Instagram Collage Wall Art

I love the website "A Beautiful Mess." I am always checking on it to see their latest DIY's that they have posted. I recently found this one before Christmas.

Here is the Tutorial

I was so excited to make one for myself to remember the year 2012. Only difference between hers and mine is the size. I went with a 16" x 20" rather than her square 12" x 12". Go big or go home. That's how I roll. :)

Here is how it turned out!

I liked it so well, I made 3 more for some very close friends (Facebook Instagram stalker. Busted.) They were a hit!

Good bye, 2012! Happy New Year!

Cozy Sweatpant Christmas Gift Basket!

Looking for a low cost, but heartfelt gift to give a family or friend this year? Why not go with sweats?! I love my collection of sweatpants (who doesn't?!) and find myself in them ALOT around the house during the holidays.

These super easy and didn't cost much. I purchased the hot cocoa, coffee mugs, and Basket at Dollar Tree and hit up Target and Walmart for the sweatpants. This one was made for a dear friend of mine.

I used some scrap die cut circles I found at my print shop that was going in the garbage. I hand wrote HAVE A on one, COZY on another, and CHRISTMAS on the last one. Then layered them, and tied them to the basket. I could have just slipped a card into the basket, but I will admit, I was in a bit of a hurry when I did these.

This was done for a family of three. Mom, Dad, and Baby will enjoy a cozy Christmas!


Happy Holidays! <3

DIY Chapstick Christmas Gifts

I really wanted to do something outside of the norm this year for Christmas "Cards". Thinking about it the other day, I remembered this Burt's Bees Chapstick gift mailer that I had found online awhile ago: 

http://www.giverslog.com/?p=11402

BINGO! Everyone's lips get dry this time of year. I started with her idea, then ran with it a little bit. End product? Chappy Holidays!

Materials needed:

• Chapstick (I got mine on sale 2 for $3 at Walgreens)
• 2 1/2" x 8.5" sheet to roll around chapstick bottle. 
• Masking tape
• Sharpie Marker
• Scissors

First, design your 2 1/2" x 8.5" greeting sheet of paper. I am a graphic designer, do designed mine on the computer, but you can get creative other ways if you like! Scrapbook paper, stickers, stamps, etc.

Cut out your sheet to fit.

Apply Masking tape to the edge and lay chapstick on top so that it will roll evenly inside the sheet. Then roll, roll, roll!

Write Unroll me with your Sharpie Marker on a piece of masking tape to seal.

I made bunches and they only cost .65 cents to ship each one (I shipped mine in small envelopes.) I can't wait to hear about what my friends and family think of the little surprise gifts they will be receiving in the mail!

These would also make wonderful stocking stuffers. Enjoy!

DIY T-Shirt/Tank Top Dress

I was totally inspired by Kelly W's T-Shirt Tank Top dress on Cut Out and Keep's website. Here are her instructions.

I immediately grabbed some vino and got to work. I found an old tank top and Sublime Shirt (the Sublime shirt had a stain on the sleeve, and I just couldn't part with it.) Took me about an hour or so and was super easy. Here was my final project!

Notes for you and myself when making another:

• DON'T USE WHITE FOR THE BOTTOM! Seriously, what were you thinking, Melissa?!
• Cut the bottom into more of a triangle so that it allows more room for your hips and flairs out at the bottom. Mine ended up being pretty tight.

Happy Monday! Have a wonderful week!

DIY Quick Sparkle Gem / Rhinestone Earrings!

The other day, I was making another one of my frequent trips to Michael's in search of some rhinestones. When digging through the craft section, I stumbled across these beautiful gems! 

A smile immediately took over my face. I COULD MAKE THESE INTO EARRINGS! And they only took a few minutes to make!

All you need is earring post blanks, the gems (they are only a couple bucks and come in every color imaginable!) and  E-6000.

Put a dob of glue on the earring post, then place it up towards the edge of the gem. If you place it in the center, the earring will not sit right on your ear. I did some in black, too!

Let earrings dry for 24 hours.

I wish my photo did the earrings justice. Darn iPhone. It picks up so many colors in the light! I will definitely be heading back to Michael's to purchase more colors. The best part? Each package came with 10 pieces (5 pair) so I have enough left over to give as Christmas Presents!

Have a wonderful week!

DIY Chalkboard Key Hangers

Every time I perform in a play, I like to give handmade cast gifts that relate to the show. Right now, I am in a child-like spelling show, so I brainstormed ideas that centered around letters and education. Also, I like my gifts to be functional. Wah Lah! DIY Chalkboard Key Hangers!

Supplies:

• Unfinished wood frame (I bought mine from Walmart for .97 cents each)
• Black Chalkboard Paint (I used Americana from Hobby Lobby)
• Command Strip Picture hangers (To hang it on the wall without causing damage to paint. You can use a regular toothed picture hanger if you would rather.)
• Command Hooks
• Black Acrylic Paint
• Clear Nail Polish or Clear Spray Paint
• 4" x 6" Design of your choice
• I used 4" x 6" chip board to go behind the design to give it some support. This is optional.

