DIY Message on a Bottle

I work in a research lab at a University.  Every so often when a lab is closing, they offer up what would otherwise get thrown away, to other labs.  So I wandered down looking for things I could use in the lab, and ended up with 2 boxes of these beautiful bottles.  The glass was so beautiful, I just couldn't stand to see them get thrown away.   

My first thought was to etch them.  I've seen some really great etched projects.  So I bought a bottle of the etching cream and gave it a try.

The instructions say "may not work on Pyrex", but I've seen it done on Pyrex.  I think people just increase the time they leave it on.

Well, even after 30 minutes (the instructions say 2 minutes), no luck.  The glass was just as beautiful and clear as before.  

So, new plan, chalkboard spray paint!

I used a punch to cut some contact paper and carefully smoothed it on the glass.  I learned that you really need to smooth it out well as the spray paint will find any tiny crack and run underneath.  The good news is that it scratches off fairly easily, so you can fix any imperfections later.

Spray on the chalkboard paint, let it dry for an hour, do a second coat and let it dry for 24hrs.  

Add some flowers and a message.
 You could do this on any kind of vase to add a little message.  Would make a nice little Valentine's gift.

Another Washi Dress

 We're headed to Florida soon and my thoughts are on warmer weather.  Perfect excuse to whip up another Washi Dress.  I like my first Washi Dress, it definitely needed some fit adjustments.

 This time around, I made some adjustments to the bust.  I moved the darts up a bit, shortened the bust, brought the shoulders in and widened the neck.  I also cut just about 2 inches out of the middle.  I also did a partial lining instead of the facings.  Rae has a series of videos to walk you through it.  I think it's actually easier than the facings.  I had my computer next to my machine and it felt like Rae and I were sewing together.  How fun!
 The result of my haphazard adjustments is a shockingly perfect fit!  This is my first attempt at fitting and makes me think that I might actually invest in a dress form.  I've got my eye on this one. 

I really like adding a tie to the Washi.  This time I made it wider and added some belt loops to the side.  

I'm sooo happy with this dress. I picked this fabric up on clearance for $2/yard and really didn't think it was that great. I figured for the price it would make a good muslin. 

I think my next venture is going to be figuring out how to add an invisible zipper to the back.

Happy New Year!

Wishing you a happy and healthy new year!

I'm not big on new year's resolutions.  I prefer to reflect on everything that has brought joy to my life in the past year.  It's been wonderful watching my children change and grow.  We started school and embraced the change as a family. 

I've enjoyed learning to use my camera more and not getting so hung up on photos for blogging.  

My husband traded his classical guitar in for a banjo and it's been really fun watching and listening to him learn as he adds another instrument to his collection.

Overall, it's been a great year.  Can't wait to see what new joys the new year brings!

Happy new year to you and thanks for stopping by.