A quick look at Pinterest boards named “My Dream Home” and the dream in dream home starts to feel like that’s it’s all going to be – a dream. But design hacks like this DIY concrete kitchen island not only saves you a lot (a lot!) of money on kitchen renovation, but by adding pieces that you built yourself, it also makes your journey to making your dream home come true more meaningful. Ben Uyeda from Homemade Modern has generously shared his tutorial with us so we can pass it on to you all. This DIY is divided into four parts: The Plan (an overview of the project) Tools and Materials (things you need to build) Building the concrete countertop of the kitchen island Building the base for the countertop   Now let’s begin this DIY kitchen island. A big thanks to the Ben from Homemade Modern for sharing this tutorial. Check out the original article here. The Plan Plan for a DIY Kitchen Island via Homemade Modern Tools and Materials via Homemade Modern Cordless Drill Circular Saw or Miter Saw Concrete Countertop Mix (Grey) 36” Long 1 1/4” Square Fir Balusters 3/4” Melamine Board 2×4s and 1×4s 3”, 2 1/2” and 1 5/8” Stainless Steel Screws PART 1: Making the Concrete Countertop via Homemade Modern STEP 1: Using a circular saw, cut the melamine board into three 4 feet long and 2.5″ wide strips. If your saw has a guide attachment, use it to get nice and even cuts. via Homemade Modern STEP 2: Attach fir balusters around the melamine board with screws. This will support the melamine strips on Step 1. via Homemade Modern STEP 3: The fir balusters will act as the support for the melamine board strips you cut on Step 1. via Homemade Modern STEP 4: Secure the melamine strips to the board by using it a glue gun. You can also screw it to the board. via Homemade Modern STEP 5: To keep the concrete mix from leaking, use a latex or silicone caulk to seal the entire form. Squeeze a bead of sealant along the edges and corners. Smooth it out with your fingers. Once dry, clean the form thoroughly before pouring the concrete mix. This step is very important, because any dust or dirt in the form will end up in your concrete countertop. via Homemade Modern STEP 6: Once you’ve completed the form, prepare the rebar. The rebar will not only reinforce the concrete countertop of your kitchen island, it’ll also bond the concrete mix better. via Homemade Modern STEP 7: To create the rebar, you need to wire together 4 pieces of 1/2” diameter rebar into a rectangle. via Homemade Modern STEP 8: Make your concrete countertop mix. via Homemade Modern STEP 9: Pour your concrete mix in the form. Make sure to fill it only two-thirds of the way. Place the rebar at the center of the form. via Homemade Modern STEP 10: Pour the remaining concrete countertop mix the rest of the way. via Homemade Modern STEP 11: To make sure the top of your DIY kitchen island is leveled, use a piece of scrap wood and run it across the top of the form.  This will also compact the concrete. Let it cure for 48 hours before disassembling the form. Just to avoid anything getting in on your concrete, you can also place a cover over it. via Homemade Modern STEP 12: After the concrete has set, you can now remove it from the form. You now have the countertop of your kitchen island cart. PART 2: Making the Base for the Countertop via Homemade Modern STEP 1: You can cut the wood for the base of the kitchen island two ways: A circular saw and a speed square or a miter saw. via Homemade Modern STEP 2: Once you’ve cut it according to the specified measurements, give it a light sanding to smooth out the edges. via Homemade Modern STEP 3: Once you have all the pieces together, lay them out first. Start by laying out the pieces for the bottom tray of the kitchen island. via Homemade Modern STEP 4: To make sure that the base of you kitchen island is aligned, use a square to check the corners. Make sure that you have 90 degrees for all corners. via Homemade Modern STEP 5: When you have perfect 90 degrees on all corners, is the only time you can start screwing the pieces of the bottom tray together. via Homemade Modern STEP 6: Same with the bottom tray, measure the corners of the top frame before fastening them together with 2 1/2” screws. via Homemade Modern STEP 7: Start assembling the pieces once all corners measure 90-degrees. via Homemade Modern STEP 8: Using 3″ screws, attach the legs of the kitchen island to the upper tray. If it feels a little unsteady, this is because you’ve yet to attach the bottom tray. via Homemade Modern STEP 9: The next step in your DIY kitchen island is to attach the bottom tray. To do this, turn the upper tray right side up. Slide the bottom tray underneath. via Homemade Modern STEP 10: Use wood scraps to support the bottom tray and raise it off the ground. This method will make it easier to attach the bottom tray to the legs of the kitchen island. via Homemade Modern STEP 11: Again, before attaching it to the legs, make sure that it’s square. Once you’ve done that, take your 3″ screws and attach the bottom tray to each leg of your kitchen island cart. via Homemade Modern STEP 12: Do the same thing on Step 11, except this time, it’s to attach the upper tray. via Homemade Modern STEP 13: Carefully measure the trimmings that would go around the top part of your kitchen island. via Homemade Modern STEP 14: The concrete tabletop of your kitchen island will go on top of these trimmings, so make sure that they’re sturdy. via Homemade Modern STEP 15: To match your rustic kitchen, you have the option to paint or stain your DIY kitchen island at this point before putting in the concrete countertop. via Homemade Modern STEP 16: Because the concrete countertop on your kitchen island cart is quite heavy, get someone to help you lift it. Once you’ve placed it on top, seal the concrete to protect and finish your countertop. Finished DIY Kitchen Island via Homemade Modern   If you did this DIY kitchen island with concrete countertop, let us know how it fits in your rustic kitchen. Or if you have tips on how to improve this DIY, leave a comment on this post. Click here to check out more from the incredible Ben Uyeda at his blog Homemade Modern!  Want more cheap kitchen renovation DIYs? How about home furniture hacks? Then, click the links below. Alice In Wonderland Style Stacked Teacup Lamp IKEA Hacks |DIY Furniture You Must Try 5 DIY Projects Using Cut Glass Bottles |How to Cut Glass With String   Renovating your kitchen? Go see LINK nationalgranit.com

