{Halloween DIY} Skull Bookends

Whew! That was a much-needed weekend! It felt so good to step away from work and responsibilities, and just have fun! This weekend was all about my son's Science Fair project <i>(which involved dry ice and a fog machine!)</i> and finally picking out costumes. Basically, whipping them up in a Halloween frenzy! I hope yours was equally fun and relaxing.<br /><br />A few weeks ago, when I was picking up <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/09/cool-tip-ikea-ribba-hack.html" target="_blank">my $2 custom mats</a> at Michaels, I spotted giant plaster skull heads...which of course got me thinking of project ideas.<i> (That's totally normal behavior for a home blogger, Mom, no cause for concern.) </i>I immediately thought of <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/02/diy-animal-bookends.html" target="_blank">my elephant bookends</a>, and wondered if I could do something similar.<br /><br />So I texted <a href="http://www.huntedinterior.com/" target="_blank">Kristin</a> to see if it would be too weird to cut a head in half. Because using a skull, and cutting a skull, are two different things. When she didn't accuse me of being Dexter, I proceeded. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Skull Bookends" height="760" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3936/14938196513_4302794dfb_b.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />Fortunately, my contractor was around that day <i>(I know, I know, I owe you a <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/search/label/big%20box%20bathroom%20remodel" target="_blank">Big Box Bathroom</a> update!! It's coming tomorrow!)</i>, and he slapped that skull on his fancy-pants saw, and cut it right down the middle. This part did kind of creep me out a bit...watching the blade come down on the head, with his thumb stuck through the eye socket!! I might have turned away. And no, my rockstar-contractor didn't think I was strange. He's used to me and my ideas. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Skull Bookends" height="531" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5609/15555696931_efb2311560_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />The plaster cut like butter <i>(even a hand saw would do the trick)</i>, and I sanded down any uneven edges. I thought about spraying them...but decided I love the white just the way it is. Let the record show my rare use of restraint.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Skull Bookends" height="665" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3952/15372239488_b1dd1903cb_b.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />Unlike <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/02/diy-animal-bookends.html" target="_blank">my animal bookends</a>, these already sit flat, and have enough heft, so there is no need to mount them to a base. <span style="font-size: x-small;">#TWSS</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Skull Bookends" height="447" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5598/15372743640_226dacab70_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Skull Bookends" height="564" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3933/14938196293_923655a6b7_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Consider me smitten! So much so, I can't even guarantee they'll come down after Halloween. How's the Halloween frenzy coming along at your house?

{Halloween DIY} Skull Bookends

Whew! That was a much-needed weekend! It felt so good to step away from work and responsibilities, and just have fun! This weekend was all a...

