Beginners · Creative · Music · Tips

Tips For Learning How To Play Guitar

Posted on by The Quiltress

All of us would want to learn something new once in a while. It could be just a hobby or, like my once-amateur quilting hobby, it could be something we work hard enough at to make an income. No matter what the case is (and in mine, it’s just a hobby), it will certainly not be perfected on the first try. 

One of the most common hobbies that people learn or at least take a stab at is playing musical instruments, and guitar is definitely one of the more popular choices. Learning guitar is not as hard as people may think, but it does take a lot of patience and practice. Are you considering learning how to play? Here are some helpful tips for a beginner. 

1. Pick a guitar

The first step is to have the instrument. Some borrow from their friends or family, but if you are really interested and want to invest in your own instrument, there can be many advantages to having your own. It will be up to you to decide if you want to start off with a cheaper model or purchase a more expensive one. Another thing to consider is what type of guitar you want. Will it be acoustic or electric? Most people start with acoustic guitar since it is larger and has thicker strings, therefore more challenging to play and better for first training your fingers. It’s often advisable for beginners to start with an acoustic guitar and then transition to electric guitar when you’re ready to learn more riffs and other advanced techniques.

2. Learn the chords

Some of us have our favorite bands and guitarists. We get inspired by the way they play, but do not let their high level of skill intimidate you. Even our favorite guitarist has to start somewhere. When learning how to play guitar, knowing and learning how to form and play chords is a good place to dive in. Start out slowly. The secret to having a good technique is proper placement of your fingers when forming chords, so it will better to start out slow and with proper technique than dealing with the consequences of rushing later on. A nice way to practice is to have some songs to play. It will help your fingers form strength with adjustment and transitions. There are some easier songs for beginners for you to start practicing on.

3. Do not avoid the difficult chords

Not all chords will be easy, even some of the basic ones. Remember that all chords are important and need to be played from time to time. This will be a nice reminder that learning guitar is not an easy process. There will surely more difficult moments once you get past learning the chords, but they will come to pass with just a little patience.

4. Practice

Whether the chords are easy or difficult, it is important to practice. Even skilled professionals need practice because it improves their skills and techniques. As a beginner, that will be also the case. You do not have to practice for full days at a time. Even just 10 to 30 minutes can be enough to refresh you. This will also help you develop good playing habits and you’ll get used to it before you know it.

5. Take a break

Of course, it is also important not to pressure yourself too much. Have a break and once in a while and either listen to music or watch videos to get inspiration. This will not only help to get your mind at ease, but it will be also a great way to keep your technique in check.

Practice makes perfect, but sometimes it is easier said than done. Always remember that to learn something new requires patience and determination. It will be over once you give up on it. So, always be prepared and you will be great before you know it. 

Fun · Quilt Making

Some Of My Favorite Places To Quilt

Posted on by The Quiltress

I absolutely love making quilts. That’s probably obvious, I have this entire blog set up to talk about quilt making. My studio is well set up at home with everything I’d ever need to crank out my latest creation, but I’ll admit sometimes it gets a bit lonely, stale, or even a little old.

From time to time I like to change it up and take my projects on the road. Here are some of my favorite places to quilt outside of my studio.

At The Beach

When most people think of the beach, they probably think of sand, sun, and swimming. I think these things too, but most of all I think of what a great place it is to quilt. I love getting up early in the morning and making my way to the beach before it fills up with the crowds. I set up my spot and get to work as soon as I can. It’s best to get most of the work done in the morning.

There are a few drawbacks to the beach, but I take it with a grain of salt. If it’s a windy day, it becomes quite frustrating trying to quilt. In such cases I’ll just call it an early day, or I’ll scrap the idea all together. Another issue is that by noon it’s often getting quite hot. If that is the case, usually the beach gets crowded and noisy too. Nonetheless, when the conditions are right the beach is a beautiful place to get some quilting done.

By The Fire

There’s something so calming about quilting by a fire. Whether that’s indoors by a fireplace or outdoors by a bonfire. During the cold winter months I love to visit my parent’s house when they have a fire going. We can spend hours just sitting by the fire, having a nice conversation, and quilting together.

When I’m on my own at home I don’t have the luxury of a real fireplace, my home isn’t set up for it. I do have a contemporary electric fireplace though which is quite nice to look at and can put off a good amount of heat too. Sometimes I’ll even play fire sounds from YouTube to make it seem even more like the real thing. It may sound goofy but its true! This is a great substitute if you, like me, don’t have a fireplace of your own.

