| How to Sew a Table Runner Posted: 29 Oct 2019 05:00 PM PDT A beautiful table runner can really make your table arrangements stand out or lend a pop of color. Learning how to make your own runner also puts you in charge of choosing your own fabric, colors, sizes, and decorative elements. Start by sewing a classic rectangular table runner before adding piping, cording, or fringe. You'll soon have unique table runners for every occasion! [Edit]Cutting and Pinning the Fabric - Determine how long and wide you want the runner to be. Decide which table you want to use the runner on and consider if you want the runner to hang over the ends of the table. Place a measuring tape or yardstick across the table to visualize how big you want the runner to be. Then, write down your measurements and add to the length and width numbers.[1]
- For example, you might want a runner, so you'd write down after adding the to each measurement.
- Lay your fabric flat and mark the measurements on it with a fabric pencil. Spread your choice of fabric on a work surface and lay the measuring tape or yardstick across it. Use a fabric pencil to mark the measurements you made.[2]
- You can use any type of fabric you like. Keep in mind that heavier fabrics will make the runner lay flat.
- The fabric pencil will dissolve in the washing machine.
- Use a sharp pair of shears to cut 2 identical rectangles. Slowly cut along the lines you just marked on the fabric in order to make equal pieces. Try to cut in smooth lines so the raw edges aren't too jagged.[3]
- If you prefer, place a cutting mat under the fabric and use a rotary cutter to cut the fabric.
- Stack the fabric and pin the edges of the pieces in place. Ensure that the right sides of the fabric are facing each other and the wrong side of the fabric is facing you. Then, insert sewing pins around the edges of the fabric so they go through both pieces.[4]
- Stagger the sewing pins so they're about apart.
[Edit]Sewing the Runner - Use a straight stitch to sew around the edges of the runner. Leave a seam allowance as you sew from the first pin all the way around the runner. Stop sewing when you reach the last pin. This will leave a gap that's big enough for your hand to fit through.[5]
- It's important to leave the gap so you can push the corners out when you turn the fabric right side out.
- Trim the excess fabric from each corner. Instead of leaving each corner a sharp 90-degree angle, use your scissors to trim the excess point from each. Ensure that you don't cut across your stitches.
- Trimming the corners will eliminate excess bulk so your corners can become pointy.[6]
- Turn the runner right side out and push each corner out. Reach your hand into the gap you left on the side of the runner and grab the fabric. Pull the runner until it's right side out. Then, take something pointy, such as a chopstick or knitting needle, slide it into the runner, and gently push it into each corner.[7]
- Don't push too hard as you form the corners or you might damage your stitches.
- Straight stitch the gap closed using a sewing machine. Tuck the unfinished hem of the gap inside the runner and use your machine to straight stitch across it. If you'd like an extra durable runner, straight stitch around the perimeter again.
- If you stitch around the perimeter 1 more time, leave a seam allowance.
- Iron the runner before you put it on the table. Read the care instructions for the fabric you used so you know what temperature to turn your iron to. Place the runner on your ironing board and press it with the iron so it lays flat.
- It's also important to learn the care instructions for the fabric so you know how to wash and dry the table runner.
[Edit]Trying Variations - Use quilting squares or remnants to make a patchwork runner. If you like the rustic look of a quilt, sew squares or fabric scraps onto a piece of batting. Ensure that the batting is the size you want the runner to be. Then, sew the fabric onto the batting and hem the edges.[8]
- You can make the patchwork runner as complicated or as simple as you like. For a simple one, keep your squares or remnants large so there's less to sew.
- Cut the ends of the runner before you sew it to create points. Instead of cutting your fabric pieces into large rectangles, taper both ends before you finish the edges so they come to triangular points.[9]
- For an extra decorative touch, attach a pom pom to the end of each point.
- Attach tassels to pointed ends for an elegant runner. Make 2 tassels using thin cords, yarn, or embroidery thread. Then, stitch each tassel onto the pointed end of the runner so they dangle below the fabric.[10]
- If you don't want to make the runner pointed at the ends, you could attach several tassels across each flat end instead.