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{DIY} Pom Pom Throw

It's no secret I love tassels and pom poms...I've shamelessly been adding them to everything from <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/08/diy-tassel-pillow.html" target="_blank">pillows</a> and <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/08/5-steps-to-fabulous-foyer.html" target="_blank">purses</a>, to <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-no-sew-pom-pom-tree-skirt.html" target="_blank">tree skirts</a> and <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/05/diy-pom-pom-box.html" target="_blank">boxes</a>, and there doesn't seem to be an end in sight. Can there be too many adornments in a room or outfit? The jury is still out, but for me, I say<i> no way!</i> #gimmeallthepompoms<br /><br />After <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/09/diy-pom-pom-pillow.html" target="_blank">adding poms to my David-Hicks-look-a-like pillow</a>, I starting looking around for something else to pom. Yep, it's now a noun and a verb.  <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/50491685@N04/15521539395" title="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Throw by hi sugarplum!, on Flickr"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Throw" height="802" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5611/15521539395_1f1d0a1b97_b.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It didn't take long to choose this striped throw as my next victim. It's the <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10212129/" target="_blank">Eivor throw from Ikea</a>, and apparently it's a requisite for every home blogger to own one. I have three, does that make me a super-blogger, or a hoarder?! I digress.</div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Throw" height="767" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3938/15494410271_51a1233cd3_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />I used <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/09/diy-pom-pom-pillow.html" target="_blank">this method</a>, but instead of wrapping the yarn around my hand, I used a 5-inch upholstery hoop for larger poms. Then I just tied them through small holes I made at the end of the blanket. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Throw" height="625" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3927/15518110671_2e08b59dcd_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/50491685@N04/15310897148" title="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Throw by hi sugarplum!, on Flickr"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Throw" height="728" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3939/15310897148_e145f45047_b.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><br />I love the added touch of personality it brings to this neutral room. #harhar And I don't know if it's the stripes or pom poms, but it looks good everywhere in the house!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Throw" height="672" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2947/15494410321_3cee6952aa_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />And talk about smitten...I recently added the <a href="http://goo.gl/5Hl6QB" target="_blank">watercolor floral pillow</a> to the mix, c/o <a href="http://goo.gl/5Hl6QB" target="_blank">Tonic Living</a>...and I couldn't love it more! I've been searching high-and-low for the perfect pillow to connect all the pieces in our Living Room, and I'm thrilled to have finally found it. I know it's meant to be because it looks great on the sofa, and in both chairs in the room.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Throw" height="700" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2945/15474418806_cd859b13d6_b.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Throw" height="688" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3940/15310897008_22d1e8325a_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/50491685@N04/15520855132" title="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom throw by hi sugarplum!, on Flickr"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom throw" height="755" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5612/15520855132_775efb4ce2_b.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Blue Velvet Pillows: <a href="http://bit.ly/1D9rOom" target="_blank">World Market</a></div><br /><br />Do you play musical pillows and throws, too? Are you cuckoo for pom poms?! Tell me I'm not alone in my addiction!!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{More Fun Throws Just Waiting for Pom Poms}</b></div><br /><div class="shopthepost-widget" data-widget-id="316600"><script type="text/javascript">!function(d,s,id){var e, p = /^http:/.test(d.location) ? 'http' : 'https';if(!d.getElementById(id)) {e = d.createElement(s);e.id = id;e.src = p + '://' + 'widgets.rewardstyle.com' + '/js/shopthepost.js';d.body.appendChild(e);}if(typeof window.__stp === 'object') if(d.readyState === 'complete') {window.__stp.init();}}(document, 'script', 'shopthepost-script');</script><br /><div class="rs-adblock"><img onerror="this.parentNode.innerHTML='Disable your ad blocking software to view this content.'" src="//assets.rewardstyle.com/images/search/350.gif" style="height: 15px; width: 15px;" /><noscript>JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.</noscript></div></div><br /><br /><div style="line-height: 24px; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Click the links to catch-up on the room's makeover:</span></i></div><div style="line-height: 24px; text-align: center;"></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">LIVING ROOM TO-DO LIST</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Paint room</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><strike><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/06/moroccan-shag-rug.html" style="color: #f0308c; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Replace the Rug</span></a></strike></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/08/living-room-blue-beauty.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Paint Armoire</span></strike></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/09/living-room-painting-brick-fireplace.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Paint Brick</span></strike></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/10/living-room-mirror-mirror.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">New Mirror & Mantel Styling</span></strike></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/07/living-room-bookcase-makeover.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Paint/Fabric Bookcases</strike></a> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/08/living-room-finished-bookcases.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Re-Style Bookcases</span></strike></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/09/living-room-console-table-tiles.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Paint (Replace) Table Tiles</span></strike></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><strike><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/01/chalk-this-up-as-done.html#more" style="color: #f0308c; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Paint Hall Chest</span></a></strike></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2013/11/its-her-time-to-shine.html" style="color: #f0308c; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strike>Paint/Wallpaper Nook Walls</strike></a><strike> </strike> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><strike><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2013/11/shine-baby-shine.html" style="color: #f0308c; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Style Nook Area</a> </strike> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/01/chalk-this-up-as-done.html" style="color: #f0308c; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strike><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Paint Nook Chest </span></strike></a></div><div style="line-height: 24px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Paint Backdoor</span>?</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Add Nailhead to Wingchair</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/04/living-room-new-chair-cushions.html" style="color: #f0308c; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strike><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">New Covers for Barrel Chair Cushions</span></strike></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/08/living-room-chosen-lamps.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Change Out Lamps</span></a></strike></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/10/diy-metallic-lined-lampshades.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Customize Lamps</strike></a> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/03/lamp-looza-winners-hiding-those-pesky.html" style="color: #f0308c; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">These are the Real and Final Lamps</a></strike></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sand & Stain Secretary</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Gold Leaf Back of Secretary</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/01/living-room-pillow-talk.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sofa Pillows Round 1</span></strike></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/02/bullseye.html" style="color: #f0308c; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sofa Pillows Round 2</span></a></strike></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/10/living-room-adding-some-accessories.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Add Some Coordinated Accessories</span></a></strike></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #d12057; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/09/living-room-gold-goddess.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">Determine Fate of Side Table</a></span></strike></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #121212; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/11/look-ma-no-hole.html" style="color: #d12057; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><strike style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Close the Hole, Baby!</span></strike></a></div>