On A Plane

I love traveling so so much. Seeing the world gives me so much perspective on my own life, and makes me value it so much more. Plus, just having exciting trips to look forward to throughout the year is just one of many things that keeps me going on a day to day basis.

Aside from the excitement of travel though, plane trips give me a long, extended period with not much to do but quilt or look out the window. If you know me, then you’ll know that quilting takes the cake in this side-by-side. Some of my greatest quilts have been made on a plane. Of course it requires a little prep work, otherwise you’ll make a mess and have the flight attendants and your neighbors at least mildly displeased (I’ve done that before too!).

So where are your favorite places to quilt? I’d love to hear any ideas you may have. Have you quilted at the beach, by the fire, or on the plane? How did it go for you? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!

How To · Quilt Making · Tips

How To Give Quilting Fabrics a Worn Appearance

Posted on by The Quiltress

Fabrics with a worn appearance have been highly desired by consumers and fashionistas alike for over a decade now, and it doesn’t look like the trend is going away any time soon. When you’re in need of some worn fabrics for your next quilting project there are a number of approaches you can take. Today I’d like to discuss a few of my favorite techniques that I use in my own quilting projects.

It’s important to keep in mind that the amount of wear that you desire can vary greatly from project to project, so you’ll have to gauge this when you embark on your very own journey. Before I get on rambling, let’s jump into some of the better ways you can incorporate worn fabric into your quilting.

It May Seem Obvious, But…

If you have an assortment of heavily used clothing that you’ve been saving for a project of a future day, then this can be an absolute goldmine. Torn jeans, heavily worn flannels, and well-loved corduroys can be a great source of linens for your upcoming project. If you can’t come up with your own there are still a few options you can work with.

First, try reaching out to some of your friends who are also quilting hobbyists or professionals. They may have some worn fabrics on hand that they are willing to part with for a reasonable price – or, if you’re lucky, completely free. It’s always good to get help from a friend when you can, and this is why it’s important to always help others when they are in need as well.

If this turns up empty, your next best bet is to check out used clothing centers such as the Salvation Army and Goodwill. The benefit of these outlets is that you might have a better selection of fabrics to choose from. You’ll have to pay a bit of money which may seem annoying when compared to free fabrics, but it won’t be too bad.

What About Making Your Own?

There are any number of reasons why you might want to make your own pre-worn fabrics instead. By going this route you’ll have full control of the fabrics being used – including the materials, the thickness, the colors, the patterns, the whole nine yards. You’ll also have the peace of mind that the fabric you’re using will not have been worn by anyone else, which is almost a must if you’re selling the end product to someone else. You’ll have to pay significantly more in most cases, but most likely it’s going to be worth it.

The main thing you’ll need to do once you’ve chosen your fabrics is to simulate wear and tear. Conceptually you can think about the different ways that clothes would wear out simply from natural use.

One of the primary mechanisms of wear is actually a result of washing and drying the linens in washing and drying machines. You can start with this to get a very light wear, but to get a more aggressive wear it will take a lot of cycles. You’re better off taking more aggressive matters actions to speed up the process.

One great way of doing so is to make use of a pressure washer. This will simulate the conditions of a washing machine cycle, but can be made much more aggressive. To start, lay your fabric out on a firm and rough surface, such as concrete, and make sure that it is thoroughly anchored down. The pressure washer will be exerting a lot of force. Then, fill your pressure washer reservoir with a compatible detergent in similar strength as to what you would use in the washing machine. Then you can start spraying the fabric with the pressure washer and taking a look at the results you get. Start with a more gentle nozzle, and if you need more wear when you are done you can move up to the more aggressive nozzles. Don’t start out too strong because once the fabric has too much wear, you can’t go back. If you don’t have a pressure washer, it may be best to borrow one from a friend as they can be a bit pricey. If you want to buy one anyway, you can check out any number of websites to find the best electric power washer for the job.

Another option would be to get the fabric damp and tightly wrap it around a sports ball, such as a soccer ball or a basketball. Then you can bounce these off of similarly hard and rough surfaces until you get the desired amount of wear and tear. There are chemical techniques you can use as well, but if you can get the desired amount of wear and tear from physical techniques, it will result in a longer lasting product.

These are just a few of the ways you can get worn fabric for your next quilting job. Try them out and see how they work for you!