  Homemade ice cream has been one of our favorite sweet treats lately to cool off on hot summer days. Right now, you’re thinking: Why would I make my own, when I can easily buy a tub of ice cream from the store? Well, not only can you control the ingredients that goes into your ice cream – avoiding artificial colorings and flavorings – but you can also customize it however you like. So you end up with a personalized and healthier version of your favorite dessert. And because you can control the ingredients, you can also control your budget. You can choose to splurge on ingredients when you can and then make a minimalist version of the same variant when the budget is tight. Unlike store-bought, where you almost always have to pay premium price, especially during the summer days. But most importantly, the reason you should make your own ice cream is because it’s really, really fun. My son already enjoys helping me make ice cream. It’s a great activity to do with the kids. Let’s begin by learning how to make a basic vanilla ice cream, which I happen to love.  Once you’ve made a batch, you can divide it to make other flavors. For example, you can add cocoa powder to make chocolate ice cream or a fresh-flavored one using fruits and nuts, so everybody in the house could have their favorite. Don’t have an ice cream maker? Don’t worry.  All you have to do is: Place the custard mixture in a covered container in the freezer for around half an hour. Take it out and mix the custard well. Break up any hard and frozen pieces that may have formed around the edges. Place it back in the freezer. Take it out again and mix for another 30-45 minutes.  Repeat, and keep checking on the ice cream until it reaches your desired consistency. You can keep it “soft serve” or leave it the freezer for several hours for a firmer consistency. Mine actually broke while I was making the chocolate ice cream in the pictures, and I finished making it in the freezer. We have been making ice cream (including the vanilla ice cream in the final pictures) in the freezer since. There wasn’t a big difference in texture from the ice cream made from an ice cream maker, it was just as smooth and as creamy. So, what are you waiting for? Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups whole milk 1 1/2 cups heavy cream 6 egg yolks 3/4 cup sugar 1-2 tsp. vanilla extract (Cocoa powder – optional) How to Make Basic Vanilla Ice Cream Start your homemade ice cream by mixing all ingredients in a bowl. STEP 1: Mix the milk, eggs, cream and sugar together in a large saucepan. Cook over medium to low heat. Add a few drops of vanilla extract to your homemade ice cream. STEP 2: Stir constantly until the mixture begins thickening into a thin custard. Remove it from heat, and add in the vanilla extract. Chocolate Homemade Ice Cream Mixing well is very important in homemade ice cream recipes Creamy homemade ice cream. Get the kids to help in making their own homemade ice cream STEP 3: If you want to make chocolate ice cream, separate your mixture in half and add some cocoa powder. For a smoother consistency, strain your homemade ice cream mix STEP 4: Strain mixture through a sieve into a container that you plan to use for refrigerating your custard mixture.  Refrigerate for several hours.  I left mine overnight. Homemade ice cream in an ice cream maker. You can also choose to keep your homemade ice cream soft serve. STEP 5: Follow the directions for your ice cream maker to freeze the ice cream into a soft ice cream texture. Place in a separate container to freeze. STEP 6: To finish hardening the ice cream, put it into a covered container and place in the freezer until it gets to the desired consistency. Viola! Basic homemade ice cream in two flavors. Homemade Ice Cream in Vanilla and Chocolate Flavors. Do you want more homemade recipes? Check out our other quick and easy dessert recipes: Mason Jar Cookie Recipes: M&M Cookies Chocolate Crepes Recipe With Mascarpone Filling How To Make Cheesecake | Best Dessert Recipes

Want to know how to make a dog sweater? Dog clothing are always fun to make. If you want to make your small dog clothes, then this would be the dog sweater for you. It’s fashionable and chic but also a cheap dog sweater at the same time. What’s not to love? How to Make a Dog Sweater | Dog Clothing If you (and your doggie) are super stylish, you’ll absolutely want to try this easy DIY and chic dog sweater. Upcycle your old sweater and turn it into a sweet-looking sweater! We’re sure that your precious little dog will turn many a heads with this charming sweater that will keep him warm! You simply DO NOT want to miss one of the easiest DIY dog clothes!     First, you’ll need the following for your dog sweater: Old Sweater Ribbon Trim Bling and Buttons Step 1 You’ll need to make a pattern first. Measure your dogs neck loosely and make the top of your pattern half that. Then, measure your dog’s waist & the bottom of your pattern will be half that. Then, cut out your pattern pieces. Step 2 You’ll end up with these pattern pieces: (Dorsal) back , (Ventral) belly panel, and 2 sleeves. Step 3 Sew one side of the Dorsal (back) and Ventral (belly). Step 4 Then add the fabric trim (along the neck first) to give a cute look. This trim is approximately 4″ then fold in half. Step 5 After sewing the neck part, you’ll need to sew the other side of the shoulder and the ends of the sweater just like the picture shown above. You can now add the buttons and belt to give the finishing touches of this homemade dog sweater.   