{DIY} Pom Pom Throw

It's no secret I love tassels and pom poms...I've shamelessly been adding them to everything from pillows and purses , to tree skir...

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{DIY} Pom Pom Pillow

When the producers of the blogging video <i>(I shared it with you guys <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/09/that-time-i-made-video-about-blogging.html" target="_blank">here</a>)</i> informed me I'd actually be creating a project on-camera, I knew it needed to be something simple, quick, and wouldn't require me to get sweaty or curse.<i> (I can't promise I didn't swear, so thank goodness for editing.)</i><br /><br />I've loved <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/36451078209516134/" target="_blank">this pillow</a> from Amber Interiors Shoppe for awhile, but wanted to recreate it myself, and for a lot cheaper. There are no shortage of pom pom tutorials online <i>(including <a href="http://goo.gl/uttUNG" target="_blank">this one</a> from my talented friend <a href="http://goo.gl/uttUNG" target="_blank">Kristin of Hunted Interior</a>)</i>, but I ended up combining a few methods for one that worked best for me. It turned out to be perfect for the <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/09/that-time-i-made-video-about-blogging.html" target="_blank">video</a>, and one of my favorite projects! Plus, it's fun to say Pom Pom Pillow.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="682" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5554/15260065895_9acc5ca3a3_b.jpg" width="550" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">// <a href="http://bit.ly/1ARooU7" target="_blank">Blue Chair (on sale!)</a> // <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/01/chalk-this-up-as-done.html" target="_blank">Nook Makeover</a> //</div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{What You Need}</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Pillow Cover</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(This David Hicks 'La Florentina' look-a-like is $10 at Hobby Lobby! #score)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yarn </div><div style="text-align: center;">Scissors</div><div style="text-align: center;">Embroidery Needle</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="445" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3857/15237059706_caf21d67f8_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{What You Do}</b></div><br />Hold the end of the yarn, then start wrapping it around your fingers. If you want larger poms, use a bigger surface like a piece of cardboard, and likewise for smaller poms.<br /><br /><i>Tip: Don't wrap too tightly, you want to be able to slip it off your hand easily.</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="429" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3889/15073371370_fe32c37632_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Continue wrapping the yarn until you have a big bundle. I wrapped mine about 60 times.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="437" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3911/15260066815_f34e7e24c1_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div>Gently slide the ball off your fingers, and place it on a 10-inch long strand of cut yarn. #twss<br /><br /><i>Tip: Cut the longer strand before wrapping the yarn on your hand, so it's ready for this step.</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="371" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5559/15256968301_3bd4cdac72_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Tie the yarn tightly around the middle of the bundle, flip over, and tie again.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="401" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5551/15260066625_27ddcf135b_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Slide the scissors through the loops and cut.<br /><br /><i>Tip: Careful not to cut the two long strands tied around the middle.</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="428" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5582/15073494087_37f0f4a1a3_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Once all the loops are cut, you're left with a shaggy pom pom.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="449" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5563/15073370880_03b36ef6df_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Trim the ends to even them out and make the pom look thicker.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="419" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3906/15256967911_edb10e9617_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="617" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5565/15073493857_c7d4de8cc0_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Use an embroidery needle to thread the long piece of yarn through the corner of the pillow, tie in place, and trim the excess ends.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="473" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3926/15237058986_5f289764fa_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Hello, adorable!! <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="671" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/15256967561_03891f7793_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Pom Pom Pillow" height="637" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15260065715_940997c45c_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />I can't get enough of these cute pom poms, and even tied one to my new bag!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3876/14823942286_f69894ac24_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3876/14823942286_f69894ac24_b.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">// <a href="http://bit.ly/1r3JlbT" target="_blank">similar bag (50% off!)</a> // <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/08/5-steps-to-fabulous-foyer.html" target="_blank">Entrance Hall reveal</a> //</div><br />Remember my <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/08/diy-tassel-pillow.html" target="_blank">{DIY} Tassel Pillow</a>? Is there anything not made cuter by the addition of pom poms or tassels?!  #nope 