Creative · How To · Quilt Making

Tips on How to Quilt the Perfect Blanket for a Futon

Posted on by The Quiltress

If it is your first time trying to make a quilt, you may feel like the task is too tough for you. However, the truth is that with the right tools and guidance, it is one of the easiest and most satisfying tasks. When it is your first time, you want to start with a smaller project. For instance, instead of making the quilt for a bed, you can start with a smaller piece of furniture such as a futon. Here are some important guidelines which will help make the process easy for you.

Gather the appropriate materials

The success of your quilting job will depend on how well-prepared you are for it. You will need the following tools and materials for a successful quilting job:

· Fabric: Take time and choose a number of appropriate fabrics to mix and match and come up with the pattern you desire.

· Batting: This is the layer of insulation which you will insert between the fabrics so that the quilt can be warm. Select the batting fabric which will be warm and durable for your projects.

· Thread: when choosing an appropriate thread for your quilting work, it is important to remember that the higher the weight number, the thinner the thread. Choose the thickness whose stitches will last.

· Cutting tools: You will need a variety of tools for the cutting job. The most basic is the rotary cutter and scissors. If you want to keep your fabric scissors sharp, avoid cutting anything else with them.

· Quilting ruler: this is the item which will help you determine the shapes and sizes of the small patterns that will make the quilt. A small square ruler will be great for a beginner in quilting.

· Cutting mat: you will need one whenever you are using your rotary cutter. This will protect surfaces such as tables from getting cutting scratches.

· Sewing tools: some of the sewing tools that you will need for your quilting work include pins and clips and other materials that hold the fabrics together for cutting and sewing.

· Sewing machine or needles: these are going to be used for the joinery.

There are a variety of other smaller tools that will make your work easier, but if you have these basics with you, you can easily start the sewing.

Picking a pattern

Part of picking the pattern should be done before getting the fabric because the pattern you have in mind will determine what you buy. When starting out, you can go with simple patterns. For instance, simple cutout triangles will be ideal for a simple quilt pattern. Another shape that is common is half rectangles. In short, pick shapes that will not give you a hard time when it comes to the joinery.

Sewing the seams

After choosing a pattern, you will cut your fabric into the pieces which will make up the final pattern. When all the pieces are ready, the next natural step will be sewing together the seams. This is the most crucial part of the quilt making process because it determines whether your final designs will have puckers, wavy and unmatched bits or other weaknesses. Teach yourself how to make a straight stitch seam ahead of this process to make your work easier.

Basting the quilt

After you have sewn together the small patterns which will make the quilt, the next step in the process is basting the quilt. This step will stop the final product from bunching up or getting distorted. Th baste the quilt, you will need:

· The quilt fabric that you have already joined

· The batting

· A large flat area for the basting

The simplest way is to use fabric spray to hold all the pieces together as you sew.

Quilting

This is the final part of the process and fortunately, the simplest. With the fabric basted and joined together, you can go under the sewing machine and make whichever quilting pattern you want ranging from the simple straight pattern, zigzags to everything else that you can think of. Note that the thread which you will use for this part of the process should be a good contrast with the fabric so that the design can pop.

In those few steps, you will have an awesome new quilt for your futon. Contemporary futons provide exceptional comfort, but they are pieces of furniture that are excellent candidates for infusing your own style. A well-made quilt will not only keep the user warm when relaxing on their futon but also make a fashion and interior décor statement. Start with simple quilting patterns, and as time goes by, you can choose more complex patterns.

Beginners · How To · Quilt Making · Tips

101: The Making of Patch Quilts

Posted on by The Quiltress

Patch quilt is known for its traditional way of telling a particular life story that is sewn together with other types of fabrics and form it as an object. This is an essential kind of material because it is attached to personal values and beliefs. That is why, if you belong to a family of quilt makers, then it’s time for you to start thinking what kind of story would you like to sew for your future children to learn about you.

Design

The design is usually geometric and imaginative. Patchwork is created depending on the kind of message that you’d like to tell and this needs ample time to finish the patch quilt.

Layering

Usually, a patch quilt comprises of three layers, and these are the patchwork quilt top, wadding, backing material. These sheets are stitched together either through a machine or by hand and form a quilt. The quilting process would depend on how you want things to be done. If you plan to have it patterned would be a great idea to make the patch quilt presentable.

Making a patch quilt isn’t that hard to achieve as long as you have all the necessary materials needed for the particular project. To make sure that you have gathered all materials, here are the following things that you need to make patch quilts.

