Gifts Archives - A Red Ember

So You Better F’ing Like it

December 17, 2014 By Lauren Leave a Comment

I am sharing some snarky printable Christmas gift tags with you to add to your handmade gifts.

I am the worst at giving cards with my gifts. I always forget about that step and then end up going the folded piece of blank paper with something generic like, “Happy birthday, Love Lauren” written on it. Even better is when I have an old gift bag with someone else’s heartfelt words on it and I just scribble out their name and replace it with mine. Super personal. I just can’t validate paying $5 for a store bought card unless it is for something special or the card is majority of the gift. I bought a huge pack of blank cards awhile ago and that has been fabulous. That way I always have cards on hand for any occasion. I even bought fancy stickers so I can personalize them for birthdays, thank yous, or congratulations. I’m sure my family has noticed they have been getting the same black and white designed cards for a few years now. #sorrynotsorry

I decided to go all out this year and make my own snarky gift tags. People need to know I made their present! And that I expect them to like it, use it, or wear it. Seriously. (Sorry Mom and Dad for using inappropriate words on my gift tags)

Since I like them so much I thought I would share them all with you!

Directions for downloading free gift tags

Decide whether you would like Use it, like it, wear it, or all three! They come 9 on a page of all 3 different designs.

– Print out on white card stock

– Cut along outside edge.

– Punch a hole in the top left edge, or slip it directly into the gift.

DOWNLOAD GIFT TAGS HERE >

Like it

Wear it

Use it

Enjoy!

Christmas Wrapping Paper Basket

December 15, 2014 By Lauren 11 Comments

The wrapping paper basket I made last June has been one of my most popular projects. In fact it was even featured on Good Housekeeping earlier this month! That was a huge milestone for this little blog and has brought in a bunch of traffic. (Don’t worry, plenty of time jumping around screaming happened). When I made the basket back in June I couldn’t help but think about all the amazing Christmas wrapping paper that would be out and how perfect these baskets would be for Christmas cookies.

I am always scrambling to find something for candy or cookies. That’s why these woven baskets are so perfect!

Cody and I hosted a Christmas party this weekend that was a huge success! I have been wanting to have a bunch of friends over for awhile now and I am so glad it worked out. The friends we have made in Portland are from so many different groups. Some are old friends from UO, some are work friends, or neighbors, or even cousins. But they all don’t know each other. So this was a perfect opportunity to get everyone together! It was a blast watching everyone get along so well and make new friends.

We cooked a ham and everyone brought a side, dessert, or drink to share. We had about 15 people show up in their Christmasy attire ready to eat and drink.

I made gingerbread cookies on Saturday morning that looked super cute in the basket! Way more festive than a boring ol’ plate. I went with a more wintery theme than Christmasy theme for this basket. I wish the print was a little smaller so it would be more visible after being cut up but I still love the design. It’s so cute!

But cookies aren’t the only thing that can go in the basket! Don’t forget nuts, candy or even ornaments to make it more decorative.

To learn how to make this basket, check out my blog post from June: Wrapping Paper Basket for a full tutorial.

Beaded Ring

September 30, 2014 By Lauren 2 Comments

I made a beaded ring like this several years ago and I love it! I loved it so much I made a bunch of them and gave them to friends for Christmas along with this necklace. The bead I used is bright red with a silver inside that makes it extra shiny. It’s a fun ring to wear because it is so big and bright.

The ring I made was left in the bottom of my purse for far too long and hardly resembles a ring now. So I decided to share a tutorial with everyone as I made myself a new one.

Materials

– Thin wire – I used 20 gauge
– Pliers
– Wire cutters
– Bead of your choice
– Ring mandrel – I found this one at Michaels on clearance one time. But you can always use a highlighter or something to wrap around. You just won’t have as much control over the size.

Instructions

Cut about 12 inches of of 20 gauge silver wire.

When measuring out your size on the mandrel, go up about 1/2 size. The bead will cut down the size a bit. When selecting your bead, try to find one that is fairly flat on one side. It is going to be sitting directly on your finger so you want it to be flat.

Wrap the wire once around the mandrel as shown. Make sure your wires are not crossed in the back.

Wrap the wire around the bead keeping the wire on opposite sides.

I found that wrapping three times around the bead kept it secure without adding too much bulk.

Try to keep the wire as tight and even as you can. But don’t worry about lining everything up perfectly. It looks the best when it is a little uneven.