- Add piping to the edges for a decorative look. Remove your sewing machine's presser foot and replace it with a piping foot. The piping foot has 2 grooves underneath it that will hold your piping in place as you stitch it around the edges of your runner.[11]
- Piping is also called cording.
- Use a different fabric to make a border that stands out. To add color or texture to your runner, choose another fabric that complements the main body of the runner. Then, cut the fabric into strips that are as long as each side of the runner. You can make them as wide as you'd like the borders to be before you straight stitch them along the edges.[12]
- To make a thin border, cut the strips around wide. For a wide border on a large runner, the strips could be closer to .
- For an extra colorful border, use a few different colors for each strip of fabric.
- For a quick, lightweight runner, cut just 1 piece of fabric to size and serge the edges.
- You can make a runner for a round table, but it will lay better if it's for a large table with less of a curve.
- For a winter table runner, consider using flannel.
[Edit]Warnings - Although you can make no-sew table runners by ironing fusible bonding web between the fabric, the fusing can disintegrate as you wash the runner.
[Edit]Things You'll Need - Fabric
- Thread
- Scissors
- Sewing Machine
- Iron and ironing board
- Ruler or measuring tape
[Edit]References |
| How to Organize Your Jewelry Box Posted: 29 Oct 2019 09:00 AM PDT Wearing jewelry is a fun way to accessorize an outfit, but if you just throw it all into a jewelry box, you'll eventually end up with a jumbled mess. Large items get tangled together, smaller pieces get hidden at the bottom of the pile, and pairs of earrings get separated. Luckily, you can make it easy to see all of your jewelry and keep everything together by organizing your jewelry box! [Edit]Sorting out Your Jewelry - Empty out your jewelry box. The best way to start organizing your jewelry box is to empty it completely. This will allow you to see everything you have and sort it out, so when you put it back into the box it will be organized.
- You may want to lay down a towel on your dresser or table before you empty out your jewelry box so that neither your jewelry nor dresser gets scratched.
- Untangle your jewelry if it's knotted together. Necklaces, bracelets, and long earrings can easily get tangled in a jewelry box. You may be able to separate them by hand, but if you're having a hard time getting knots out of a chain, try dabbing a little baby oil onto the knot to help loosen it.[1]
- You may need to slide a safety pin or needle into the center of the knot, especially if it's a very thin chain.[2]
- Group similar items of jewelry together. Place all your necklaces in one area, then all of your bracelets in another, then your rings, and so on. How you sort your jewelry beyond that will depend on what makes the most sense to you.[3]
- Some people prefer to sort their pieces by color, for instance, while others group their jewelry by the style or the type of metal.
- Use a jewelry box organizer to keep pieces separated. You can purchase organizers for almost any size jewelry box online or at a craft store. Look for an organizer that will hold jewelry of different sizes.[4]
- For instance, depending on the size of your jewelry box, the organizer should have longer different-sized slots, compartments, and even drawers.
- Make your own organizer out of strips of cardboard if you're crafty. You can make your own partitions by cutting pieces of cardboard into the shapes you want. Cut strips of cardboard to fit your jewelry box, then cut notches into the cardboard where 2 pieces will intersect so they'll fit together securely.
- This will give you the freedom to customize your jewelry box based on the jewelry you have.
- Pin your earrings to a piece of ribbon to keep them organized in the box. If you want to keep your earrings together but you don't have a very big jewelry box, cut a small piece of heavy ribbon, such as grosgrain, then attach each pair of earrings to the ribbon. You can then place the ribbon in your jewelry box.[5]
- This will help keep even the tiniest earrings from getting lost in the bottom of your jewelry box.
- If you don't have ribbon on hand, you can use a small piece of fabric instead.
- Place your rings on a round binder clip to keep them together in your jewelry box. If you have a lot of rings, placing them on a circular binder clip can help keep them from getting disorganized. Place the rings on the clip, then close it to keep them all secured.[6]
- You can take one of the clips out of a 3-ring binder, or you can purchase binder rings individually from an office supply store.
