Valentines Gifts

Valentine's day is as much about friendship as it is for lovers.

Preparing handmade valentines require much thought and preparation. The more unique the gift, the better it is. And it goes without saying handmade is always appreciated. I haven't done this since secondary school. But, since I have some extra time on my hands I can get this done over this weekend.

Starting with thick stock paper to make the boxes, I only have blue colour on hand so this has to do. Cut and stick then make scalloped edging with a craft punch. Filled with Red & Natural Coral necklaces handmade in 14k goldfill and 925 silver so it can keep for a longer time. Ribbons and stickers to complete the parcel.

Fire & Ice Candle

 

I was completely smitten with these sponge-like candles the first time I laid eyes on it. Tricky to make and tricky to burn. The many holes mean melted wax seeps down in an irregular manner and can set your table alight. Sometimes, the candle doesn't even light as not all parts of the wick are covered in wax.

Basically, its trial and error to make these candles just right. I had trouble getting the ice cubes the right size, removal from mould was difficult as it is structurally fragile and then fragrance oil started to leak from the many holes.

So finally, here are the instructions:
(1) Pour a little wax into the mould to create a base
(2) Position a tapered candle in the centre
(3) Surround tapered candle with ice cubes
(4) Fill mould with wax
(5) Let it stand for around 4 hours
(6) Unmould over a basin or sink as the melted ice will pour out
(7) Leave candle to dry before wrapping

Some tips that helped me with this process:
(1) Add not more than 1/20 part fragrance oils, the excess won't mix with the wax
(2) Freeze small sized ice cubes instead of smashing normal ice cubes
(3) Use tetra pack moulds that tear away are perfect, no need to push & pull
(4) Ensuring the candle has a flat base and top allows for easier handling

My 4 oz Fire & Ice Candle! After a few false starts, it is done.

Reebonz Video

* I can't believe it! Who in the world makes fun of their customers?!*

Hilarious and annoying at the same time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LYF7uXd-3Q&feature=youtu.be

Spotlight Sale

Sale at Spotlight an Australian Crafts Store. New pink cover for my bodymate pillow, plastic pearls for the a rose wreath I am making, wax pellets, glue tape and charm triangles for quilting. I am planning to make baby quilts this year instead of diaper cakes. And these precut fabrics are soo handy, no need to match fabrics and then cut it out. Just sew and it's done!



Shoe Collection (size 7)

Now that I can no longer fit into size 7 shoes, I have decided to be rid of them once and for all. I am selling all 30 pairs of lightly used size 7 shoes on eBay as a collection. The heavily used pairs have been thrown away. As you can see there are 3 styles I wear - heeled wedges, ballet flats and peep toe heels. There are high end brands like Ferragamo, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and Marc Jacobs to mid-market brands like Gap & Crocs. Very comprehensive.

I find myself mostly in slippers and flats nowadays so may make another listing of size 8 heels.

Yuan Xiao Festival 元宵节

The 15th day of the first lunar month marks the end of the Chinese New Year festivities. Also known as Chinese Valentine's Day, everyone traditionally eats tangyuan or rice glutinous balls on this day. I remember when my grandma was alive, she made this dish from scratch for the whole family to enjoy. After she passed away, we get the frozen versions from the supermarket as it's more convenient. This year we have Taiwanese Strawberry Ice Cream mochi, that the kids love.

Iphone 4 Cross Stitch Case

Something new for us to sew customizables on. The silicon Iphone 4 case with perforated holes. Kit comes with coloured thread and some designs for you to choose from. Retail price is $20 but you can get it for $5 on gmarket.com.sg.