Think Outside The Cloth

DIY Ring Holder

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Posted on December 27, 2014 by Think Outside The Cloth

I hope everyone had a great Holiday! Now that Christmas is over I always feel the need to declutter and clean, so that I meet the New Year with a clean and tidy space. The first thing I’m tackling is my big basket of accessories which I sometimes loose my rings in an abyss of bracelets and necklaces. But there is an easy solution – DIY Ring Holder!

I hope you saved your small gift boxes because this DIY Ring Holder is super easy and it’s a useful tool for storing all your rings and pretty little things.

The Supplies

Small box
Old shirt, or any material
Scissors

The Steps

Lay your material flat. If you’re using an old shirt or pants cut along a seam and open the material up so you have 1 layer.

Put the box on top of the material, and cut a strip which is the same width as the box. The strips of material should be anywhere from 10 to 12 inches in length.

Tightly roll up the strip of material, and place the loose end down in the box. If the roll is too long for the box trim off some of the end.

Repeat, cutting and rolling the strips of material until you have a few rolls which fit tightly in the box.

Fill with your rings!

If you’re also looking for an easy DIY Earring Organizer click here.

Do you have any traditions that you like to do before the year end?

-Shanel

10 DIY & Custom Christmas Gifts

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Posted on December 16, 2014 by Think Outside The Cloth

The countdown to Christmas begins! This year channel your inner craftsman and DIY some of your gifts. Handmade gifts not only help you to avoid packed malls, but they can be pretty inexpensive to make, and they show you’ve put some thought into the gift.

There’s so many great and easy tutorials to create custom gifts. I’ve rounded up a list of 10 custom Christmas gifts you can DIY for the special people on your list, give to a host for a party, or even make for yourself.

Candy Sleighs

For the person on your list with a sweet tooth, this is a simple and easy DIY gift that is inexpensive to make. All you need is some large candy canes, glue, chocolate bars, ribbon, and a bow.

Tutorial and image via Ellyn’s Place

Custom Written Plates or Mugs

This DIY dishware is not only nice to look at but it’s also a sweet sentimental gift. Try adding a quote, story or song lyrics that relate to the person you’ll be giving the dishware to. Use a Sharpie or porcelain pen to write out your message.

Image via List 25

Embellished Candle Holders

These embellished candles are super cute and make a great gift for any party host, or a stocking stuffer.

Tutorial and image via We Heart This

Instagram Calendar

For the Instagram obsessed friend this is a gift that they’ll be sure to use all year round.

Tutorial and image via A Beautiful Mess

Custom Phone, Tablet or Laptop Skin

Make an extra special custom skin for that person who is all about their electronics. LaurDIY has a great tutorial on how to do so.

Candy Cane Flower Centerpiece

Add a sweet touch to flowers for a host by adding candy canes around a circular vase, finish off with a bow or ribbon.

Tutorial and image via Ecopolitan Bride

Tea Wreath

This tea wreath would look amazing in anyone’s kitchen. It’s not only festive, but also a really creative way to organize and display a tea collection.

Image and tutorial via Kojodesigns

Embellished Scarf & Gloves

For the style-conscious person on your list this is a great gift that will keep them warm in style.

Image and tutorial via Clones N Clowns

Photo Pillow

A custom photo pillow is a good gift for that friend or family member who lives abroad. Add an image they’ll be happy to snuggle up to.

Image via Walmart

Reindeer Beer

For hosts of a party alcohol is a pretty common gift, make your booze stand out by bringing reindeer beer! It’s festive, and I’m sure everyone at the party will appreciate the creativity. Make a kid friendly version by swapping the beer with root beer.

Tutorial and image via Life of a Modern Mom

Do you have a favourite gift that someones made for you? Share below!

-Shanel

DIY Embellished Sweater

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Posted on November 18, 2014 by Think Outside The Cloth

As winter quickly approaches I’m slowly entering a hibernation phase which has led to a lot of cleaning and organizing. I was going through my clothes when I realized I had FOUR plain grey sweaters that look almost identical, so it’s only natural that I had to DIY one. As I did some more cleaning of my craft stash l found a bunch of left over gems from this DIY Jewel Frame, and so this project was born.

I loved how this DIY sweater embellishment turned out. The supplies and steps are very minimal, but with different coloured embellishment and layouts you can create a really unique look.

The Supplies

2 Different coloured Gems
Fabric glue
A small Stick
A piece of scrap cardboard or bristol board

DIYSweateremblishmentsupplied

The Steps

Lay your sweater on a flat surface. So you don’t glue both sides of your sweater together, place the scrap material on the inside of your sweater.

Take your gems and layout your design. I tried a few before I decided on a “V” shape.

Begin gluing down your gems. Use the stick to press down on them.

Let it dry.

DIYSweaterembellishment

How do you like to add some sparkle & shine to your outfits?

-Shanel

From Day to Night, Ways to Wear Your Little Black Dress

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Posted on November 10, 2014 by Think Outside The Cloth

The Little black dress or LBD is an essential clothing staple for any females wardrobe. Black is flattering for any figure, and it’s a blank canvas that you can easily dress up or down regardless of your style. I love the LBD because it’s versatile enough to take you from a day of coffee to a night of cocktails. 2 looks from 1 dress, how can you lose?

With the help of Style Sets from dailylook.com. Here’s my tips on how you can take your little black dress from a day at work to a night on the town.

Beautysets - Ways to Wear Your Little Black Dres

Ways to Wear Your Little Black Dress
with
DailyLook

Layers

Day

A nicely cut blazer or cardigan can instantly polish up your LBD, and make it look more professional.

Whether your at work or running errands a patterned scarf is an easy way to add texture and a pop of colour to your LBD. Plus, if your LBD has a plunging neckline or shows a lot of skin a scarf can be an easy way to make it work appropriate.

Night

Adding a vest to your LBD can give it an edgier look and also add some shape to your dress.

Day & Night

A pair of tights can go a long way and can add some fun texture and color to your LBD.

Accessories

Day

Dl-112869-rasberry-v0

If your going to wear a bold or brightly colored patterned scarf with your LBD during the day, I like to keep the accessories to a minimum. A classic watch is a great way to finish off your look.

Night

Dl-106223-gold-v0

Have fun mixing and matching your accessories. Like I said the LBD is like a blank canvas, and accessories such as a statement necklace instantly add some shine and shimmer.

Shoes

Day & Night

Black booties with some detailing and a heel can transform your look from day to night with ease. Plus the added height from the heel can make your legs look longer.

Bags

Day

A dark colored chic duffel bag is the perfect size for carrying around everyday items and it’s easy to pair with a LBD.

Night

If you don’t want to lug around a large bag all night, keep a clutch inside of your bag to use for later. Clutches are perfect for carrying the essentials, and a statement clutch can also help glam up your look.

How do you like to wear your Little Black Dress? Try making your own Style Set at dailylook.com. It’s a lot of fun!

-Shanel

DIY Pearl & Wire Ring

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Posted on November 6, 2014 by Think Outside The Cloth

Lately I’ve really been loving the combo of pearls and gold. I’ve always been drawn to gold accessories, I like that pearls add more of a delicate look and a touch of femininity.

I was practicing with crafting wire when I decided to put together this DIY pearl and wire ring. Continue reading to learn how to make it.

The Supplies

Crafting wire I used 20 gauge (.032 inch) wire
Pearls
Scissors
Flat nose pliers
Glue
A thin stick a toothpick will do
A circular item that’s approximately the same size as your finger

The Steps

Cut a 4-inch piece of crafting wire.

Take the end of the wire and wrap it once clockwise around your circular item.

Test that it fits comfortably around your finger. Make adjustments if necessary.

Use the pliers to bend the wire downward.

Bend the wire to the right, so you have a 90 degree angle.

Wrap the remaining wire clockwise around the circular item.

Again, test that the ring fits on your finger.

Once you have your desired fit cut the remainder of the wire off.

Add a pearl and then a dab of glue. Move the pearl to the end of the ring. Repeat on the opposite end.

Let the glue dry.

All done 🙂

– Shanel

Where to Look for Last Minute DIY Halloween Costume Ideas

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Posted on October 23, 2014 by Think Outside The Cloth

Where has the time gone? Halloween is a week away. If you’re still not sure what to dress up as try DIYing your own costume.

You don’t have to be super crafty to make your own Halloween costume. When you think outside the ~~box~~ cloth it can be easy to create a unique and inexpensive look. DIYing or customizing your Halloween costume gives you the chance to add your own touch. When you’ve bought your costume out a bag there’s always a chance someone else could be wearing the same one. Then you could instantly find yourself in a who wore it better showdown. And nobody wants that.

Here’s a list of tips and places to look for inspiration for DIY Halloween costumes. Some of the suggested costumes were created inexpensively by myself or friends.

Shirt Printing Company

Use a shirt printing company to print the logo of your favorite beverage or food on a piece of clothing. Most companies just require a high vector file version of the image. You can purchase the clothing item to print on from the printing company or bring your own clothing to print on. Then you can add or make your own accessories.

Costume Idea: My friend Sofia printed the Tim Hortons logo onto a dress and she made earrings out of sugar packets. And no that’s not coffee in her hand.

Thrift & Vintage Stores

Image

Vintage and thrift stores are a good place to find unique pieces for a low cost. It may take some creativity and searching to piece together an outfit, but the efforts are well worth it. No one will have the exact costume as you.

Costume Idea: Try dressing up as someone from a different era, like the 80’s. Search the isles for bright, colorful and shiny items.

The Dollar Store

The dollar store is a great resource for Halloween accessories. I’ve seen wigs, face paint, wings, face masks all inexpensively priced at the dollar store.

Costume Idea: DIY 3 Blind Mice Costume

3BlindmiceHalloweenCostume

3-blind mice is a cute group costume you can easily make with dollar store supplies. Here are the supplies you’ll need,

Dark sunglasses
Black eyeliner or face paint
Headband
A sheet of grey felt or construction paper
A sheet of pink felt or construction paper
Glue or tape

The Steps
Use the grey paper to cut out a large circle to create the outer part of the mouse ears. Use the pink paper and cut out a smaller circle to create the inner part of the ear. Glue the pink paper to the grey piece to complete the ear. Glue or tape the ears to the headband

Use black face paint or eyeliner to draw a nose and some whiskers on your cheeks

Tape or glue the ears to the headband.

If you want to, you could even make walking sticks.

Your Makeup Bag

DIY Gothic Halloween costume

Image

Wear your Halloween costume on your face. Makeup can be used to create some spooky Halloween looks.

Costume Idea: Draw spider webs around your eyes with black eyeliner. If you’re not skilled in the makeup department many cosmetic stores will do your makeup if you purchase a product. There are also a lot of great tutorials on YouTube.

Raid A Closet

RunawayBrideHalloween

First raid your own closet to look for any old clothing items that could be used for a costume.

Or try raiding someones closet with a totally different style than yours; like your grandma, boyfriend, etc. You may find something that could work as a cool costume.

I took my first communion dress and with a bit of cutting and sewing. I was able to turn myself into a runaway bride. I completed the look with a Ring Pop engagement ring.

Costume Idea: Your graduation dress you wore once? Dress it up once again with a sash and crown and turn yourself into a prom queen.

Old Uniforms

Halloween Weed Brownie

Image

Get creative and use parts of old uniforms from school, work, sports, or organizations.

Costume Idea: Weed Brownie. This weed brownie costume is a hilarious and clever way to make use of an old Brownie sash.

I hope you’ve been inspired to make your own Halloween costume.

What are you dressing up as this year?

-Shanel

3-Step DIY Crop Top

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Posted on October 1, 2014 by Think Outside The Cloth

If you’re shy about DIY give this a try. This DIY long-sleeved crop top is not only super easy and quick, it requires only two supplies (which you likely have laying around somewhere).

Continue reading →

5 Fix-it Fashion Tools

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Posted on September 24, 2014 by Think Outside The Cloth

Wardrobe malfunctions are a huge annoyance that anyone who wears clothes has likely experienced on occasion. These tools are great to have handy if you find yourself in a clothing catastrophe.

1. Safety pins

10-Easy-Ways-to-Reuse-Safety-Pins-300x206

Safety pins are a great tool for when you need to fix a wardrobe malfunction in a hurry. You can use a safety pin to hide an exposed bra strap by pinning to the inside of your shirt. Safety pins can also help hold pieces of a broken chain together.

Got a broken zipper? they can help with that too, use a safety pin as a replacement tab. They’re also a great last resort for holding material together when you have no time to sew.

Plus, here a bunch of DIYs you can try making with safety pins.

2. Double sided tape

J lo dress

Jennifer Lopez’s epic Grammy outfit probably would not have happened without the help of double sided tape.

Use double sided tape to keep knee high socks and stockings from falling, as a temporary hold for loose hems, and to hold fabric in place for plunging shirts or dresses. For bustier girls, it’s also a great tool for keeping gaping holes in your button down shirts closed, which helps avoid any awkward stares below the neck.