A cutting knife
Rotary knife
Batting (this is a filling that goes in the quilt)
Scissors
Pins and safety pins
Needle and thread
Sewing machine
Pattern- this can either be inspired by a design that you like, or you want to follow the traditional pattern.

Procedure

1. Decide a design- it is crucial that you have a plan to follow through. In this way, you will know what type of fabrics and threads you’re going to use. As soon as you have the design, start dividing the pieces of fabrics into 15 to 30cm squares. This is called “blocks” that are made up of smaller parts. Keep in mind, working with each block is manageable compared to doing the entire quilt.

2. Washing and ironing the fabric is necessary and then cut it according to the paper templates that you have prepared. Make sure that you allow at least 6mm of extra space per square for your seaming time. After you have cut everything, lay it on the floor and check for the patterns.

3. Start sewing. Gather two pieces first and then sew it in a running stitch style. Sew together the pieces up one side.

4. Sew together the rest of the pieces and make sure that you have formed one block which means forming it into a square. Once it’s done, sew it again to the pattern of the quilt. Do not forget to iron to form the seams.

5. Batting should do after you have stitched the first top layer. The batting should be of the same size as to what you have started. Choose the color of the thread, and if you want uniformity, you can do the option of using the same colors.

6. to add a finished look, the binding should be polished neatly, and seams are protected.

After you have done everything, simply iron it again and fold as to how you want it to be presented.

Creative

Boost Your Creativity with Journaling

Posted on by The Quiltress

Journaling is a great way to increase your creativity. Journaling can be done in many different ways, from writing about your day to doodling and sketching. Whatever you choose to write about or draw, journaling will help you become more creative. In this article we’ll explore the benefits of journaling and how it can improve your creativity!

Words and images are powerful tools for expressing your creativity. When you journal, you have the opportunity to explore all kinds of ideas and emotions. You can experiment with different writing styles and artwork, which can help you find new ways of expressing yourself.

It can be a way of scrapbooking your life, or it can be a place to explore your emotions and feelings.

Journaling is also an opportunity for you try out new drawing styles . You may find that the process of journaling helps improve your creativity in other areas as well!  It’s not always easy to come up with ideas when creating artwork. By writing down what you want to create, you can come up with new ideas more easily.

Journaling also helps you connect with your inner voice. By writing about your thoughts and feelings, you can get to know yourself better. This can help you become more creative, as you’ll be able to tap into your innermost desires and dreams.

Finally, journaling helps you stay focused on your goals. When you have a clear goal in mind, it’s easier to come up with creative ideas that will help you achieve it. By writing down your goals and dreams, you’ll be more likely to follow through with them.

So what are you waiting for? Start journaling today and see how it enhances your creativity!

Creative · How To

How To Knit A Blanket For Your Dog’s Crate

Posted on by The Quiltress

Are you the one, who wants to knit a blanket for the dog’s kennel to make the pet feel comfortable and warm in the winter season? Have you ever knit any blanket, either for dog’s crate or for anything else? If you are doing knitting for the first time, then you are at the right platform. In the forthcoming paragraphs, we are going to elaborate a few tips regarding knitting the blanket for the dog’s crate.

KNOW ABOUT KNITTING TIPS

Well, having a dog at home is very lucky. A dog is like your family member, who usually gets in touch with the other family members very easily. One should take care of their pet very well. Make sure that, the pet should feel comfortable and happy at your place. So, one should knit a blanket for the dog, so that he will feel better in his crate. To know the tips, and let’s get started with the knitting as soon as possible:

SELECT THE SIZE OF THE BLANKET

The foremost thing one should do, when it comes to making the blanket for dog’s crate is that, selects the size of the blanket first. Yes, when you will select the size, then only you can decide, how much wool you need to make the blanket, and other necessary things too. There are three sizes available; the first one is small, which is of “24-48”, the second one is “30-50”, and the last third one is of “50-60”. If you are making the blanket for yourself, make sure to check out the size of the kennel to understand, which size is perfect. If in case, you are making a blanket for someone else’s crate, then ask them for sending you the measurements surely; so that you can make the right piece for their dog.