Voila!!! And there you have it! You have just finished making your DIY dog sweater! Your pup will be snug with this creative sweater! Here’s how your dog looks like when you try it on him! How sweet is this pretty recycled doggie sweater? Looks super duper cute PLUS there will be no shivering for any pup anymore! Great job!   You can also check out the video below for FULL tutorial on how to make a dog sweater from PetAdorn:     Did you enjoy our tutorial on how to make a dog sweater? Let us know in the comments section below what your thoughts are on this cheap dog clothes. Do you have any other pet projects you’d like to share? Share it with us and we’ll give it a try. We love doing cool DIY projects by making craft projects, home decor projects, upcycling ideas, recipes, tutorials and anything you can do yourself. That’s why we created this site, we want people to be more in touch with their creative side and realize that there’s a lot of things that they can do themselves. We’d love to hear from you and create a community of DIY enthusiasts where any project is just a click away. Stay connected with us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram!   Check out more from our pet projects below: Easy DIY No Sew Dog Jacket 15 DIY Pet Projects & Recipes How to Make Homemade Dog Shampoo

Must I admit that growing up, I used to always make “baked potatoes” in the microwave? And we all know how those turn out, right? Soggy potato skin and a cold center. Perhaps it was because I was so used to eating foil-wrapped (which causes them to be steamed rather than baked) potatoes at restaurants, that it sadly became my idea of a perfectly baked potato, and not one with crispy skin and a soft, light center. Trying to achieve a perfectly baked potato is an art in itself.  But there are few simple tricks you can do to make sure that yours turn out perfect. Use the right kind of potato. The success of your baked potato recipe depends upon the potato you use. Starchy potatoes and russet potatoes are known to be great for baking. If you’re not sure what kind you’re getting, most supermarkets label their potatoes as either “baking” or “frying” potatoes.  Choose the baking type for this recipe. Choose potatoes of similar sizes. Getting potatoes of the same size will help ensure that they will all be cooked and ready at the same time. And, when they’re all ready at the same time, you’re less likely to feel the need to wrap your finished potatoes in foil.  As mentioned earlier, wrapping your baked potatoes in foil turns the skin into a soggy mess. How do I serve baked potatoes? For added flavor, finish your baked potato with a pinch of sea salt. I’m a very simple girl, and love them swimming in a sea of butter and finished with a sprinkle of salt.  Of course, you can always add some sour cream and top it with chopped chives. Melted cheese (a lot of it) and bacon bits (also a lot of it) is another favorite, especially with kids. Sour cream and chives is a favorite way to serve baked potatoes. Hungry yet? Let’s start making some baked potatoes! Ingredients: Small to medium (starchy type) potatoes Olive oil, butter or ghee Salt How to Make Baked Potatoes Clean potatoes are best for any baked potato recipe. STEP 1: Preheat oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Rinse the potatoes while waiting for the oven to be the right temperature.  If you have a brush, scrubbing them under running water, to help remove any residual dirt, can be very helpful. Use generous amounts of butter in your baked potatoes. STEP 2: Brush the potatoes with olive oil, butter or melted ghee, and sprinkle with salt. No foil was used in this baked potato recipe STEP 3: Place on a rack in the oven, and bake until the potatoes are soft when you press on the center. This usually takes around an hour.  It’s also a good idea to place a baking pan underneath them to catch any drips of oil. Just a bit of butter and this baked potato is ready to serve. STEP 4: Once the potatoes are done, serve your baked potatoes however you like.  If you plan on serving them with cheese, slit the potatoes open and fill with your cheese of choice, and place back into the still warm oven until the cheese melts.  Cheesy baked potatoes are also great with bacon sprinkled on top.  But isn’t everything? Baked potatoes are even better with cheese – lots of cheese. Do you want more DIY recipes that make you look like a fancy 5-star chef? Click on the links below. 13 DIY Projects & Recipes For A Backyard BBQ Easy Finger Foods | Recipes and Ideas for Your Party How To Make Pancakes |Breakfast Recipes

There are few things more delicious than the combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato. We have the secret to the best BLT of your life – the bacon weave. Bacon weaves for sandwiches are sort of like mini-weaves, a 1 pound package of thin sliced bacon can make around 5 sandwich sized weaves. Pair your bacon weave sandwich with some chips.   Add your ingredient of choice to your bacon weave sandwich. Ingredients for a Bacon Weave BLT 3 slices thin sliced bacon cut in half to make 6 pieces 2 slices bread 2 to 3 slices tomatoes 2 leaves lettuce 1 tablespoon mayonnaise 1 slice red onion (optional) 1 Grill Pan   How to Make a Bacon Weave Sandwich Step 1: You can use one to two packs of bacon for your bacon weave BLT. Bacon weave on the grill. Make the slices of bacon the same size for your bacon weave to cook evenly. Lay out a few pieces of bacon to start your bacon weave. First we will need to weave the bacon. In the sideshow above I have step-by-step pictures. Cut 3 slices of bacon in half to make 6 pieces, lay 3 half-slices side by side on a raised baking rack or a baking tray lined with aluminum foil.   Step 2: Lay out three pieces of bacon weave vertically. Place one strip of bacon across. Fold the middle slice down and lay another half-slice across and on top of the other two slices (see picture in slideshow).   