- Wrap your necklaces in tissue paper to keep them from getting tangled. Tissue paper is a great way to keep your necklaces separated, especially if you have a few delicate chains that you don't wear often. Fold each necklace 1-2 times in the paper, then lay the tissue paper in your jewelry box.[7]
- You can also use press-and-seal plastic wrap instead of tissue paper.[8]
- Straighten up your jewelry box at least once a month. Keep your jewelry from getting disorganized again by taking the time to tidy it up every few weeks. Replace anything that's in the wrong spot and smooth out any chains which have gotten bunched up.
- In addition to keeping your jewelry organized, this will help keep you from forgetting about pieces you don't wear often, and you'll be more likely to rotate your jewelry.
[Edit]Finding Other Storage Options - Keep pieces that you wear every day out in the open. Your jewelry box will be less likely to get dishevelled if you're not rifling through it every day. If you have certain pieces of jewelry which you wear every day, try storing them by your bed, on top of your dresser, or near where you get dressed each day.[9]
- Just because the jewelry is in plain sight doesn't mean it has to be disorganized. Place a pretty tray, bowl, or dish wherever you take off your jewelry to keep things tidy.
- Display a few of your favorite pieces on a tray. Some jewelry just deserves to be displayed. If you have a few pieces of jewelry you're especially proud of, get a decorative stand to show it off.[10]
- Jewelry trees come in a variety of options, including some that look like hands, trees, antlers, or geometric sculptures.
- Hang long necklaces from a wall organizer. Since long necklaces have a tendency to tangle easily, it's best to organize them by hanging them from pegs or hooks. Sort them by color and style, then hang them somewhere easily accessible, like the inside of your closet door or beside your mirror.[11]
- You can hang your necklaces from hooks on a pegboard, thumbtacks pushed into a cork bulletin board, or adhesive hooks attached to your wall.
- Unclutter your jewelry box by storing pieces you rarely wear. If you have some fun costume pieces that are impractical for most situations, or a few valuable pieces that you never wear, store them in a box in your closet or a tray in a dresser drawer to free up space in your jewelry box.[12]
- Place chunky bracelets and necklaces in the pockets of a hanging shoe organizer to keep them separated.
- If you have jewelry with precious stones, you should consider investing in a small safe to keep it from get damaged or stolen.[13]
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References |
| How to Make a Fake Scar Posted: 29 Oct 2019 01:00 AM PDT An authentic looking Halloween costume can be tough, especially when the most realistic costumes and makeup are outside your price range. Even if you don't have a snazzy costume, changing the appearance of your face to something more spooky can be even better than the expensive alternatives. With a little bit of time and effort, your friends and family won't be able to tell who the person is behind the scars. [Edit]Using Liquid Collodion - Gather your supplies. This simple scar imitation can be accomplished without much preparation and in a relatively short amount of time. The only ingredients you will need are liquid collodion and scar colored makeup, both of which can be found at most costume, drug, or department stores.
- Collodion is a liquid compound that is highly adhesive and frequently used in medicine or special effects makeup.[1]
- Test your ingredients. Collodion is a component that can be harsh on the skin, so you should test a small area before making your main application. This way you can be sure you do not have a negative reaction.
- You should also test the color of the makeup as well. Try a little bit on the location you intend to use it. You natural skin color might offset the makeup color, making it look less authentic.
- Clean the soon to be "scarred" area. When your body is clean, FX makeup bonds better to your skin, creating a better seal between you and the adhesive. A baby wipe, or mild soap and warm water, will prep your skin for your new scar.[2]
- Wait until you skin is completely dry before applying your collodion.
- Imagine your scar pattern. You may need to use a mirror if you will be applying the makeup to your face, but looking at the part of your body you will be applying your scar effects to, image the scar pattern you desire.
- For more complicated scar patterns, you may want to use an eyebrow pencil to faintly sketch out the pattern before hand.