CHOOSE YOUR YARN

Now, it is time to select the yarn. The dog is also a part of your family now. He used to be with you all time, day, and night. Treat them also as your family member. Try to take care of them also like you do you and your other family members. You should select the soft and perfect yarn so that the dog will feel comfortable and happy. The yarn quality should be good so that the dog will feel soothing inside. Some yarn qualities are so harsh, as it can cause rashes and irritation to the skin of the dog. That is why; make sure to choose a perfect yarn quality to make the pet skin feel soothing inside. Choose the yarn, which keeps the security locks.

COLLECT ALL YOUR ITEMS WITH YOU

Make sure, when you sit to knit the blanket for your dog’s crate, keep all the things with you. The reason behind it is that again and again, you cannot walk away to take different things. That is why, keep all the things with you earlier, so that while knitting you will not get any sort of problem. Keep the secure locks, so that the blanket will stay for long.

Follow the above-demonstrated tips for sure to help yourself while knitting for dog’s crate to make the best one out.

Art

How To Make Pottery At Home

Posted on by The Quiltress

One of the ways to relieve stress is to do some art. It helps you to do something with your hands and also keep your mind off things by concentrating on something else. The problem at times is getting started. It seems intimidating and quite hard. But it is really not. You do not have to be an expert to do art. It will be a great hobby and as said before, it is a good stress reliever. So if you are just starting, do not pressure about it but instead, enjoy the process of it. Besides, it is not bad to have your own homemade art in your house.

Most arts and crafts can be done in the comfort of your home. That includes pottery which sounds impossible because of the materials that will be needed. But with these basic ideas, it can be done:

1. Selecting a Room

The first thing you will need to do is to pick a room around your house where is best to work. Not only that but also consider the materials such as the clay which should be stored in the right place. Be sure that it is also easy to clean and has access to water. Then, of course, you would need some furniture such as tables and cabinets that are sturdy and durable. 

2. Knowing the Right Clay

In pottery, clay is the most important material because, without it, you will not able to form anything. Because you are at home, it is important to choose the right clay, and it could be a special kind. Usually, the types of clay used at home are oven-bake, polymer, or air-dry. Then also there is also the glaze, and you should find something that will be matched with the clay.

3. Have the Right Tools

Because you are doing it at home, you would need the tools. You do not have to get all of it but what matters is having the basic ones that will get you started. First is a potter’s wheel which is available in stores in different sizes. Be sure to choose that will fit your space and meets your needs. There are also electric ones available though it will be less efficient and also not suitable for beginners. Another tool is the throwing rib which is used for shaping and smoothing the pot. Then a versatile tool called potter’s needle that is used in many ways such as cutting, piercing, scoring, etc. Another cutting tool is the cutting wire used for cutting the base away from the wheel. Then the last one is the kiln which is used for firing the clay. They are quite expensive, so you could either invest in one or rent. 

How to do pottery

Here are the basic steps in doing pottery at home:

  1. Shape and mold them in the potter’s wheel.
  2. If you are not planning to use a kiln, let it dry. You should have a proper place for this. 
  3. If you are planning to have it in a fire, place it in a kiln.
  4. After that, you can decorate your work by painting.
Clothing

Fitting Clothes For Your Body Shape

Posted on by The Quiltress

One of the best things to take off stress is to shop. It does not matter if you are doing it physically or online, but there is just something about gaining something.

The problem at times though is that you tend to do not know if it is really right for you. This is a good example of clothes. There is a variety out there, and some will certainly look good. But even if does look good, it seems not right for you while to others it is. The reason for this is because we have different body shapes and with that, not all clothes will fit you and not all styles will suit you. So it does not matter if something is on-trend, it is still your choice if you will follow it or not. Besides, not all trends will suit everybody, and that is why some would have their clothes a custom design for it to fit them.

So, what are these body shapes and what will be the clothes right for them?

1. Apple

An apple-shaped body consists of having the upper body heavier than the lower body. It is the reason why they would feel the weight would gather around the midriff, and most of them have broad shoulders and a bigger bust line. The right way for them to dress up is to have clothes that do not highlight the upper body. An example is avoiding skinny jeans or leggings then baggy tops because it will make the shape visible. Instead, wear something balanced to avid that.

2. Pear

A pear-shaped body is quite the opposite of the apple shape. The lower part is bigger and heavier. Balance is also the key to this one, or they could also wear something that will enhance the lower part of their body. They can also wear something that will bring the illusion that they are hourglass-shaped if it is done right. 

3. Hourglass

This is the body shape that is well proportioned and balanced. It has a well-defined waistline. Because of that, this is the type that will have no problem in choosing clothes, but it will be great for them to choose something that will highlight the outline of their curves. They will just have to find clothes that are well balanced.