Step 3: Flip the folded strip back up. Unfold the middle slice so it lies over the top of the across slice you had just put down.   Step 4: Fold the two end bacon strips upwards. Now fold the two outside slices over the across slice. Lay another half-slice across the middle slice, then unfold the two outside slices over the across slice you had just put down.   Step 5: Lay another piece of bacon horizontally. Fold the end strips back down over the horizontal bacon strip. Fold the middle slice up over the across slice and lay another half-slice across the two outside slices.   Step 6:   Fold the middle strip upwards and lay another bacon strip across. Lock your bacon weave down by folding the middle strip over the horizontal bacon strip. Now unfold the middle slice over the last slice you put down. You now should have a mini-bacon weave. Again, check the step-by-step in the slideshow. It is really easy to follow if you look at the step-by-step pictures.   Step 7: Bacon weave pieces on a grill. Repeat for each sandwich you plan to make. Preheat grill or oven to 350ºF.   Step 8: How delicious is this bacon weave photo? Place rack/sheet with bacon weaves in a grill or oven and bake for a till done (around 25 minutes). If using a rack in the oven, be sure to have a pan underneath the rack to catch the drippings.   Step 9: Two pieces of bacon weave per layer? Absolutely. Pull bacon when done at let cool.   Step 10: Start stacking your sandwich with your bacon weave at the bottom. Ingredients for your bacon weave recipe. Put two big slices of tomato per layer of your bacon weave BLT. Add your ingredient of choice to your bacon weave sandwich. You can use either white or red onions for this BLT sandwich recipe. Pair your bacon weave sandwich with some chips. Share your bacon weave sandwich. You can use different types of bread for your bacon weave BLT. To assemble the sandwich, lay bacon weave on top of one slice of bread, add lettuce and tomato slices, cover with a top slice of bread with mayo. I also like to add a slice of red onion to spice things up a little.   If this isn’t the best BLT you’ve ever had I will be shocked. Give it a go and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Impress your friends at your next cookout! REALLY love bacon? Want more recipes? Check out these posts – Perfectly Baked Potatoes Easy Homemade Ice Cream 18 Mouthwatering Camping Breakfast Recipes

  If you were to guess why I decided to build this DIY outdoor table, cooking probably wouldn’t be one of them, right? But it’s true. I built this outdoor table because of my love for cooking. I never pass up on a good cook out with friends and family. I designed this outdoor table with ease of use in mind. The top comes off for easy storage in the garage during the winter months. And if you’re planning to use it as a farmer’s table type of dining table indoors, you can use RustOleum satin interior poly on the finish, just as I do with all my indoor projects. Another thing I did particularly for this DIY outdoor table is that, unlike other outdoor tables with a sawhorse design, I tweaked it a little bit to a one large sawhorse. This is because I didn’t want the table to have too many legs for chairs to bump into. Let’s get started building this DIY Outdoor Table. I hope you have fun building it! Great addition to your patio furniture. Tools and Materials Saw Measuring tape Kreg Jig Pocket Hole system 1 ¼” PH screws 2” PH screws Sander 120, 220 grit sand paper Part 1 of How to Make a DIY Outdoor Table: Building the Base Materials for your DIY Outdoor Table STEP 1: Starting with the table base, begin by cutting your boards to this cut list: 2×4’s: 1 – 48” 4 – 12” 4 – 28” ends cut at 15 degrees of square parallel angles  (measurement taken from long point to short point) 2 – 18 ½” 15 degrees, not parallel (short point to short point) 1 – 44 ¼” 2 – 3” The table I made is 72” Long and 36” Wide. If you would like a different-sized table, adjust your sawhorse base by adding or subtracting based on your desired dimensions. After cutting your pieces, sand all boards with 120 grit sand paper. Don’t forget to sand your wooden pieces after this step. Layout your outdoor table pieces. STEP 2: Make two pocket holes in one end of each of the 12” pieces. Using 2” PH screws, join the four 12” pieces to form the letter I. Layout the pieces before attaching permanently. STEP 3: With the 28” angled cuts, make two pocket holes at one end of each board, as well as both ends of the 18 ½ angled pieces. Measuring 5” up from the non-PH end, attach the stretchers to two legs. Repeat this process for the other set of legs. Attach the legs of your outdoor table to the “I” STEP 4: With the “I” facing upwards, space the legs evenly before attaching it with 2” PH screws. Then, make pocket holes in the remaining 3 pieces of wood, the two 3” get ¾” pocket holes. You’re almost done with your new patio furniture. STEP 6: Attach to the stretcher using 2” PH screws for the long board, and 1 ¼” PH screws for the little pieces. Completed base of your DIY outdoor table. STEP 7: Flip the entire structure over and the base of your DIY Outdoor table is done. Part 2 of How to Make a DIY Outdoor Table: Building the Tabletop Time to build the table top for this DIY outdoor table. STEP 1: Arrange your boards with what looks best to you. I chose to alternate my 1×8” with the smaller and larger boards.I wanted a pieced together plank top, so I choose three 1×8”, one 1×10”s and one 1×6” all at 72” long to form my table top. My actual width is 36 ⅜”. This may vary slightly depending on your boards. Give your DIY Outdoor Table a flush finish. STEP 2: If you are using 5 boards, take the 2nd and 4th board and make pocket holes going to both edges. Work from the middle and make your way out. Checking that it’s square as you go. and that the ends align flush. Trimmings give your DIY Outdoor Table a great finish. STEP 3: For extra support, and to make carrying the tabletop