{DIY} Pom Pom Pillow

When the producers of the blogging video (I shared it with you guys here ) informed me I'd actually be creating a project on-camera, I ...

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{DIY} Monogrammed Straw Tote

Many of you know we lived in Nashville for 10 years, before moving back to Texas to be closer to family. It's funny how you can't wait to fly the coop when you're young, but once you start a family of your own, you yearn to be as close to home as possible. We love Texas, but we certainly left a big piece of our hearts in Tennessee.<br /><br />Fortunately, we're able to visit our best Nashville friend <i>(I say 'our' because she's as much Mr. SP's friend as mine)</i>, every year. This Summer we hosted them for a fun week at our house...and I wanted to surprise her sweet girls with <i>'Welcome to Texas'</i> goodie bags. <a href="http://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2F%23%3Flnk%3Dicon_t_spc_1_0&pid=uid7924-1475882-20" target="_blank">Target Dollar Spot</a> is always my first stop for little treats, and they didn't disappoint with these cute color-blocked tote bags. And of course I slapped a monogram on them.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Monogrammed Tote" height="760" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3840/14993956429_12f0c0e327_b.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />I've <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/08/diy-monogrammed-bag-link-party.html" target="_blank">painted monograms on bags in the past</a>, but wanted to try something a little unique this go-round.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{What You Need}</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Straw-style Tote Bag</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rope</div><div style="text-align: center;">Embroidery Thread or Yarn</div><div style="text-align: center;">Embroidery Needle</div><div style="text-align: center;">Glue Gun</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Monogrammed Tote" height="530" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3883/14993957079_869fa8391b_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{What You Do}</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Start by creating the shape of your letter with the rope, then hot glue in place.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Monogrammed Tote" height="646" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3888/14994124478_dc36bd928f_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />If you want something more exact or ornate, you could glue a thin chipboard or wooden letter.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Monogrammed Tote" height="559" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3869/15157679036_0e20c4ee8e_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Then set yourself up in front of the TV, the more ridiculous the show, the better, and 'sew' the letter in place. I love how the sisal rope pokes out giving it a more rustic feel.<br /><br /><i>Tip: Double your thread in the needle to cover more rope with each pass. Your thumb will thank you. </i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Monogrammed Tote" height="550" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5591/14994122548_ba154b3b3a_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Monogrammed Tote" height="660" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3908/15157678226_2132d734b4_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />The girls were thrilled with their custom bags, and toted them around all week. #seewhatIdidthere I'm kind of wishing I'd made one for myself. Maybe when the feeling returns to my thumb.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Monogrammed Tote" height="755" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3861/15180703435_95cc793492_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Monogrammed Tote" height="770" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5582/14993956649_c8b6a5439e_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div>If I were a better blogger, I'd have cute pics of these darling girls and their bags. But instead, I unplugged the days they were here, and we smothered them with lots of love and attention. Goodbyes are the worst. But we know we'll have next Summer.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Monogrammed Tote" height="550" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5567/14994149297_385a790df8_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Monogrammed Tote" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5579/15177696281_1d90c59b85_z.jpg" width="549" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">my maxi dress found <a href="http://bit.ly/1w8MrzL" target="_blank">here</a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Have you worked on any end-of-Summer craft projects? Does the <a href="http://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2F%23%3Flnk%3Dicon_t_spc_1_0&pid=uid7924-1475882-20" target="_blank">Target Dollar Spot</a> take all your money, too??!!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{More Tote Bag Projects}</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2013/08/diy-dip-dyed-ombre-bag.html" target="_blank">Dip-Dyed Ombre</a> | <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/08/diy-monogrammed-bag-link-party.html" target="_blank">Monogrammed Bag</a> | <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2013/09/diy-stenciled-tote.html" target="_blank">Stenciled Totes</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{More Monogrammed Projects}</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2013/09/diy-monogrammed-glass-jar.html" target="_blank">Painted Glass Jar</a> | <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2013/05/teacher-appreciation-gift-etched.html" target="_blank">Etched Monogram</a> | <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2011/03/crafty-cassie-monogramming-pelmet.html" target="_blank">Window Pelmet</a> | <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2013/05/spruced-up-porch.html" target="_blank">Door Mat</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Pssst....Tonight is the last chance to shop my <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/09/my-joss-main-sale-is-live.html" target="_blank">Joss & Main Curator Collection! </a></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://photos-h.ak.instagram.com/hphotos-ak-xaf1/10654848_676699382427143_1959628934_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="http://photos-h.ak.instagram.com/hphotos-ak-xaf1/10654848_676699382427143_1959628934_n.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>

