how to use the remote and left all humans shuddering behind the sofa.

(Image by Danny Kermit Maycraft)

He will also open the bathroom door and will jump in the shower with you, open the bathroom door and stand there until you flush the toilet for him?! He will try to climb into the toilet and then moan for you to help him out.

So so glad I moved out!!!

Wedding DIY

Contrary to what most people will tell you, I believe weddings can be as cheap or as expensive as you make them. Budget weddings don’t always have to be a huge compromise. Here are a few tips which I found useful when planning my wedding.

1. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Friends and family between them have so many skills and hidden talents. Do not let these go unnoticed! Most will consider it a privilege to be a part of your big day in some way. We asked a few of our friends to play and sing at our wedding, as a present they did so for free. My mum is a hairdresser, this is always useful, but moreso on your wedding day. We also had friends and family dress the venue and church and my husband made the invites. If you do find you have a small budget make use of all those special talents and skills.

2. Get crafty.

Pinterest is such a great place to start your inspiration journey. There are so many ideas for invites, seating plans, table names etc. Whatever your theme there will be such a great way for you to create the atmosphere you want and it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Why not get crafting and do it yourself.

We used a mirror that we already had in our lounge to create a vintage looking seating plan. We also made our own invites. Whilst this can be really time consuming, it may save a lot of money!

3. The dress.

We all have the shiny glittering image of that perfect dream dress that will wow our groom and guests. However that dream dress isn’t always the perfect price for us. Still, you don’t have to compromise on this.

(Photo by CTImages)

I really love lace and backless dresses with detail around the back and neckline. The dresses which I loved were out of my price range so I decided to design my own add on piece. I found a seamstress and told her what I wanted and luckily she got it just how I wanted. The picture above is my finished dress with the Lacey top added on, it was detachable too for the evening. This meant that I had the look I wanted at the price I wanted.

 

 

The calming effects of jewellery making

Nothing helps me keep my cool like a little bit of creating, whether it be paper craft a little creative DIY or even jewellery making. Like most women  I often feel unproductive if I relax and find it difficult to be calm and cool without feeling like I should be doing something. After such a busy day at work I really need a bit of ‘chill’ time.

These cute pearl/silver earrings were last night’s product. I love simple colours and round shapes. I find these are most wearable.

(All images in this post by Lilypaddays)

I also got these stylish little cork bottles for keeping those loose beads in. They are tidy, organised and stylish too! I’m really happy with this buy.
What helps you to relax?

Shabby chic up-cycled mirror

(All images in this post by Lilypaddays)

This piece is my favourite item! My husband found an old scratched mirror in his grandad’s garage. He took it to the shed and  re-painted it with a beautiful off white chalk paint. This was one of his first Christmas presents to me and I love it! I love that it’s unique and has a touch something personal about it.

What’s your favourite bedroom/house piece?