easier, as well as give the top a bulkier appearance, trim the rim with 1×3”s and 1×2”s. pre-drill the holes, add wood glue, and screw with 1 ¼” wood screws. You’re almost done with your DIY outdoor table. STEP 4: Flip the completed tabletop over and sand again with 120 grit sand paper. I like to round the edges to give the wood a worn in look. Don’t forget to round the edges of the table where your arms rest too. You don’t want to sharp edges to your DIY outdoor table, especially if you have little kids at home. [EXTRA] Part 3 of How to Make a DIY Outdoor Table: Staining I wanted a “polished rustic” look, so I mixed 3 different stains together to achieve the look I was going for. Feel free to stain it any color you want! This is how I got this look: Materials 1 half Drift Wood Rustoleum Wood stain ¼ Dark Walnut  Rustoleum wood stain ¼ Grey Weathered Rustoleum wood stain How to Stain Your DIY Outdoor Table You can choose to stain your outdoor table. STEP1: Mix all three together in a separate container. This can be a very messy process. I would recommend using the pour spouts you can purchase at most home improvement stores. It will help tame the mess. If you’re going to use your table indoors, staining is a great option. Stain your DIY outdoor table to fit your interior’s theme. STEP 2: The process of staining isn’t an exact science, so just play around with mixing the stains to get the color you are happy with. Viola! Your very own DIY Outdoor Table. Great addition to your patio furniture. Do you want more DIY for your home? Check out these cool DIY projects: Build This DIY Rustic Kitchen Island | Cheap Kitchen Renovations IKEA Hacks |DIY Furniture You Must Try How to Make a Sawhorse | DIY Simple Woodworking Plans

If you have a super busy lifestyle, organizing is one of the skills that you should acquire. One of the most overlooked organizational task is the mail, which almost always ends up in a pile on your kitchen table. And we all know what happens when we leave our mail unorganized – unpaid bills, unanswered letters, ignored correspondences. But don’t fret, this cute mail organizer will ensure that no birthday card from grandma goes unread.    Ready to Make Your Cute Wall Mounted Organizer?   What you need to create your DIY mail organizer. Supplies: Frame Cardboard Fabric Pins Scissors Glue gun Iron Sewing machine (Optional) How to Make a Hanging Mail Organizer STEP 1: Cut a cardboard piece that fit into your choice of frame. Cut a rectangle from the fabric that’s 2 inches wider than the cardboard. Choose a colorful fabric for your mail organizer.   STEP 2: Cut 2 smaller rectangles. The width is the same as the first rectangle but the height must be ⅔ of the first rectangle. For example, my first rectangle was 20” width x 15” high , so my two smaller rectangles are 20“ width x 10” high. These measurements will change according to the size of your chosen frame. Bold prints make your mail organizer a focal point in the room.   STEP 3: You’re going to use the two small rectangles to make pockets for your DIY mail organize. Fold the hem. Take the part that you folded and fold it again in half. Iron them to mark the folds. These will be the pockets of your hanging mail organizer.   STEP 4: Measure 1 inch from the bottom of the large rectangle. Pin one of the smaller rectangles on it. Sew them together. This is the bottom pocket of your mail organizer. You can hand stitch the pockets of your mail organizer if a sewing is not available.   STEP 5: Above the first pocket, pin and sew the second pocket (smaller rectangle). Be sure that the first pocket will cover up the seam of the second one above it. Attach the second pocket of your mail organizer.   STEP 6: Sew the edges together. The distance between the two vertical seams must be the same as the cardboard width. Sew the pieces of your a mail organizer together.   STEP 7: Turn the fabric wrong side up, place the cardboard on top of it and cut off the corners. Either round the corner of your mail organizer or cut it diagonally.   STEP 8: Using a glue gun, fix the fabric on the cardboard. You can use clips or clothespins to hold the fabric while you glue. Use a glue gun to attach the pockets of your mail organizer to the cardboard.   STEP 9: Put your mail organizer in the frame and glue them together. For a wall mail organizer, hang the mail organizer on the wall using two small screw eyes on the back of the frame and putting a wire between. You can also place magnets at the back if you want to put it on your fridge. Attach a wire or magnet strips at the back of your mail organizer to hang it.   And that’s it, your cute hanging mail organizer is ready to use.   Viola! Your wall mounted mail organizer.   Do you need more organizer ideas? Check out these easy DIYs. Spring Cleaning Checklist – Get Organized How to Make a Magnetic Chalkboard How To Make A Little Cardboard Suitcase | Craft Projects

Looking for another way to stay warm this winter? Why not craft your cozy blankets and pillows? These simple DIY projects are perfect for chilly nights and bring some handmade charm to your space. Whether it’s a no-sew fleece blanket, a chunky knit throw, or an upcycled sweater pillow, you’re sure to find a project that fits your style and skill level. Let’s dive in and get crafting! DIY Warm & Snuggly Home Projects: Blanket and Pillow Edition Ready to add some warmth to your space with simple, delightful DIYs? These no-sew fleece blankets, chunky knit throws, and upcycled sweater pillows require minimal effort. Ideal for beginners or anyone looking for an easy, handmade gift idea, these finished creations help make your space feel extra inviting. No-Sew Fleece Blankets: Simple and Cozy DIY Fun If you need a quick, beginner-friendly project, the no-sew fleece blanket is for you. Once completed, you’ll have soft, warm, customizable blankets featuring your favorite patterns or colors. Supplies Needed Two pieces of fleece fabric (each 1.5–2 yards for a full-size