{DIY} Monogrammed Straw Tote

Many of you know we lived in Nashville for 10 years, before moving back to Texas to be closer to family. It's funny how you can't wa...

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{Quickie Project} Mini Succulent Planter

If I were President, my first order of business would be to declare every weekend a three-day weekend. Who would vote for me?! I mean, really, what do we need to do to get that done?! We had a lovely weekend, that was equal parts lazy and productive. With Summer camps and vacations over, and school underway, it felt good to just be home, enjoying the pool and each other. I hope you had a great one, too!<br /><br />Last week, Babygirl and I found ourselves with an hour to burn at the tire store. We could either sit in the stinky waiting room until the car was done, or walk across the street to Wal-Mart <i>(the only store within walking distance).</i> It was a tough call, actually. No offense to Wal-Mart, but you know how it is...some are pretty nice, and others you don't want to even step foot in the parking lot!<br /><br />Eventually, the smell of rubber got to us, and we ventured to Wal-Mart. We were both really surprised, and pretty excited, however, by the the size of their craft department...and rounded up some fun new supplies...which led to these adorable little succulent planters.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Succulent Pot" height="715" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3887/14925551487_0ed5ed25f2_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />The pattern of the bungee cord reminded me of the <a href="http://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fc%2Fall-nate-berkus-brand-shop%2F-%2FN-567ob%23%3Flnk%3Dlnav_shop%2520categories_1&pid=uid7924-1475882-20" target="_blank">Nake Berkus line for Target</a>, so I scooped it up first.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{What You Need}</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cord or Rope</div><div style="text-align: center;">Terracotta Pot</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paint</div><div style="text-align: center;">Gravel Rocks used for Aquariums</div><div style="text-align: center;">Glue Gun</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Succulent Planter" height="473" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3847/15109604471_4a4d128644_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{What You Do}</b></div><br />Start by painting the top band of the pot, and let it dry. Make sure to paint the rim, too, since it will be visible.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Succulent Pot" height="558" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5566/15111737032_10f604b704_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Wrap the cord around the pot, using hot glue to adhere each row in place.<br /><br /><i>Tip: Use thin cord if your pot is small so you see more pattern. My pots are only about 3-inches, so a thick rope would only wrap a few times.</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Succulent Pot" height="613" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5551/15109094541_32c11a198d_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Plant the succulent and cover the exposed soil with the rocks for an unexpected pop of color.<br /><br /><i>Tip: Don't use prickly cactus if kids are within hearing distance. #mo$&%f*#$er</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Succulent Pot" height="687" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3847/14925416809_3a196f5732_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Succulent Pot" height="750" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5563/14925456570_f82b0a13e0_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Mine are currently cheering up my Kitchen window, but they'd be cute used on tablesettings...don't you think? You could easily tuck a little name tag in it for a place card.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Succulent Pot" height="693" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5586/14925551577_30491504f8_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Succulent Pot" height="531" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3895/14925532378_40a920ece1_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Succulent Pot" height="673" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3852/14925456750_684b7a9eed_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />I love quick and simple projects like this! Not to mention cheap. These planters were only a few bucks each. Well, plus the cost of new tires. What'd you get in to this weekend?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>More Planter Projects:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/05/pinterest-project-animal-air-planter.html" target="_blank">Animal Air Planter</a> | <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/05/plants-planters.html" target="_blank">Sea Shell Planter</a> | <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/08/diy-ombre-basket.html" target="_blank">Ombre Basket Planter</a> | <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/03/diy-dollar-store-terrariums.html" target="_blank">Dollar Store Terrariums</a> | <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2012/05/striped-pots-and-q-free-for-all.html" target="_blank">Lacquer Striped Pots</a></div>

