For the love of documenting and sharing the end results with a world full of supporters, craft blogs have become the new McCall’s pattern. Bloggers tell you exactly what you need, how much, and sometimes even alternatives for hard to find/laying-around-the-house material. The really good posts show you action shots of the production –which is really useful for a novice.
There are two main reasons why DIY projects have become ubiquitous around the internet: one, the desired piece of clothing/jewelry/object isn’t justifiable to the wallet or, two, there’s just something about the store-bought piece that needs to be altered in order for it to be you. As a DIY-er myself, here are some projects I’ve bookmarked and hope to be DIY-ing soon.
Houndstooth Shoes
I am a huge fan of houndstooth (my friends can attest). What I really love about this project is that you can use the perfect fitting shoe and change it into something that will suit your needs or wants. This also gives you the opportunity to upcycle your old scuffed up heels.
iPad Case
There are so many options to carry your tablet around; some bulky, some not enough coverage or maybe you just don’t want to be seen walking around with a couple hundred bucks in your hands. This fully customizable sleeve will disguise that electronic into a lightweight clutch.
Macrame Bracelets
Jewelry is most common on DIY blogs. This one was bookmarked because not only is the gold hardware gorgeous together in the picture, but they’re almost like adult versions of the plastic lanyards we made as a child (yes, even the boys!). And the enclosure reminds me of friendship bracelets, another nostalgic reason.
Bead Embellished Tights
In honor of Doo-Ri leaving her eponymous label, I’m sharing these Doo.Ri inspired tights. These tights can add just the right amount of sparkle to an outfit depending on beads and/or sequins used. In this tutorial, they recommend wearing the tights to apply the beads. Just a warning: be careful!
Homemade Lip Stain
The thing with lip products is that you’re supposed to replace them after a year or two. By the time that’s happened, you’ve either lost it or you’re over the color and you’ve wasted about 75% of the product. This DIY lip stain uses natural ingredients and you get to create your own color in small batches.
I’m always looking for cool new projects to do, whether it’s home decor or reconstructing a top. If you have any, feel free to comment or send them my way at holly@paperclipsociety.com.
Holly Ann has lived on both coasts and even in between. Has a dislike for bacon with a weakness for french fries and pancakes. She is the quiet girl in the back of the room until you meet her.