blanket) Sharp fabric scissors Tape measure or ruler Step-by-Step Instructions Layer the Fleece: Place both fleece pieces on a flat surface and align the edges neatly. Cut the Fringe: Next, cut 1-inch-wide strips, about 4 inches deep, along all four edges of the fleece. Knot the Fringe: Afterward, tie each pair of fringe strips in double knots to secure the layers. Presto! Now you have a DIY cozy blanket that’s ready for your next movie night in under an hour! Tip: Use fleece colors or patterns that match your room’s theme. For more ideas, explore Joann’s Fabric Guide for selecting high-quality fleece. DIY Chunky Knit Throw: Ultimate Cozy Comfort Chunky knit throws are on top of the list for the ultimate in coziness. No needles? No problem! You can arm-knit your way to a luxurious throw in less than an hour. Supplies Needed 3–4 pounds of chunky yarn (merino wool or chenille are ideal for a soft finish) A clean, flat surface Step-by-Step Instructions Start with a Slip Knot: First, start with a simple slip knot, leaving a 4-inch tail. Cast On Loops: Then, use your fingers to cast on about 20-25 loops, forming your first row. Arm-Knit Rows: Pull new yarn through each loop to create new rows. Bind Off: When you reach your desired length, bind off by tying the last row securely and trimming any excess yarn. In just 30-45 minutes, you’ll have a cozy, chunky knit blanket ready for snuggling! Fun Fact: Arm knitting is a popular and beginner-friendly method that’s easy to learn. If you need a quick how-to guide, Yarnspirations has a wonderful arm-knitting tutorial with simple steps. Upcycled Sweater Pillows: Cozy and Sustainable DIY Don’t toss out that old sweater just yet! Instead, give it a second life as a cozy pillow. This upcycled project is simple, stylish, and sustainable! Supplies Needed An old sweater (wool or cotton works best for durability) Pillow stuffing or a pillow insert Fabric scissors Fabric glue or needle and thread Step-by-Step Instructions Cut the Sweater: First, cut a square or rectangle around the body of the sweater. Seal Three Sides: After that, use fabric glue or a simple running stitch to close three sides, creating a pocket. Stuff the Pillow: Insert the pillow stuffing or pillow form, then close the final edge. And just like that, you’ve transformed an old sweater into a cute, comfy, and eco-friendly pillow! Eco-Friendly Tip: For more creative ways to repurpose old items, check out Better Homes & Gardens’ guide to upcycling projects. DIY Cozy Blankets Make the Perfect Gift Handmade gifts like these show thoughtfulness and effort, making them perfect for loved ones. With endless ways to customize—from colors to embellishments, you can create truly unique pieces that warm both the body and the heart. Plus, they’re practical! Who wouldn’t appreciate an extra blanket or pillow during the colder months? Finishing Touches for Your DIY Cozy Blanket Now that you know how to make these cozy blankets, it’s time to apply some extra styles: Decorate with Trim: Adding pom-poms, tassels, or ribbons is a great way to finish the edges. Personalize with Initials: Consider adding a monogram or small design with fabric paint or simple embroidery for a personalized touch. Coordinate Colors: Choose colors that match or complement your home decor to make it extra special. Making DIY cozy blankets brings warmth and a touch of personality and style. So, dive into one of these fun projects and enjoy the comfort of something handmade. Happy crafting, y’all! FAQs What is the best fabric for a no-sew fleece blanket? Fleece is ideal for no-sew blankets because it doesn’t fray, so you can easily cut and knot it without needing to hem the edges. Plus, it’s soft, warm, and available in various colors and patterns! How much fleece fabric do I need for a standard-size throw blanket? Typically, 1.5 to 2 yards of fleece for each layer (two layers total) is ideal for a cozy throw-sized blanket. Adjust the yardage for larger or smaller blankets based on your preference. Can I wash a chunky knit throw made from merino wool? Yes, but be careful! Hand wash your chunky knit throw in cold water, but avoid wringing it afterward. Doing so can stretch the fibers and loosen the fabric. Lay the item flat when drying to help it maintain its shape. Is arm knitting difficult? Not at all! Arm knitting is easy to pick up, even for beginners. Most people find it fun, especially since you don’t need tools—just your hands and some chunky yarn! How can I make sure my upcycled sweater pillow holds up over time? Choose a sweater made of wool, cotton, or another sturdy fabric for durability. Be sure to use strong fabric glue or sewing stitches to secure the pillow seams and prevent them from splitting. How can I make my no-sew blanket look more decorative? For unique designs, consider adding finishing touches like pom-pom trims, fringes, or even fabric paint. Coordinating the blanket colors with your home decor can also elevate the look. Are there eco-friendly options for DIY chunky knit yarn? Yes! Look for yarn made from recycled materials or sustainably sourced fibers. Some brands offer vegan options, and chenille or cotton yarns can also be eco-friendly and cozy. Do I need any special skills to make these DIY blankets? No sewing skills are required for the no-sew fleece blanket and chunky knit throw! However, if you want to sew the upcycled sweater pillow, a basic running stitch will work fine, and it’s a skill that’s easy to learn. How do I add a personal touch to a DIY blanket or pillow for a gift? Adding initials, a monogram, or a small design with fabric paint or embroidery can make the item feel extra special. Customizing the colors or patterns based on the recipient’s taste is also a thoughtful touch. Can I use other types of fabric for a no-sew blanket? Fleece is recommended because it won’t fray, but some thick, non-fraying fabrics like felt might work, too. Just make sure the fabric is soft and comfortable, especially for a cozy blanket!

