Independence from Ice Cream Cones

This Fourth of July we made homemade ice cream to celebrate. Some neighbors were coming over to watch our fireworks show and we wanted a easy way to serve it that wasn't ice cream cones because homemade ice cream melts fast and doesn't work well in cones. 

Also, we didn't want to have to run to the store. 

Frankly, we don't own enough bowls to serve a bunch of people.

My mom had a great idea: we could use paper "hot drink" cups and decorate them with some vintage lace and trimmings we already owned. (This is a great way to use the small bits.)

It turned out great and cost us nothing, not even a trip to the store!

This is my sister enjoying ice cream "in a cup".

It was pretty easy. First, we collected our supplies...

For this cup I used some bias tape and rick rack, cut to fit around the cup, but any trimmings can be used.

I turned on my glue gun and used it to apply a dot of hot glue.

I opened the bias tape to its full width and pressed one end onto the dot of glue.

I wrapped the other end around and attached it with another dot of glue, on top of the first end.

Now the first trimming is done, and you can add another piece of something (like this rick rack) in the same way as the first piece.

The cup looks great and is ready for ice cream!

 You can use almost anything to decorate the cups, such as buttons, raffia, paper or rubber stamps. These would work well for any occasion. Tying the trimmings on also works if you hot glue the back on first.

 There are bunch of cute options!

My dad and little brother also using a ice cream cup.

Have fun! -the hope maiden

The "T" Initial Pillow!

I made this pillow recently for my teacher, Mrs. Teter, and I followed the same steps I usually use to create my "Initial Pillows".

I start with two pieces of fabric about the size I want my finished pillow.

I chose a color of felt and cut a letter out of it, using a template I draw with pencil, or a shape I print out from online. Sewing the felt letter onto the fabric with embroidery floss is the last step to finishing the initial! 

I do enjoy adding something small onto the corner of the initial, usually out of felt. You can use your imagination and embroidery floss to create a special touch, like this singing bird!

 Next, I place the right sides of both pieces of fabric together. Using a sewing machine, I sew around the sides of the fabric, leaving a small opening.

Turn the pillow inside out, using the opening. I stuff the pillow by hand with batting 

(see Inspire 1 pillow) and hand sew the opening up. Sorry there is no picture here. 

Now the initial pillow is finished!

I really enjoy making personalized initial pillows for people because you get to use your imagination and create something completely unique.
                                            Have fun creating and check out my Pillows page at the                                                                      bottom of my posts!
the hope maiden