- You might consider hash-mark patterns, jagged lines, or menacing x shaped scars for your look.
- Apply the liquid collodion in layers. As the collodion dries, it will draw your skin together and provide the appearance of a scar. For a more pronounced effect, you can use multiple applications. You should allow each application to dry before adding another layer of collodion.
- Applying the liquid collodion to areas where you have tight skin could diminish the effect.
- Add color with makeup. Depending on your skin tone the color you use to tint your fake scar tissue will vary greatly. Your makeup can be applied over top or underneath your collodion scar.
- Underneath applications of makeup will require you to put on the makeup before your liquid collodion, first allowing the makeup to dry completely, if necessary.
- Remove your scar when finished. Before trying to remove the scar, you should take a baby wipe and remove any makeup from your prosthetic scar. You should be able to peel off the your false scar without too much trouble with your fingers. If you are having difficulty removing your scar tissue, apply a prosthetic makeup remover, like Super Solve or Isopropyl Myristate.[3]
[Edit]Making a Scar with Gelatin - Ensure you have all the necessary items. The gelatin itself that you will need is a cost effective and easy to use substance, and when applied correctly, can give the appearance of scars, wounds, or burns to your skin. To make your gelatin scar, you'll need:
- Gelatin applicator (popsicle stick/makeup spatula)
- Glycerin
- Gelatin (or ready-made gelatin)
- Hot water
- Makeup (scar color)
- Mixing cup
- Outline your new lines. You should have a firm idea of where your new lines of your scars will run on your body. Gelatin is very friendly when it comes to removal, so you don't have to worry about pain if you apply it to an area with hair.
- For more artistic scar patterns, gently drawing guide lines with an eyebrow pencil can be very helpful.
- You might consider hash-mark patterns, jagged lines, or menacing x shaped scars for your look.
- Ready your canvas. Whether this is your face or your arm, a clean and dry surface is best for applying your fake scar. A baby wipe works wonders, but if you don't have that available, a mild soap and warm water will do the job just as well.[4]
- Prepare your gelatin. The simplest ratio you can use for mixing up your gelatin scar solution is 1 part gelatin to 1 part hot water in your mixing cup. The problem with this sort of ratio is that the gelatin can get dried out and shrink, putting you at risk for losing your prosthetic scar.[5] Many FX makeup artists recommend adding some glycerin to prevent your scar from drying out too fast.
- Add ¼ teaspoon glycerin to your 1:1 gelatin/hot water mixture.[6]
- Stir your gelatin mixture thoroughly, otherwise you might have bubbles form in the mixture and spoil the effect.
- Be prepared to move quickly after preparing your gelatin; gelatin solidifies very quickly.
- Heat up water for ready-made FX gelatin. In your mixing cup, bring enough water to surround and heat your gelatin to a piping-hot temperature. Ready made gelatin usually comes in a bottle, which you have to heat to liquefy. Once it is liquid and at a safe temperature, you can apply it to your body.
- It's always best to test gelatin heated this way on a safe part of your body, like on your hand or forearm, before applying a large quantity of it to your body.
- Apply your gelatin mixture. Using your gelatin applicator, move the gelatin over the surface of your skin in the fashion that imitates the kind of scar you want to have. Due to the fact that your gelatin will not be malleable for long, you will need to apply your scar to your body fast.[7]
- If you are trying to create a scar effect over a large portion of your body, or if you are trying to create an intricate scar pattern, you may need to prepare your gelatin in several batches.
- While your gelatin is in the final stages of setting, you can tap it gently to create a puckered effect.
- Stain your scar to scare. Now that your gelatin scar is fully set, add some makeup to your scar to make it look more realistic. Foundation or concealer are great for blending the edges of the false scar, but a dash of something more livid can make your scar look like a fresh wound.
- Seal your makeup, if necessary. If you plan on an exciting night out, or if you're the type that can't keep your hands off yourself, you might want to consider using a setting spray to keep your makeup on your gelatin. A smear caused by an accidental gesture will leave your look less than believable.