4. Rectangle

It is the body shape that is balanced from shoulders to hips. It is straightforward and is like the hourglass but without the defined waistline. They are to wear something that will define the lower part, and tops that will add something to the upper body like sleeveless and sweetheart lines.

5. Inverted Triangle

This body shape is also called the athletic shape because it is the type that is most athletic-looking of all. The shoulders are broad with this type. Because of that, the hips should be defined and have to be balanced with the shoulders. The best for them would be wearing something minimalistic for the top part.

Creative

How To Be Creative In Business

Posted on by The Quiltress

When we think someone being creative, the first thing that comes to mind is those who are good at art. Well, it is not wrong, but it is not always the case. Creativity can be found everywhere it could be with teaching, so the class can pay attention. It could also be with simple things such as doing chores, and how to make it easy. But one of the aspects that creativity is involved in the business.

If you have a business, creativity is a must, so that it will last. We know that business is not always the same because times are always changing, so you have to be wise about it. So, how will you be creative when it comes to business?

1. Be Open-Minded

We all know that as time passes by, everything changes and that includes the trends. So if something new comes up, always be open and ready to know and even try. Of course, you do not have to follow it always. It will still depend upon your decisions and style. But that does not mean you have to be always close-minded with them too. It just means that even if you are into traditional, you should also embrace some change or else you will be left behind by your competitors.

2. Always Learn Something

As trends are always changing, you have to be on the lookout. You should be always fast when it comes to ideas about them. A way that is studying, researching, and being aware. The internet is a great place to gather those. You can have alerts or even join a group for it. Be aware also of the current events that may affect your business. You can also read books and articles about it. When it comes to business, you should be always on the know to know that you are on the right path.

3. Strive For Excellence and Contentment

When it comes to business, mediocrity is not an option. You will always have to strive to be excellent to be ahead of your competitors. This also means that you are doing your best not only for yourself but also for your consumers. But that does not mean it has to be perfect all the time. It is alright to strive for more but also learn to be content with what you have because if you focus on perfecting everything, you might get stressed about it and will not enjoy your achievements. 

4. Take A Break

When it comes to much for you, it is always wise to step back and have a break. You can go on vacation or just simply do some things for yourself like eating out or just doing some of your hobbies. This way, your mind will not be full of worries that are a hindrance to thinking correctly. It is said that clearing up your mind will help in gaining new ideas, so pay attention to your surroundings. Sometimes we tend to be too distracted in focusing that we do not notice that some of the solutions are just around. 

Household

How To Make An Old House Look New

Posted on by The Quiltress

Having your own house will be a great achievement for you. It does not matter if you are the one who has it built or already had. The important thing is it is yours, and you can have new beginnings in it.

If it is old and used, it does not mean it will stay as it is. You can always make it new and yours. 

1. Renovate Rooms

This will be one of the solutions if you want some things to change within your house. Maybe you would want to merge two rooms into one or have a bigger space for your living room. You can even have additional bathrooms or bedrooms. That is what renovation is for. You can also have it styled in ways you want. You could hire a contractor to help you with it. You should also do some research about the materials and supplies that will be used. This is also the time you will need to choose wall colors and flooring and it will be beneficial to seek some advice from experts and your contractor what will be the right ones and not just of your own preference. But sometimes, you will be content with the way rooms are, but that does not mean there are none to be fixed. With age, some of the walls might need some repairing or repainting and once that is done, they will be good as new.

2. Upgrade Commodity

The house will surely already have outlets and switches and plates. But make sure to have them checked by electricians first because it might be defected because of oldness and needed to be updated to go with the time and new technology. Other things that needed to be checked are alarms, heaters, and even the fireplace. Some of them might still be in great condition, but they still needed to be upgraded. It is not just for the reason to be trendy, but this is important for your safety. Faulty commodities might be hazardous and at times bad for your health. Other things that are needed to be upgraded are some of the hardware like doorknobs and taps. It will surely have a great effect on your home because it might take easier. In addition to that, it will also give your house a modern look and not antique-like.

3. Add Something New

It is not all about upgrading and changing, you can also add something to your house that will make it look good and look new. A very good example is having modern furniture that will also make your house look modern. Then you can add in some decor that can be simple and personal. You can also add your preferred curtains and rugs that will complement the color and your furniture. You can also add in some lighting that will brighten your space more. You can add in table and floor lamps. You can also replace some of the fixtures for a more modern one.