Wrap the remaining wire around the shank 2-3 times. Tuck the end in so it doesn’t poke your finger. Repeat on both sides.

And your beaded ring is done! Play around with sizes of beads and colors of wire. Each one will be unique. You can even try using multiple beads. Wrapping the wire around might be a little more difficult but definitely not impossible.

Fall Pumpkin Decorations Made from Recycled Books

September 22, 2014 By Lauren 8 Comments

It’s the first day of fall guys! I know, where did summer go?! I love this time of year. It’s still warm out but the leaves are all changing and the air is cooling down. It’s such a great season. Not to mention Halloween is coming which is one of my favorite holidays ever. Now that summer is officially over it’s time to pull out your Fall decorations. Or if you need some new ones make them, like these cute pumpkin decorations made from recycled books.

If you are holding on to every ounce of summer, you can do what my uber creative grandma did and use your pumpkins as apples until the season progresses. Isn’t that the cutest?! Put them on a red table cloth or tie red ribbon around the top to emphasis that they are apples. Maybe stack them up as a snowman for the winter? Turn them into beach balls for the summer? Okay, I’ll stop. They are pumpkins.

I picked up some books at the thrift store for $1 a piece. I looked for the thick, off-white paperback books. If they are think enough you can make two pumpkins out of each book. Check the coloring on them if you are doing multiple. You don’t want one to be bright white while the others are slightly brown.

Split the book in half if you want to make two. If you want to make an extra think pumpkin you can use the whole book. I would still suggest cutting it in half. It will be easier to cut and the spines won’t have to wrap as far around when you put it back together.

Draw half the pumpkin on the top page. Don’t worry about making it perfect, pumpkins aren’t perfect. The top should dip down where the stalk will go. Keep the bottom flat so it sits well. I drew mine about 4 inches wide (from the spine) and 5 inches tall. Using a box cutter or x-acto knife, cut threw a few pages at a time working through the book. It’s easiest if you tear the pages off as you go.

You may need to clean up the pages with scissors after you you finish. Soften the spine by bending the pages backwards. This will help separate the pages and keep the spine rounded.

Use hot glue along the spine to attach both edges. Use hot glue on the pages to keep the book extra secure. To make the stem, I used a small twig and hot glued it in place. Tie twine and string in a bow around the stem to add color.

The pumpkins look great as a center piece for tables. You can make multiple and group them together or just make one and group it with other holiday decorations.

This lovely table runner was made my mom last year. Isn’t it cute?! She is so talented!

They look great on a book shelf as well. And if I had a fireplace mantle, I bet they would look good there too.

Back to School Projects

August 19, 2014 By Lauren 2 Comments

With summer coming to and end and school starting for must kids, I can’t help but feel a little excited. I think it is a result of all the years of prepping to go back to school at this time. A little anxious about what the school year will bring, but mostly excited. Starting school again means new pencils, notebooks, and clothes. It means seeing all my friends again and getting back into a routine. I think back on that anticipation and joy and can’t help but get a little jealous. Since I am not heading back to school, I thought I would share some of my favorite projects. These are some great ideas if you are heading into the dorms this year, your first apartment, or you are looking for a gift for a student.

Paint your Own Artwork

Moving into a new dorm or new apartment means you need new artwork. Don’t think you can paint? The secret is stencils! Anyone can paint with stencils. Check out more details about this project and my use of stencils here.

Fabric Bulletin Board

These are perfect for organizing your desk and keeping reminders. Plus, it’s always nice to have a place for your friends and family photos.

My mom and I made this one and it’s been put to good use for years. It’s made with foam board, thin quilt batting, fabric, ribbon and buttons. You can put the whole thing together with hot glue.

Quilt

This one is extra special and would be an amazing gift to give any college student. My grandma made this quilt for me for my high school graduation. One side is made from old denim she had been collecting and the one side is a beautiful red orange materiel. It even came with a matching pillow case. She has made 6 of them, one for each cousin. How special is that? And it’s reversible, so when I was tired of one side, flip it for a completely new look.

I loved having this on my bed. It was a constant reminder of grandparents and what an amazing family I have. She put a lot of time and effort into making this quilt and it shows.

Here is me moving into my first apartment. I loved that place!

Paper Decor

Being a poor college kid is rough. And it’s hard to justify spending money on decorations when you have books and food to buy. Especially when you are looking for something large to cover a big white wall. I took advantage of the on campus book store, the Duck Store (UO is so punny), and bought poster board and construction paper and got to work.