- Remove when finished. Gelatin applied directly to the skin can be removed easily by peeling it off. Any stubborn bits can be loosened with warm water and a mild soap. This will ensure that all makeup and gelatin have been removed.
[Edit]Using Scar Wax - Collect the necessary items. Many professionals, including theatre companies, often use a special kind of wax, called nose wax or scar wax, to give the appearance of a cut or wound when needed.[8] The following supplies can be found at most costume shops or online costume supply providers:
- Makeup (scar color)
- Nose wax/scar wax
- Spirit gum
- Spirit gum remover
- Wax applicator (Popsicle stick, palette knife, etc.)
- Clean your face. Any oil, dirt, or grime on your face can make your wax bond imperfectly to your face. To prevent your scar wax from peeling off or coming loose over the course of your activities, use mild soap and water to make sure the place you will be applying your wax scar is clean.
- Check for allergies. Be sure that you verify the ingredients used in your scar-making products to prevent an allergic reaction. If you have sensitive skin, you should test a small amount of your products somewhere on your body before applying your scar.
- Avoid scarring areas that move. Movement of your body causes your skin to bunch and fold, which will put stress on your scar makeup while you are in costume. Bony areas, like the nose, chin, cheekbones, and forehead, are more likely to keep still and leave your scar looking pristine.[9]
- Apply your adhesive. Some scar wax may be sticky enough, and the part of your body stationary enough, that you won't need to add adhesive to keep it stuck. Even if you don't think your scar is in danger of being knocked loose, using a little spirit gum to the back of your scar will help keep it in place for a few hours, in most cases.[10]
- Apply your adhesive to the area of your body the scar will cover, leaving it slightly tacky.
- Take a small amount of wax initially. Depending on the brand you have purchased, there may be some small differences in wax consistency, but scar wax is often thick, much like a putty. It can be sold in tubes, which can be squeezed to dispense your wax, or tubs, which you will have to scrape/scoop with your applicator.
- Professionals often break off a small piece of wax to work with at first, adding more as necessary.
- As this kind of wax can be quite sticky, you may want to cover your applicator and fingers with a little mineral oil to make the process more efficient. Vaseline will also keep the wax from sticking to your fingers.
- Warm the wax. At room temperature, your wax will likely be stiff and inflexible. You can make the wax more pliable and easier to shape by kneading it with your hands, warming it in the process. You should do this until the wax is soft, but not so much that the wax loses its ability to hold shape.[11]
- Create the rough dimensions. Now that your warmed up wax is ready to go, form it into the general shape of the scar you wish it to become. A long, thin scar can be made by rolling your wax into the shape of a thick thread. Start by smoothing the entire scar on your body into a neutral line on top of your adhesive. You can give the scar texture and depth by building up your wax-line, or by using precision tools.[12]
- Blend your scar for flourish. Even the most convincing shaped wax might not be believable if you don't blend your new disfigurement with its surrounding skin. Liquid foundation is a good option to fill in seams between your wax and face, but you should at least use some makeup to give it the appearance of your complexion.[13]
- Revert to your normal self. Apply your spirit gum (or other adhesive solvent) to the area around your scar and allow it to sit for a short while. When your scar begins to feel loose, you can peel it from your face, cleaning any residue leftover with either warm water and mild soap, or a baby wipe.
[Edit]Things You'll Need [Edit]Using Liquid Collodion - Liquid collodion
- Eyebrow pencil (optional)
- Makeup (scar colored)
[Edit]Making a Scar with Gelatin - Gelatin applicator (popsicle stick/makeup spatula)
- Glycerin
- Gelatin (or ready-made gelatin)
- Hot water
- Makeup (scar color)
- Mixing cup
[Edit]Using Scar Wax - Makeup (scar color)
- Nose wax/scar wax
- Spirit gum
- Spirit gum remover
- Wax applicator (Popsicle stick, palette knife, etc.)
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
No comments:
Post a Comment