Art

How To Start Oil Painting For Beginners

Posted on by The Quiltress

Some people would want to have a hand and try to make art. It is something that can make your mind at ease and is a very good stress reliever. The problem with it is that it is quite intimidating. When you look at other’s creations, it is inspiring but at the same time frightening to get par with them. As a beginner, you should not think that way. Everyone had a start even those artists. 

One of the forms of art that people would like to try is painting. There are many types of it but the most popular that we see at museums are oil paints, and we know a lot of artists from it. As said before, you should not compare yourself with them. Remember that everybody has a start and their own style. You can be inspired while developing your own. If you are just starting with oil painting, here are some tips for you:

1. Know the Materials

Every art is different but has its supplies no matter what it is. The oil painting has a lot of them. The first thing on the list is, of course, the paint and as the name suggests, it is painted with oil in it. Most commonly mixed in is the linseed oil to add more pigment. Then you will also need brushes and a palette to put on your paint. You will also need a surface to paint on and the most popular would be a canvas, and you could start with that. Then, of course, you would need something to clean your brushes with like a paper towel and even a thinner.

2. Start with a Few

As said before, oil painting has a lot of supplies, and they are not cheap. It will be wise for you to not get too overboard with the materials. Instead, start with the few basic brushes. As for the pallet, you can also start with few colors. This way, you could also learn how to mix them to have different colors. It is advised to have the primary colors and then a white and even a brown. You can start painting even with just those colors. 

3. Know the Techniques

There are different techniques when it comes to oil painting, and you can try them all in order to have your own and know what you are most comfortable with. Some of the techniques include:

  1. Scumbling – it involves producing a broken color effect by dragging a dry brush all over the canvas.
  2. Alla prima – it is also called as wet on wet and is a technique wherein paint is applied even if the other layers are not yet dried.
  3. Glazing – this where glazes are applied on dried top layers.
  4. Chiaroscuro – it is how light and dark are balanced in the painting.
  5. Impasto – it is adding texture to the painting
  6. Grisaille – is a painting that is monochrome which uses gray tones.
  7. Blocking in – as the name suggests, general colors and shapes are blocked.
  8. Blending in – it is when two colors were mixed while wet making them blend.
  9. Oiling out – it is when at the lower layers of the painting, the oil sinks which makes the top layers less vital.

Additional Tips:

  1. Once you learn about the techniques, always practice until you discover your own. Then after you have discovered it, master it.
  2. Famous oil painter Bob Ross always advised to keep the brushes clean, and it is important to do so. This will avoid having a mess with both your space and also your painting.
Clothing

Making Your Own Clothes Vs. Buying

Posted on by The Quiltress

Clothing nowadays is more than essential. We still need it, but what we have in our closets is more than what we need. That is because it is also becoming a lifestyle. The way you dress determines who you are: your personality, your status, and even your interests. Because of that, buying clothes became a lot of expensive than we think.

Have you tried dressmaking or sewing your own clothes? Some people are really into DIY these days, and clothes are no different. But will there be a difference in making and buying your own clothes?

Buying Clothes

For some, shopping for clothes is not just only because it is a necessity. As said before, clothes had become a lifestyle and buying them is like a therapy for some people because it does reduce stress to try and have something new. Sure, it will become stressful to spend a long time at a mall especially if there is a sale wherein there will be a larger crowd, but it does feel good to get your hands on to something you really like. Then, at this time, there is also online shopping and is becoming big. There is no hassle of going to a mall with the crowds, an all you need to do is wait for it. But the problem with it is that sometimes, the one you ordered seems to be different in person than the one you see online, so it is not that liable.

Making Clothes

The first thing you will need to have for you to make clothes is the skill. You should learn even just the basics of it and even better if you become an expert for it. Once you have learned about it, it will be a lot easier for you to make clothes.

Sewing your own clothes has a lot of benefits. The first will be that it is cheaper. You get to choose the type of fabric that will be used then also the add ons and accessories that will be added. You get to design it according to your taste. The fitting will not also be a problem because you get to do it yourself. It will be your choice how will it be, and it is also easy to adjust. In addition to that, you will be able to customize it and make it as unique as you can. One of the reasons why many inclined to make their own clothes is because of this. The clothes that you will see in stores tend to be repetitive. It would have additional cost if you want something to be customized, so why not do it on your own? You will also be able to practice and develop your creativity because of this.