{Quickie Project} Mini Succulent Planter

If I were President, my first order of business would be to declare every weekend a three-day weekend. Who would vote for me?! I mean, reall...

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{DIY} Hola! Doormat

As part of our <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2013/04/home-depot-challenge-patio-reveal.html" target="_blank">latest Home Depot Patio Style Challenge</a>, we've been sprucing up the backyard. I thought we'd finished last year, but there are always new projects to be done, right? Especially outside, where things wear out more quickly...namely doormats.<br /><br />With all the tracking in-and-out, our mats usually only last a season or two. I finally wised-up and stopped buying cute, but pricey, door mats, and now go with the durable, yet affordable, <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80047635/" target="_blank">$5 Ikea mats</a>. They start off plain, but fortunately, that's an easy fix with some paint and a stencil.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Colorblocked Doormat" height="765" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3844/14491797775_13fb6414e2_b.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />Minus the cute pup, the 'before' shot isn't much to look at. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Colorblock Doormat" height="685" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5527/14446329315_6af9440c83_o.jpg" width="550" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{What You Need}</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Coir Mat<i> (I used this rubber-backed one from <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80047635/" target="_blank">Ikea</a>)</i> <span style="font-size: x-small;">#<span style="font-size: xx-small;">TWSS</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Vinyl Letters Used as Stencil <i>('Hola' decal from <a href="http://goo.gl/OfD3xa" target="_blank">The Vinyl Company</a>)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Spraypaint</div><div style="text-align: center;">Painters Tape</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Colorblock Doormat" height="479" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3856/14259720260_fb1e61153b_o.jpg" width="550" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>{What You Do}</b></div><br />Tape off the area you want to place the stencil, and paint light, even layers. Let dry completely.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Colorblock Doormat" height="412" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5518/14442968351_450c645b52_o.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />Remove painters tape, and place stencil over painted area, pressing firmly for a good seal. Obviously with the course texture of the mat, you won't get perfectly clean edges, but you want to avoid as much seepage as possible. <i>Side note: 'seepage' should be banned from the English language. Agreed?</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Colorblock Doormat" height="413" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3896/14423198596_e69afd48e8_o.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />With the stencil firmly in place, tape off the area you don't want painted.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Colorblock Doormat" height="412" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5511/14259881537_8e551bc013_o.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />Then cover completely with light, even layers of paint.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | DIY Colorblock Doormat" height="446" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5077/14259719790_5c68903a0f_o.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Once that's fully dry, peel off the tape and stencil...and BAM! Or I guess I should say...HOLA! <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Colorblocked Doormat" height="785" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2926/14468694186_58f27239df_b.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />I love the unexpected dose of personality in this little mat...such a cheerful welcome for our friends and family.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Colorblocked Doormat" height="743" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5077/14490583192_2bc015a053_b.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />Can you even handle Maggie's crossed paws?! All she needs is a set of maracas and this scene is complete.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Colorblocked Doormat" height="710" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3902/14490583002_469031b233_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Are you doing any backyard projects? Stay tuned for more simple outdoor DIYs, and the refreshed patio space soon!

{DIY} Hola! Doormat

As part of our latest Home Depot Patio Style Challenge , we've been sprucing up the backyard. I thought we'd finished last year, but...

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