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Each month we will publish a new Top 10 Tips list and give one lucky crafter the chance to win a great prize!
If you have a tip you're simply bursting to share with others, email it to editorial@handmade.com.au with
‘HM Top 10 Tips'
in the subject line of your email
Email your tip now! |
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It can be frustrating to sit through international flights without being able to knit as needles are banned. So keep your fingers occupied with Kumihimo bracelets or friendship bands. Be sure to cut all the threads you’ll need beforehand and keep everything in a plastic bag so it’s easy to make them. |
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When using a sewing machine or overlocker, place a rubber floor mat beneath the pedal to stop it slipping. |
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When beading, use a Post-it Note to hold your beads. The sticky strip makes them easier to string in order, and allows for a quick pick-up if they spill on the floor. |
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In humid temperatures, certain varnishes and decoupage glues may become cloudy. If they don’t dry properly they could remain tacky, which would ruin your project. So proceed with caution. |
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Unwanted shoulder pads can be removed and sewn into wire coathangers to create instant padding for delicate garments. |
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A child’s drawing can be made into a family heirloom. Simply transfer the images to material and stitch them with cotton, making sure to match the crayon colours. Finish the quilt as desired, store it and then give it to the child as a birthday present. It’s helpful to include the child’s name, age and the date on the back. |
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If you use a blue water-erasable on in your craft projects, try removing it with a small, flat artists’ brush dipped in water. It’s a cheap and re-usable method. |
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Always use old scissors to cut felt as this material will blunt your good scissors very quickly. |
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To create a watercolour effect with a large stamp, ink it, then spray it with water and allow the ink and water to mix, then stamp your work. If you want the second image to appear lighter, just breathe on the stamp to moisten the ink and stamp it again. |
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Create a small brag book of photos for little ones to play with by laminating their favourite photos of each family member. Simply place two photos together with the wrong sides facing, have them laminated together, punch a hole in the top left-hand corner then thread the pages onto a split ring (these are the rings you put keys onto). Kids love to look at photos and this prevents messy fingerprints over some of your cherished memories, and they can take them wherever they go! |
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