3. Clear nail polish

Clear nail polish doesn’t just make your nails look pretty, paint on a coat to keep your costume jewellery from tarnishing. To stop a stocking run in its tracks, paint on clear nail polish on both ends of the run. Also use it to save time when threading needles by adding to the end of unruly thread.

4. Permanent markers

Use permanent marker to quickly cover up any scuffs or scratches on black heels or bags.

5. Rubber Elastics

If you, like me prefer to hang most of your clothes it’s pretty annoying when you have shirts that constantly fall off. Add some rubber bands on the ends of the hanger and problem solved. If you have a long belt that you want to wear high on your waist, add a small elastic to the same end as the belt buckle to hold up the long hanging end.

Do you have any annoying wardrobe malfunctions stories? Share below!

-Shanel

Image Sources: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5, Image 6

DIY Graphic Print Shoes

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Posted on September 17, 2014 by Think Outside The Cloth

The wardrobe transition has started. It’s that time of year to swap the sandals for closed toe shoes and boots. While I’m clicking my heels together wishing for another week of summer weather, I decided to revamp an old pair of flats and give them a new look. Read on to learn how.

The Supplies

A pair of shoes
Acrylic paint. If your shoes are a fabric material like Chuck Taylors use fabric paint instead.
Paint brushes
Small bowl
*Clear drying finish such as Mod Podge Outdoors

*If your shoes are made of fabric material skip the finish.

The Steps

Clean the shoes making sure they are free of any dirt or debris.

Pour some paint into the bowl, using the paint brush create whatever design you like. You can customize your shoes by splattering the paint or creating polka dots. I created my design by putting a big blob of paint onto the shoes and then I used the paint brush to spread the paint to create lines.

Let the paint dry.

Once the paint is fully dried. Use a large paint brush to paint on the finish, leave to dry for 24 hours.

And you’re done!

-Shanel

NYFW Dash of DIY Inspo

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Posted on September 13, 2014 by Think Outside The Cloth

With the recent finale of New York Fashion Week. I decided to scope both runway and NYFW street style looks for some dashes of DIY inspiration. Even though winter hasn’t started (**shudders) the collections made me excited for what styles are to come for Spring 2015. Check out the pics below for 2014 NYFW looks and DIY inspos.

Proenza Schouler Spring/Summer 2015

I could see myself twirling in these dresses all day long! To get this flirty fringe take a maxi skirt or dress start from the bottom and begin cutting long narrow strips up to the thigh. Stretch each strip as you go.

As a sucker for colours this statement clutch looks like a bag of fun (lol see what I did there?). To don this as a DIY find a plain clutch and brightly coloured fabrics. Create a stencil with paper, cutting out different sized and shaped pieces. Trace the outlines of the stencils on the different coloured fabric and cut out. Use a good fabric glue to stick the cut outs on to the clutch.

J. Mendel Spring 2015

Love love love this dress. To DIY it grab some black, yellow and white fabric paint and some paint brushes. Create diagonal strokes with the different colours. Try it on a skirt or shirt.

I like how delicate and feminine the lace makes this outfit look. Take a maxi dress cutting out the sides of material, replace the cut out with lace by either sewing or gluing with fabric glue.

DKNY Spring/Summer 2015

Mesh is no longer just for the gym. For a sporty-sexy look get a bunch of mesh fabric and overlay it on a mini skirt that’s either stretchy or has a zipper. Sew the mesh along the sides and to the top of the skirt, like this DIY.

Thom Browne Spring 2015

To get this look simply get a badminton racket (because they are smaller and lighter than tennis rackets) and a headband. Cut the head band tying each end to the side of the racket and wear on your face. LOL I’m totally kidding but if you want to give this a go please make sure to send me a lot of pictures, or at least tag me on Instagram at @outsidethecloth.

Do you have any favorite collections or looks from 2014 NYFW? Let me know in the comments below :).

-Shanel

Sources: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5, Image 6, Image 7

Think Outside the Cloth

Author Archives: Think Outside The Cloth

DIY Ring Holder

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10 DIY & Custom Christmas Gifts

Featured

DIY Embellished Sweater

Featured

From Day to Night, Ways to Wear Your Little Black Dress

Featured

DIY Pearl & Wire Ring

Featured

Where to Look for Last Minute DIY Halloween Costume Ideas

Featured

3-Step DIY Crop Top

Featured

5 Fix-it Fashion Tools

Featured

DIY Graphic Print Shoes

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NYFW Dash of DIY Inspo

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