I made 11 total. First start with a layer of chalkboard paint. Paint vertically or horizontally. Let dry for one hour, then apply a second coat in the other direction.

Wait time specified on Chalkboard paint for drying, then apply your key hook. I used white Command Hooks to save time. This crafty girl likes to work fast! Paint the hooks black to match the chalkboard paint with acrylic paint.

Seal with Clear Nail Polish or Clear Spray Paint to prevent chipping of the black paint on the plastic surface.

 I went to the computer and designed each person's first initial onto a neat vintage background, then inserted theater masks on the top and bottom. This is the fun part! Get creative and customize for the recipient or yourself! 

You can also design a last initial and use a hook on each bottom corner.

Cut to 4" x 6" to fit the frame.

Optional: Glue onto 4" x 6" Chipboard for durability.

After Command Strips are dry, apply them by cutting the rounded surface off the bottom of the adhesive strip.

Place Command Picture Hanging Strips to the back on the top. Follow instructions on back panel.

Cure Chalkboard surface by coloring in the paint with chalk, then rub off with a wet towel.

All done! All 11 only took me a couple hours to complete. These would make wonderful Christmas presents, His and Hers for newlyweds, birthday gifts, co-worker presents.... the list can keep on going. The chalkboard is great to leave reminders for yourself or for anyone in your family.

And of course I had to make one for myself. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Eyeglass Review from Zenni Optical

Received my package from Zenni Optical on Friday. It was like Christmas! :) With the prices and selection offered at Zenni, having a large stash of frames on hand to match any outfit is possible. Honestly, I didn't spend more that $13.00 on any of these 4 frames! (Except on the sun glasses, I did fork over the $5 in addition to tint the lenses.) Only took about a week and half to receive them. 

I love them all, but I think the skull and crossbones are my fav! Can't wait to order more!

Heat Free Curls / Waves Overnight!

There are several reasons I prefer sleeping in rollers over curling my hair every morning.

• I can sleep in a little later. If you're anything like me, mornings suck.
• No damage to my hair. I find that curling my hair everyday always shows before my next hair cut. Split end city!
• The cost for most of these methods I use is minimal.
• It takes me less time to throw my hair in rollers before bed than it does to curl my entire head.

These are the items I like and use the most often. The ways I use them works for me. I had to run around a few days looking an awful lot like Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City before I nailed my methods that work for my thin, long hair. I encourage you to try my ways AND maybe try some different options to make them work for you!

With all of these tutorials, I use my trusted Beyond the Zone Super Sexy Wave Spray which I have ranted about in my Sally Beauty Supply Favorite post (see here)

 Conair Spiral Curlers

I really enjoyed this tutorial. However, I found that using these

with wet hair like she did made me look like a poodle for about half of the next day. My trick is to use them with dry hair with product only. These can be purchased at Wal-Mart, Target, or Amazon.

Curlformers

I have the "Long and Wide" (come in a pack of 8) and the "Extra Long and Extra Wide" (Come in a pack of 4) Curlformers on hand. The "Long and Wide" Give me much tighter curls that fall looser throughout the day, where as the "Extra Long and Extra Wide" give me big, beautiful waves. 

On the "Long and Wide" Curlformers, I use them on Dry Hair. Once again, I find the curls to be too tight if I use them on wet. However, the "Extra Long and Extra Wide" Curlformers have to be used on 50% Wet Hair, or the curls fall out quickly.

I found that I had to buy 2 packs of each for my hair, and all of them are used. They do have Curlformer Styling Kits available that include around 40 rods, but they will put you back about $65.00. I don't have a need for that many, so the smaller packs did just fine for me. I'm sure those with thicker hair or those that want tighter curls will need to make the larger purchase.

Super Bendy Rollers

(7/8" Diameter)

When using my 7/8" bendy rollers from Sally Beauty Supply, I put them in my hair as if I have mohawk and use little clips on the ends of my hair to make sure they stay. They don't bend well enough to avoid using the clips. I lightly spray my hair with water and place product in my hair. I wake up with big waves when I use this option. Caution: Place the curlers on your head where you don't usually sleep. I tend to sleep on my side, that the mohawk works best for me. It's really painful if you sleep on these.

Super Bendy Rollers

(3/4" Diameter)

I found this video online, which is how I was introduced to these Super Bendy Rollers. I do mine identical to how HauteBrilliance does. These don't hurt so much to sleep on like the 7/8" ones do.

Traditional Sponge Curlers

Last but certainly not least, are the sponge curlers. Definitely never have a problem sleeping in these :) I use them with 50% wet hair with smoothing cream and a little mousse. 6 does it for my thin hair, and I place them all pretty low. End product is beautiful, big curls that look like the results I get with my curling iron. 