The downside of this is you need more time. If you are a busy person and only want this as a hobby, it will be hard because it consumes so much time. Not only that, but you will also need a lot of resources and supplies such as fabrics, threads, and other accessories.

Conclusion

Both have its pros and cons, but it will still be up to you to decide. If you want to try dressmaking, go for it. You can always have it started as a hobby, and you will see how it will go from there.

Creative

How To Be More Creative In Writing

Posted on by The Quiltress

Being creative can be shown and taken out in many ways. It can be through painting or crafting. It can also be through writing. Some will have it with music. During times at school, it is actually practiced and being developed. There are arts and crafts and some creative writing. Through an early age, they would be able to discover their gifts or develop it.

You can still do it as an adult though. It is said that it is never too late, so why not start now? If you are thinking of writing, here are some ways you can develop and get it interesting:

1. Have some exercises

You can write some short stories or essays every time you would have an idea. If you are having a hard time to come up with one, you can have some prompts. There are various categories for it, and you can have some books or even just look up on the internet. It will be up to you if you want more challenges such as word count and time. But the important matter is that through this, you can develop your style and even your vocabulary.

2. Read more

For you to have more ideas about different things and style writing, you should read more. It does not matter if it is a short story, essay, novel, or even articles, what matters is you have broadened your horizon. You should not also stick to one topic or genre. You will be able to know your interest and would be able to develop your own style because of these different ideas. In addition to that, your imagination will also be developed. 

3. Write it down

Wherever you go, it is a great idea to have a notebook with you. This way, when inspiration strikes, you will be able to write it down. Not as a whole per se, but the idea of it. It could happen anywhere. It could be while doing some chores or during a vacation or while having a night out or eating outside. It could also be while doing simple things like cooking or watching TV or listening to music. No matter how and when always be ready to have it jot down so that you will not be able to forget them and may even start right away while the inspiration is still fresh.

4. Always learn something

It is said before that as a writer, you should always read. This is a good way for you not to only learn about different styles but also learning something in general. It is not only through reading. It can be by watching movies, shows, or documentaries or even by listening. You can just go out and observe your surroundings, and you will be able to learn something new. As for improving your writing, what will help is for you to attend some lectures or workshops that teach different kinds of techniques. You may also meet other writers that will give advice and even some critique. The endpoint for this does not stick with what you know and what you used to, but be open with new opportunities and insights.

Household

How To Make Your House Look Nicer

Posted on by The Quiltress

Home is said to be the place where you belong. That will say much about your house too. Truly, the things that you own will show some of your personality. If a person likes things to be simple, they would go for things like. Sometimes, people with the free spirit would go with bolder patterns and colors. But no matter what category you are in, it is important to have them nice.

And as said before, your house is one of your belongings. You do not have to spend too much to have it look nice. With these tips, your house will truly be your home.

1. Be Clutter-Free

It is said that clutter is one of the sources of stress. Because of that, one of the important things to do is to make your house clutter-free. That way, even with all the stress you experienced outside, it would go away once you have gone home. To do this, you just need to have some proper storage with your stuff and will be very helpful for you to be organized. This way, you will also be less stressed about misplacing your stuff. It is also not about clutter but also having your house clean. If you think you are too busy for that, you can hire someone or have a schedule for general cleaning at least twice a month. 

2. Do Not Be Bare

Another way to have your house look nice is by the furniture and color you will add to it. You can make things simple but not boring. You can have your rooms painted with your preferred colors and comfortable furniture that are not only functional but also makes your room look good. And of course, to make it more fascinating, decors like artworks, sculptures, etc. are to be added. If you want your room to have more life and color, putting in plants is the answer. You can also make it more personal by hanging your pictures or some things you have created like artworks, sculptures, or any other crafts. Shelves are can also have dual-purpose and not just for holding your book collection, but you can also put some decorative statements on it. If your walls and furniture are in neutral colors, you can add in a pop of color by your accessories such as pillows, curtains, rugs, etc. that are bold in color.  

3. Lighten Up

To make your house to be seen, lighting is required. During the day, having natural lighting as much as possible will be great. It can also be beneficial for you because sunlight is a great source of vitamin D. But of course, it is still important to have lighting fixtures to be used during the night. Aside from the fixed lightings, be sure that your rooms have enough tables or floor lamps to illuminate them. They can also serve as additional decor to your house. If you want to, you can also add some fairy lights to have some romantic feel.