Framed T-Shirts

What a cool idea from Crafts and Coffee. Everyone has those cool t-shirts that are too small or have a hole in them but you just can’t throw them away.

Add some Plants

Don’t forget to add some green friends to you space. A little greenery instantly makes a place more homey and more comfortable.

A Beautiful Mess shares an easy tutorial on creating a cacti garden. Cacti is a good choice for those that don’t always remember to water the plants. But don’t water them too often.. they don’t like that either.

Did you make anything for your dorm room that you loved? I would love to see other projects!

Dry Rub {Free Printable}

June 27, 2014 By Lauren 14 Comments

I wish I could have posted this before Father’s Day since it would have been helpful to others looking for a handmade gift for Dad. But my dad reads my blog (Hi Dad!) so I didn’t want to spoil his Father’s Day present!

But these rubs are perfect for any gift, not just Father’s Day. You can give all three or just one as a quick gift. Or make them for yourself, there is no reason you have to give it away. Once you have all of the spices, they are quick to mix up and hand out. I got the jars at Fancy That, but you can always find good jars at any craft store around. They hold about 1/2 cup which is the perfect amount.

Sweet

2 T Brown sugar
2 T Garlic powder
2 T Chipotle chili powder
2 T Paprika
1 T Onion powder
1 t Cinnamon

I love this one! It’s all about the chipotle chili powder. Seriously, make sure you get chipotle because you will love it! It adds a delicious smokey flavor that takes it to the next level. It’s that sweet and savory taste that makes things so delicious. I used it on some chicken the other night and then cooked it on the stove. It was delicious and quick (aka perfect dinner). I added a little bit of cinnamon at the very end to this one to bump up the sweet taste. Try this out on chicken, beef, or pork.

Curry

5 T Brown sugar
4 T Curry powder
1 T Salt
2 t Ginger
1 t Cardamon
1 t Pepper

I have been on a huge curry kick lately. We have been having a green thai curry for dinner a lot lately. That’s also why I was so excited to make this rub. I bet it would be really good on some shrimp. BTW Cardamon is a little expensive but amazing. Look for a small jar because you don’t need very much.

Citrus

2 T lemon peel
2 T Brown sugar
2 T peppercorn
1 T sage
1/2 T salt

Dried lemon peel is actually not as hard to find as I thought it would be. I was able to get all of these spices at Fred Meyer. But the lemon mixed with the sage. WAOH. Delish! Basil would be a good substitute for the sage if you’re not into it or if you already have basil.

Since I love these rubs, and I am sure you are going to love them as well, I have added free printable labels! Just click the link to download which ever ones you would like. (I removed the EZB – Portland, OR)

The final size is 3 x 2in. Because the black bar is full bleed, I extended it a little and added crop marks. So when you print it just use the guides at the top and sides to make your cuts.

Free Printables

Download Sweet Rub Label

Download Curry Rub Label

Download Citrus Rub Label

Fancy That Review

June 16, 2014 By Lauren 1 Comment

Fancy That, a boutique party supply and gift shop, invited some craft bloggers over to their shop for a fun afternoon of socializing and crafting. We had a blast. Their cute little store in Hillboro carries everything you need for throwing a party, create one of kind gifts, or complete a craft project.

For a cute Frozen themed party!

Or a Forth of July party

Fancy That supplied everything we needed (that can all be found in their store) for each of us to make a unique coffee and tea gift box. Each box included 4 cups and lids, instant coffee, tea spoons, and chocolate. It’s perfect for a birthday, thank you or a just because gift.

Here is my finished box! Isn’t it cute! Now I just need to find someone to give it to… Unless I keep it for myself 🙂

That puff ball on the front is made from cupcake liners! I have seen them around before but never made one. They are simple and look awesome. So you might see these little guys popping up in more places now.

Over all a great afternoon spent chatting with other bloggers and getting my craft on. Plus, I was able to pick up a few items for another project I am working on and will share later.

Wrapping Paper Baskets

June 7, 2014 By Lauren 12 Comments

Too many times I have resorted to the boring plain white paper plate to carry my cookies to a party or as a gift. It’s just not a pretty site. Sure it works and it’s convenient because you don’t have to worry about getting your plate back. But there is nothing special about a white plate.

But these little wrapping paper baskets are just super cute! Plus they are great for gifts. Tie a bow around it and it’s perfect.