Above picture was done with 3/4" Super Bendy rollers. Photo was even taken 24 hours after I took them out. Enjoy! 

DIY Friendship Bracelet Headphones

My hubby and I recently took a trip to Orlando with another couple that have been good friends with us for a long time. We had a wonderful time! Knowing that I would be on a plane (and that I can't hold still to save my life), I knew I had to pack a little craft that would transport well and be allowed on a flight.

I remembered this awesome tutorial from Mod Cloth on youtube on how to make these sweet tangle-free, friendship wrapped headphones!

I only used one color at a time and knotted it directly over the headphones, then knotted a new color below that, which took me WAY longer (I was trying to avoid wasting thread) I would recommend doing it the way Mod Cloth did.

My final product!

Right now I am working on one with rainbow crochet thread. No switching from color to color! And it is such a portable craft, I am able to keep everything I need in a little pouch in my purse (Use a nail clippers as scissors) 

I know what I'm making for Christmas gifts this year!

The Best Products From Sally Beauty Supply

 

I spend far too much time and money at Sally Beauty Supply. What can I say? I am a girly girl. And because of that, I know what are the best products to keep on my shopping list and the ones to stay away from. I can't wait to share my picks with you!

Category #1: No Heat Curls!

Super Rollers

What the website says:

• Soft, flexible

• Easy to use

• Will not absorb perm solution

• Great for setting hair or perming

• Specifically designed to create spiral curls

Hair Art Long Super Rollers create soft, natural curls without pins or clips to help you create a variety of hairstyles.

My Opinion:

I have 2 sizes and love these things. My only cons are that they are a bit uncomfortable to sleep in. But you can't beat the price of 8 bucks to wake up with curls in the morning.

 Curlformers

What the website says:

• Gives you the choice to have exactly the curls you want, where you want them

• Easy to use on yourself or on someone else

• Easily curl the entire length of your hair, or just a section

• Less training and less time

• Precise definition and tension to curls

• Visually dramatic and fun to use

• Color coded for easy use

Finally a way to easily create quick and perfect curls! Curlformers are revolutionary because the hair is curled inside the curlformer - it does the work for you. Curlformers on take on average a third of the time to apply than other curlers, delivering your perfect curl style in record time. Fun and safe for everyone to use,
Curlformers give perfectly defined curls, whether you have straight or wavy hair. The rollers come in a range of lengths and widths to enable full creativity.

My Opinion:

I also have these in 2 sizes (extra long and narrow and extra wide and long) Just like the Super Rollers, these are difficult to sleep in. But my curls are flawless every morning.

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Category #2: Hair Products!

Bobby Pins

What the Website Says:

• Patented, Japanese technology goes into making the best pin for the professional hair stylist
• Enhanced, long-lasting spring
• Firm, secure grip
• Rust resistant
• Durable tips

Premium quality bob pins that are slip-proof and durable. These will be the best bob pins that will ever be used!

My Opinion:

These are by far the best bobby pins I have ever tried.They came in a range of sizes and colors. Also come with a neat little storage container. Perfect for your purse or wherever.

Curling Irons

What the Website Says:

• Variable temperature control up to 400º F.
• Rheostat temperature dial
• 25 Heat Settings
• Cool touch tip
• Built in iron stand
• 9-ft. swivel power cord

The Nano Silver Ceramic barrel technology in the Jilbere Professional Ceramic Curling irons emit negative ions to smooth and relax hair while maintaining the natural oils to bring back the hairs natural luster and shine. A ceramic heater is for optimum performance and instant and even heat up to 400º F.

Gentle, far infrared heat protects hair from frizz and damage while creating smooth, soft, shiny and long-lasting curls. Nano Silver is known for its antibacterial properties and promotes healthy hair and scalp. Nano Silver Technology unites microparticles of ceramic and silver for a unique combination of benefits that create smooth, silky curls.

My Opinion:

I love my Jilbere brand curling iron, but own several different brands of curling irons/wavers/crimpers from Sally Beauty. There quality cannot be matched by big box stores.

Proclaim Argan Oil Intense Hydrating Masque

What the Website Says:

• Detangles frizzy hair
• Nourishes hair
• Leaves hair soft

Proclaim Argan Oil Intense Hydrating Masque is an indulgent, ultra rich conditioning treatment that helps repair dry, damaged or chemically treated hair.

Nourishes and detangles frizzy and unruly hair. Leaves hair extra ordinarily soft, silky and manageable.

My Opinion:

This stuff rocks. I use it once a week and it does exactly as it states.

