Sunday, April 26, 2015

Other Hobbies of Mine

I would like to take a moment and highlight a few other hobbies I have besides tearing apart clothes. A few years ago my grandmother gave me a container of embroidery thread that she had not used for a very long time.

I began creating bracelets and necklaces of all kinds. While looking on Pinterest for new ideas, I came across the idea to wrap headphones in embroidery thread as a tangle-free solution.

I instantly loved the idea and began looking for more examples. I found pins that linked to Etsy pages. They were selling them for $28-32.

A light bulb went off in my head. I thought if I could make these and sell these in my free time, I could use the money to pay off the principle on my student loans while still in collage.

For a little over a year now I have been wrapping headphones for friends here and there. Through the help of scholarship money I have been able to purchase bulk headphones and embroidery thread.

Once I have enough inventory I will be creating my own Etsy page selling “Twisted Tunes.” Be sure to come back and check out my page.



Photo credit: Brista Robinson

Friday, April 24, 2015

Topeka Garage Sales

I have had some request on where I like to garage sale around the Topeka area.

I don't particularly have a favorite neighborhood, but there are a few I tend to drive around the most. The map below outlines each neighborhood: Greater Auburndale, Hummer Sports Park, Gage Boulevard, McAlister Parkway, Westboro, West Topeka, and Central Topeka. 



I like these neighborhoods because the people in them know how to price their unwanted crap - becuase they understand that's what it is.

I've been to some "wealthier" neighborhoods and have decided that they price their items too high. Don't get me wrong, they set out nice items, but I don't want to pay $5 for a child's used sippy cup.

The folks in the neighborhoods outlined above tend to be willing to haggle on the price a little more. I always walk away feeling like I got a great deal!

What are your favorite neighborhoods to garage sale in?

Friday, April 17, 2015

DIY Clothing Swap


There are so many ways in which you can reduce, reuse and recycle your closet. One of my favorite ways it to host a clothing swap. What's a clothing swap? It's a chance to clear out your closet of items you no longer wear or want and trade them for new items donated by fellow swapper. For more details I have included a podcast with ideas on hosting and tips for a successful party.




Friday, April 10, 2015

DIY Nautical T-Shirt Headband

Here's another headband that looks difficult but really isn't. I have looked for several different tutorials on how to make a nautical knot headband and always got confused by how to actually get the knot right.



In just under 30 minutes, you can make this headband and be ready to head out the door! Below I have created easy to follow, step-by-step instructions for you to create your own.

Let me know what you think!

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This one can be a bit tricky, so let me know if you have any questions.


Photo credit: Brista Robinson

Saturday, April 4, 2015

DIY Beach Bag

Warmer weather is here and summer will soon follow! Here is a super cute t-shirt bag that you wont have to worry about putting a wet beach towel in.

I used an adult male size medium shirt to make this one. It has enough room for at least two towels and all of my other pool amenities. 


Now, this bag does take a little extra patients to construct, but it is still super easy to make. Below are step by step, easy to follow instructions so that you can make your own. 


Let me know what you think or if you have any questions!



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Photo credit: Brista Robinson

Friday, March 27, 2015

DIY Crop Top

I was looking back the other day and realized that I hadn't made any real clothes yet. Here's a DIY top that is easy as 1-2-3! I love this one because it is so easy to do, plus it works for just about any shirt. 

This is the perfect project for garage sale finds. I love looking for guys shirts with fun patterns! Let me know what you think!!



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Photo credits: Brista Robinson

Monday, March 23, 2015

It's Not All About Clothes

Not everything your recycle has to be clothes. There are tons of items in your closet that you could put to good use. 

Take this candle stick for instance. It makes a great holder for my straightener and curling iron!

I haven't used it in years because I hate picking off was after the candle melts. I love the way it looks though, so I haven't gotten rid of it. 

After doing some spring cleaning this weekend
 I decided to bring it back out and just use candles that were in jars.

My boyfriend gets credit for re-purposing it as a holder for my straightener and curling iron though.

If he didn’t have to use the bathroom while I was doing my hair I would never have thought of using the candle stick instead.

I have a small bathroom and a pedestal sink with no counter space to speak of so I just put my straightener or whatever on the toilet, but not anymore.





Photo credit: Brista Robinson