Using wrapping paper is so festive and fun. Think of the Christmas wrapping paper you can use in December! But it is not as sturdy as using grocery bags. The basket out of grocery bags kept it’s shape a lot better than the wrapping paper option. Maybe I should try doubling up on the wrapping paper and having the best of both worlds.

Below is a quick tutorial so you can create baskets for all of your goodies.

Need:
Wrapping paper
Hot Glue Gun
Scissors

1. Cut your strips of wrapping paper 1.5 inches wide. The wrapping paper I used was from the Dollar Tree was it was only 17in long. If you are using a normal sized roll, cut the pieces in half length-wise. This will make the more manageable when you are weaving the pieces in.

2. Fold each piece in half length-wise, or hot dog style, for those of you who like food references. You want your strips to be a little sturdier and the print to be showing on both sides.

3. Lay out the base of your basic by weaving the pieces together. My basket is 5 strips wide. 5 strips will make your basket 4.5 x 4.5 inches. Adjust the number of strips used to make your basket bigger or smaller. There is no reason your basket has to be square either. Try out a rectangular one.

5. Hot glue all of the outside strips so the base stays in a perfect square and none of your pieces move. Try to line up your strips as close together as possible. The finished basket will look best if there aren’t any holes between strips.

6. Fold the strips up to start forming the shape of the basket.

5. Start weaving the pieces through, hot glueing at each of the corners. I glued many of the pieces together to make it a little stronger. I am sure everything will stay in place when it is finished but it was easier to work on when nothing was moving around.

Hide the star and finished of each strip on the inside of your basket to keep the outside looking clean.

6. Once you have finished weaving the sides cut the ends of the paper leaving about a half inch of paper. Fold each end inward and secure with hot glue.

7. Fill with delicious things.

Alternative ideas:

– Newspaper
– Draw on butcher paper to create your own design
– Magazine pages
– Old recipe pages
– Make a really wide base and short sides to layout the cookies. You may need to add cardboard to the bottom so it is sturdy enough to hold everything

PS. Interested in other quick projects? Check out Crafty hour – all projects take less than an hour. Or you might enjoy making a Copper Pipe Bookshelf or instagram coasters! Happy crafting!

Beaded Stir Stick

April 11, 2014 By Lauren 3 Comments

It’s nice to be able to do a beading project that is not jewelry. It’s nice to have different projects. Plus these will make me look super sophisticated with my fancy drinks. Stir sticks are perfect for mixing up a drink and adding fruit or olives. All that’s needed now is a fancy cocktail party.

You will need about 15 inches of wire per stick. Select and string your beads on the wire. Don’t add too many beads or you will have an oddly large top. One large bead,6 small beads, and 10 mini beads seamed to work well for me. You can always play around with the beads to figure out the size that works best for you. Maybe even make some special ones for holidays. Cute snowman at the top would be adorable for a Christmas party or as a gift.

You may need some help twisting the rest of the stick. My dad gave me safety wire pliers for my birthday so that made this project really easy. But not everyone has these just sitting around. You can use a dowel or a pencil to twist the wire. You will still need a clamp or someone to hold the end but the dowel will give you added leverage to twist the wire.

When you are done cut the end of the wire and file down the sharp edges. My beaded stir sticks are about 5 inches long. It’s a good size for stirring but they might be a little long for holding fruit and sitting in the glass. Play around with the size until you find the perfect length. You can alway cut them later if you need.

The Ultimate Handwarmer

January 25, 2014 By Lauren Leave a Comment

I set out to create more than just a Christmas present on this project. I had a challenge to solve: my grandparents always seem to have cold hands. You know – cold hands, warm heart.

It is the worst when they are sitting and relaxing or watching TV. No one wants to wear gloves inside and blanks only go so far. I started strategizing with my mom to solve this issue and we came up with a pretty interesting solution.

Using the idea from the rice filled hand warmers, I create a large lap hand-warming pocket. It was important that my Grandpa could rest his hands instead of holding on to something and I wanted the warmth to come from all directions.

I ultimately decided to add buttons on the side for added utility. Now they can lay it out over their lap or use it as a back warmer. I’m all about multi-purpose.

The downside to that rice is pretty heavy. I didn’t fill each pocket with very much rice to keep down the weight but that also means it won’t hold as much heat. The one thing I am disappointed about is that the opening is closest to the body. Now when you are relaxing on the couch you don’t generally sit prim and proper with your hands straight in front. They would more commonly come from the sides. Overall I am very happy with my present and I hope my Grandparents are too. I might make myself a similar one to put on my lap or back when I’m cold or sore.