Beyond The Zone Super Sexy Wave Spray

What the Website Says:

• Reproduces the effects of a day at the beach
• Creates texture and volume for wind-swept randomly textured styles
• Style in tousled, loose, irregular waves or a sexy messy finish
• Great for anyone who wants that sexy, beach look hair year round
• Can be used with all shades of hair color
• Creates incredible volume and shine
• Flexible but lasting hold
• Never greasy, stiff or sticky

Now you can get that day-at-the-beach salty, wind blown look with Beyond The Zone Super Sexy Wave Spray. Build volume as you create random loose texture to your hair. Beyond the Zone Super Sexy Wave Spray is a volume building, styling and texture spray that's ideal for creating that "just left the beach" style.

My Opinion:

I love to use this stuff before my No-Heat Hairstyles that I sleep in. It's also great for revamping 2nd day curls. Also smells great. A must have for any long haired girl, such as myself.

Batiste Dry Shampoo

This stuff cannot be purchased with Sally Beauty Supply online, but can be purchased in the store. It is, hands down, the BEST dry shampoo EVER! And it's only around $7.00. I have never had luck with dry shampoos until I found this one. A must have.

TRESemme Tres Two Extra Hold Hair Spray

What the Website Says:

• Maximum hold with extra flyaway control
• Professional no-water formula
• 24 Hour humidity resistance
• Never stiff or sticky
• Won’t build up or flake

TRESemme Tres Two Extra Hold Hair Spray is a fantastic hair spray that refuses to let frizz take root, thanks to its humidity-resistant formula that keeps flyaways smooth for 24 hours.

A natural hold that lasts all day long. Allows for a flexible control that's even water-free and humidity resistant. Provides you with styling time before drying for maximum creativity and control. Won't give you a helmet head but will hold your style through wind and rain.

An added bonus is that its water-free formula goes on dry giving hair grip and control without stickiness.

My Opinion:

I know you can purchase this in big box stores, as well. But Sally's is always awesome about "Buy one, get one" deals. I like to stock up on this hair spray when they are running a special. It is the best hair spray for the money, I believe. Leaves my hair curled all day without that hard feeling.

Beyond The Zone Turn Up The Heat Protection Spray

What the Website Says:

• Use with any heat styling appliance
• Leaves hair soft and manageable
• Seals the cuticle for silky smooth looking hair
• Creates slip for effortless heat styling

Beyond The Zone Turn Up The Heat Flat Iron Protection Spray is a spray-in treatment that smoothes hair. This humidity-resistant heat styling aid adds a "Heat Defense" barrier that protects the hair from thermal heat.

Beyond The Zone Turn Up The Heat Flat Iron Protection Spray helps optimize the effectiveness of flat irons, curling irons, and hair dryers while providing outstanding heat protection, and adding smoothness, shine, and softness to your hair.

My Opinion:

At the time this post was written, the website said 168 out of 180 (93%) people would recommend this product to a friend. I think that speaks for itself!

Ion Color Solutions Line of Shampoo & Conditioners

What the Website Says:

Shampoo:

• Leaves hair shiny and healthy-looking
• For all types of color-treated hair
• Paraben Free

Ion Color Defense Shampoo gently cleanses and strengthens color-treated hair while protecting from heat styling and environmental damage. Seals in color, adds moisture and shine, and increases manageability. Leaves hair color looking vibrant and fresh.

Conditioner:

• Moisturizes and conditions the hair
• Leaves hair smooth and silky
• 100% Vegan, Paraben Free
• Helps maintain color

Ion Color Defense Intense Moisture provides deep daily moisturizing to protect and maintain all types of color-treated hair. Leaves hair vibrant, shiny, smooth and manageable.

Color Defense Leave-On Protector:

• Protection and moisture for all types of color-treated hair
• Lightweight formula
• Paraben Free

Ion Color Defense Leave-in Protector detangles and balances moisture without weighing hair down. Helps maintain hair color by protecting from heat styling and environmental damage. Leaves hair soft, shiny and manageable.

My Opinion:

The blonde color in my hair has never held up as well as it does now that I was introduced to this tremendous trio. The blonde shampoo is a purple shampoo. The conditioner smells fantastic and detangles wonderfully, and the Leave-On Protector is just another bonus I apply after showering to protect against heat and add another detangling option.

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Category #3: Nails / Make-Up! 

Gelous Base Coat & Out the Door Top Coat

My Opinion:

I was never into doing my nails until I found these 2. I never saw the point. I would do my nails, and within 24 hours, they would be chipping. When using these 2 with a color in between, I can go almost an entire week without having to even touch up my nails. Thanks to this dynamic duo, I now love to do my nails!

Sally Girl Products

My Opinion:

These tiny products are available in nail polish, eyeshadow, lip stick, lip gloss, and so on... The eyeshadows even link together allowing you to make your own palette. I love these for the sticker price. Each one will only set you back a buck. An affordable and easy way to build your make-up collection.

What are your favorite Sally Products?