    A famous quote by Julia Child says, “A party without cake is just a meeting.” But in our house, we say, “A party without guacamole is simply not a party.” Our family loves guacamole. My little one has always love avocados since I introduced him to it. Now that he’s a bit more grown up, he enjoys his avocados in the form of a guacamole dip. But as moms out there know, one of the biggest dilemmas when cooking is that we sometimes have to create a baby version and an adult version of the same recipe. The guacamole that that my toddler loves is quite different from the one my husband prefers. The guacamole that we make at home is from the guacamole recipe my husband learned while working at a Mexican restaurant in the United States. Which is a mix of Pico de Gallo (chopped onions, tomatoes, and peppers, seasoned with cilantro) and an avocado purée, made separately and then combined, making it easy to customize the recipe for different people. Case in point, my toddler prefers eating the avocado purée on its own, while my husband needs to add in a bit more Pico de Gallo in his version of this guacamole recipe. And me? I’m happy either way, and eat a bit of everybody else’s. The one thing that my husband and son agrees on though is eating guacamole with nacho chips or fajitas. I, on the other hand, love to use it as a condiment for just about anything.   Let’s start making this super easy guacamole recipe.   Aside from chips you can also use your guacamole dip for fajitas. What You Need:  Pico de Gallo Tomato ½ Onion ½ Lime Chopped Jalapeño (Or other spicy pepper, to taste) Chopped Cilantro Salt to taste Guacamole 2 Large Avocadoes ¼ cup Pico de Gallo 1-2 cloves of Garlic, minced ½ lime Dash of Olive Oil Cumin, Salt, and more minced Jalapeño (to taste) How to Make Guacamole Start your guacamole recipe with Pico de Gallo. Chop the ingredients for your guacamole dip. STEP 1: First, prepare the Pico de Gallo. Chop the onion, tomato and pepper into small pieces. Make your simple guacamole special by adding Pico de Gallo. You can choose not to mix the Pico de Gallo with your guacamole and serve it on the side. STEP 2: Add the juice of half of a lime, some chopped cilantro and salt to taste. Set your Pico de Gallo aside. Your Pico de Gallo can be a dip separate to your guacamole. STEP 3: After preparing your Pico de Gallo, it’s time to prepare your guacamole. Start by cutting your avocados in half, remove the seed, and scoop out the avocado flesh into a bowl.Mash the avocado with the juice of half of a lime, the minced garlic, and a dash of olive oil. Make your guacamole dip more exciting with Pico de Gallo. Surprise your guests with this variation of guacamole. STEP 4: Add the Pico de Gallo, and the rest of the ingredients, to taste. Serve your guacamole with chips. I use guacamole on everything. I even put it on my hamburger. TIP: I couldn’t find jalapeño peppers here in my area of Spain, so I improvised a bit and used different type of pepper that’s similar in taste with the jalapeño for this guacamole recipe. Feel free to play around with this recipe. Don’t be afraid to customize your own dip with similar local ingredients. Using this guacamole recipe you can make a batch for your kid and one for your husband. Try these super cute serving bowls for your guacamole and pico! Do you want more easy recipes? Click on the links below for some of the easiest and tastiest recipes around: How To Weave Bacon For The Ultimate BLT How to Make Baked Potatoes Easy Homemade Ice Cream Recipe

A Texas woman faces up to 20 years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine for allegedly “smuggling rare Vietnamese chickens” into the United States. According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas, authorities took Jennifer Mayo into federal custody for “smuggling merchandise into the United States and illegal transfer of merchandise.” “According to the indictment, returned May 22, it is illegal to import poultry into the United States from regions where pathogenic avian influenza or Newcastle disease exist in commercial poultry populations unless specific conditions are met,” the press release read. “Mayo allegedly imported and brought into the United States Dong Tao Chicken eggs,” it added. “Authorities said they seized and euthanized the chickens due to their health,” KIII 3 News said in July. Jennifer Mayo of Aransas Pass turned herself in to authorities on June 27. Authorities said they seized and euthanized the chickens due to their health. https://t.co/hvSTsrMGii — KIII 3 News (@kiii3news) July 1, 2024 From the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas: She is also charged with illegal importation and transfer of merchandise. Mayo allegedly facilitated the transportation and concealment of merchandise imported contrary to law – Dong Tao chicken eggs and hatchlings. The indictment also includes a notice of forfeiture for the chickens and eggs. As part of the investigation, authorities seized the chickens mentioned in the indictment. Due to their health, they had to be euthanized and are being held pending further investigation and evaluation. If convicted, Mayo faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. RedState writer Jeff Charles shared further details about Mayo’s story. “Meet Jennifer Mayo, a chicken farmer in South Texas who had her life turned upside down after armed federal agents raided her home over chicken eggs. Jennifer started with a handful of chickens and grew her business into a thriving operation featuring rare breeds like the Dong Tao. But after bringing eggs back from Vietnam—openly and with no objections at customs—her farm was raided by 40 armed agents. They killed her prized birds and shut down her farm,” Charles wrote. “Now, she’s facing federal charges that could result in a 20-year prison sentence. Jennifer says she’s innocent. ‘I believed I was following the rules. Customs let me through, and I assumed everything was fine.’ Her court-appointed attorney pressured her to take a plea deal without even giving her the discovery materials. He sprung the deal on her the day before she was required to sign it,” he added. Meet Jennifer Mayo, a chicken farmer in South Texas who had her life turned upside down after armed federal agents raided her home over chicken eggs. Jennifer started with a handful of chickens and grew her business into a thriving operation featuring rare breeds like the Dong… pic.twitter.com/0hmav2Ledl — Jeff Charles, Doni's St. Bernard (@jeffcharlesjr) November 23, 2024 Per RedState: Mayo’s ordeal began in 2023 when she traveled to Vietnam to visit her brother. During her trip, she purchased Dong Tao eggs from a government-operated farm. Confident that she had followed all of the rules, she brought the eggs back to the United States. She passed multiple customs inspections without an issue. “I told the lady [in Vietnam], ‘I’m taking these eggs to America if they let me,’ and she was like, ‘Oh, that’s great,’” Mayo recalled. Mayo went through customs in the Philippines on her way back to Texas. The eggs were inspected before she boarded the plane. “They searched through my bags. The guy said, ‘What kind of egg is this?’ And I said, ‘It’s chicken. Chicken eggs.’ He said, ‘Okay,’ and sent me on my way.” Mayo proceeded to LAX, where she planned to declare her possession of the eggs. “I get to LAX, still nothing… It was completely my intent to declare them,” she said, adding that she didn’t see a single customs agent as the airport was under construction. “What I had read on the website for customs was that it was at the discretion of the customs agent. So I was like, ‘If they let me through, they let me through. If they don’t, I had a wonderful experience on this trip,” she said. Excited about her purchase, Mayo told her friends on Facebook about the process. But the excitement would soon turn to horror. A team of heavily armed federal agents raided Mayo’s farm in July 2023. The officers also detained her tenants, placing them in handcuffs. “I refuse to stand by while the federal government tramples Jennifer Mayo’s rights. This small farmer turned her passion into a thriving business, only to have armed agents raid her home, destroy her livelihood, and kill her prized Dong Tao chickens—all over eggs she brought back openly through customs. Now, they want to throw her in prison for 20 years. With your support, we can help her fight back,” X user ‘DoniTheMisfit’ wrote. “We were successful at helping Jennifer withdraw her coerced guilty plea which exposed the incompetence of her court-appointed attorney. But the government isn’t backing down—they’re trying to force a pretrial on December 3rd and a jury trial on December 9th, rushing to convict her without giving her the fair chance every American deserves. She still doesn’t have her discovery and her court appointed attorney, again refused to give it to her,” she continued. “The government had no authority to raid her property, kill her animals, or destroy her business. What they’ve done is theft—plain and simple. Whether they’re using a badge or a courtroom, their actions violate the 4th, 5th, and 14th Amendments. This isn’t just about Jennifer; this is about the rights of every individual to own, use, and protect their property without fear of government overreach,” she added. I refuse to stand by while the federal government tramples Jennifer Mayo’s rights. This small farmer turned her passion into a thriving business, only to have armed agents raid her home, destroy her livelihood, and kill her prized Dong Tao chickens—all over eggs she brought… pic.twitter.com/QpMGO6r8EF — Doni (@DoniTheMisfit) November 23, 2024 “Mayo is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 23, 2025,” the Department of Homeland Security wrote. “Safeguarding American agriculture from biological threats is vital to our national security,” said HSI Houston acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Kurtz. “HSI is committed to working alongside our partners to prevent wildlife smuggling and the illegal importation of plants or animals that might be carrying invasive pests or diseases that could threaten our food supply,” Kurtz added. From Homeland Security Investigations: Vietnam and Cambodia are currently listed by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, the U.S. agency responsible for protecting U.S. agriculture from invasive pests and diseases, as regions affected with highly pathogenic avian influenza. APHIS has also not cleared Vietnam or Cambodia as being free from Virulent Newcastle disease, a highly contagious and fatal viral disease of birds and poultry that attacks their respiratory, nervous and digestive systems and is hard to detect. In the United States, it is illegal to import poultry from regions affected by highly pathogenic avian influenza or regions where Virulent Newcastle disease exist in commercial poultry populations, unless specific conditions are met. The investigation uncovered that Mayo illegally smuggled 60 Dong Tao chicken eggs into the United States from Vietnam and Cambodia in August 2023 and attempted to hatch them at her home in Ingleside. Mayo initially reported to law enforcement that all the animals that hatched had died. However, authorities conducted subsequent checks which revealed there were multiple live Dong Tao chickens on her property. Dong Tao chickens are a rare, expensive breed of chicken typical to southeast Asia. Originally from the village of Dong Tao in Vietnam, these chickens have very large legs as their identifying feature. Jeff Charles interviewed Jennifer Mayo on “A Fresh Perspective”: