tinkered treasures

my instagram account was hacked

2022-04-13T15:41:00.003-04:00

hello!

I’m sending this to further broadcast the message that on April 2, 2022 my elyse.press.major Instagram account was hacked.

How it started

Someone I’m connected to on social media, who I’d written about years ago for a national magazine, obviously had their account hacked. I received a DM from the alleged friend on Instagram asking if I could help them get in the process to have their account verified (that little blue check mark). “Sure, how can I help?” In a momentary distracted lapse of judgment, I provided a requested screenshot which included my birthday, mobile phone number, and email address. I should’ve known better. Within minutes, I was locked out of my account, and soon the hacker began posting photos of mansions and cars – all encouraging others to invest in Bitcoin. Many friends could tell this couldn’t be me but some followers pursued!

How it’s going

At the time of the hack, my account had about 4500 followers and judging by the steady stream of texts, emails, and DMs received since 4/2, the hacker is on the loose with the same “can you please help me get my account verified” scam. Despite my postings of warnings and alerts to social media, friends and followers are falling for it and being hassled. Meanwhile, I try daily to get back into the account, failing miserably each time. At least seven video selfies have been denied. I even got back into the account twice and changed all of the contact information (phone number from Nigeria!) but when I went to post, I was asked to provide my new password (which I did), and was immediately booted out once again. My latest steps: submit a requested photo of myself holding a paper with a code written on it. Nope. Install Google Authenticator and get a set of codes to use as back-up. Nope.

I am extremely frustrated not only about the situation but about social media and how much it matters to all of us. There’s been good and there’s been harm and damage, and obviously even the small clubhouses in which we feel ownership, are not ours.

As of this posting, if you receive a message from "me" at elyse.press.major – please ignore or report. I have a new account at elyse.elizabeth.major and will be playing in that clubhouse until further notice.

Be well + alert, tinkerers!

elyse

let's make a sail boat in a jar

2020-08-02T08:00:00.002-04:00

Happy August! For those of you just tuning in, welcome to my Let's Make Sunday Series where I've resumed blogging to share easy projects using materials you are likely to already have at home. Some ideas presented

are brand new and some I originally developed for either my craft books or magazine features. Please note that this is a fun side project – I jump right into the instructions without lengthy musings and most images are just snapped using my iPhone. Nothin' fancy here, just simple makes. Today's project is fresh spin on Ship in a Jar from Seaside Tinkered Treasures.

The idea is to craft a small sailboat and place it in a jar... or just display as-is.

Here's how it appeared in my second book {an all-time fave layout/photo). Today's version is even simpler as we're leaving the jar lid as-is and skipping adding beads as frothy waves, but of course, the options are yours!

You will need:

Jar

Glue

Paper

Scissors

Short craft sticks

Toothpicks

I am using gift wrap from Sara Fitz

Snip the tip off one end of the toothpick so that it is flat; glue it to the craft stick.

Judge what size you'd like the sail to be. Fold a piece of paper in half and cut out a triangle. Voila! You know have a template. Slide over folded paper for same sized sails every time.

Cut a small slit inside the fold of your sail so that it can slip over the toothpick mast; lightly apply glue, fold shut, and gently seal.

Now you're sailing!

So cute, right!? Tip: The little sail boats also make adorable place settings, party favors, table decor.

So easy and fun you could end up making an entire fleet for a little lockdown regatta!

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

Find me on Instagram at or Facebook

let's make a cooking measurement magnet

2020-07-26T07:00:00.002-04:00

Welcome to my Let's Make Sunday Series where I've resumed blogging to share easy projects using materials you are likely to already have at home. As much as we try to support our local restaurants, we are still doing most of the cooking at home. I used to have a magnet with liquid measurements on it that was always so helpful so I thought – let's make one for this week's project!

You will need:
Jar lid
Glue
Magnet (or low-tack tape)
Paper
Pencil
Scissors

I looked up the cooking measurements I wanted and typed them into a Word document. You may click and download the image above, then print, or create your own. You could also hand-write on to a piece of paper.

One one document, I tried two different type sizes (11 and 12) leaving plenty of space to cut around the text.

Instead of using a math compass, this time I flipped the jar over around the text, traced lightly with a pencil, and cut out the circle.

First I glued a plain white circle to act as a base, helping to make the circle with the text look brighter against a white background.

Finally, glue a magnet to the back and keep on the fridge! I couldn't find a stray magnet so my "kitchen helper" is stuck on with a loop of painter's tape (low-tack making it easy to remove anytime).

I'm terrible at remembering this pints-to-quart stuff so I think this is going to come in very handy!

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

Find me on Instagram at or Facebook

let's make coasters

2020-07-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to my Let's Make Sunday Series where I've resumed blogging to share easy projects using materials you are likely to already have at home. I live in Rhode Island where it is currently summertime and cold drinks often require a coaster – so let's make some! No need to read three long paragraphs about summer and coasters and drinks, let's get right to it, shall we?

You will need:
Jar lids (I'm using lids from Bonne Maman preserves)
Cotton fabric
Math compass
Paper
Scissors

In a nutshell – or a lid – the goal is to cut a circle of fabric to fit the inside of a lid.

Tracing the lid won't give the best fit so I decided to get out the ol' math compass.

Position the point of the math compass to the center of the lid and then extend the arm holding the pencil close the inner edge.

Keeping the math compass "frozen" in position, move it over to a piece of paper {I'm using this cute handy pad from E. Frances}, position point-down and rotate the pencil to draw a circle. Cut out the circle to be your template. Use your template to cut as many fabric circles as you'd like. No math compass? No worries. Trace the bottom of a glass similar in size to your jar lid or just estimate – it will be fine.

Place the fabric circles into the lids and voila! Your summer coasters are complete.

I chose NOT to glue the fabric to the lids to keep them easy to remove to replace and wash, if needed.

If you are swooning over the fabric, I've had it for a while and it is Rambling Rose, Cherries, Blue from Tanya Whelan.

So cute, easy and fun, right!? Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

Find me on Instagram at or Facebook

let's make a jar lid wreath

2020-07-11T12:30:00.000-04:00

Happy Saturday! Welcome to my Let's Make series {posted a day early} where I've resumed blogging to share easy projects while we're all spending so much time at home. As you may have noticed, in my home we consume a lot of Bonne Maman preserves. (This is not a sponsored post but imagine!?) Not only are the preserves so yummy and very much like homemade but the jars are perfect for storing things, the labels are easily removed, and the lids are gingham! Because of this sweet "total package" I tend to keep each emptied jar and lid and while I've been using the containers as vases, the lids have started stacking up. It was time to tinker!

I decided to make a wreath. I first tried overlapping the lids and hot-gluing them together but the glue didn't hold and things got messy. Still, next, I tried hot-gluing lids to an embroidery hoop which served as a round base – didn't work. I then tried fashioning a web of tape to the back of the wreath shape – didn't work.

I decided to try super glue aka Loctite Instant Adhesive QuickTite. It was my first time using the stuff and as a messy crafter, I was nervous about gluing my fingers together. While I did get it all over my fingertips (which washed away in a couple of days) it did indeed bond the lids together.

You will need:

6-12 jar lids

Loctite Instant Adhesive QuickTite

Painter's tape

Rather than overlapping all lids, I made a daisy shape and it worked, so I glued another = two daisies.

I placed one daisy over the other and rotated it slightly. When it was positioned how I wanted it, I taped the two daisies in place with painter's tape – knowing I wanted to flip it all over for gluing so that any gluey spots would be hidden. I used painter's tape so that it would be easy to remove.

{I'm not one for perfection with my crafting and that's why I refer to it as tinkering}

I added glue to spots where lids connected, pressed gently, and rotated to glue the next spot.

Once all the gluing was done, I removed the tape from the front. It worked! The little metal wreath was complete, shown hanging from a trip of fabric.

The gingham makes it charming for the summertime but also for holiday decorating. But let's not get ahead of ourselves!

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

Find me on Instagram at or Facebook

let's make faux milk glass

2020-07-05T15:02:00.001-04:00

Happy July! Welcome to my Let's Make Sunday Series where I've resumed blogging to share easy projects while we're all spending so much time at home. It's been way too long since we tinkered with jars so for today's make, they're back!

This project originally appeared in my first book, my baby girl, Tinkered Treasures on page 70 as "painted jars" but because the result resembles milk glass, I decided just now to change the name for this post. Brazen, I know! While milk glass is typically white, depending on what paint you have on hand, you can make your own rules.

You will need:
Jar with lid
Paint (interior house, or craft)

Optional:
Pretty paper, scissors, glue
Trimming

As always begin with a glass jar that is clean and dry. The object of the game is to cover the interior of the jar with a thin coat of paint and let it dry, so you don't want to pour in too much, although you can always pour excess back out.

Return lid to jar and roll around to cover inside with paint until no glass is exposed.

Leave jar open and allow the paint inside to dry.

Cut out a motif from a favorite paper and affix to the outside of the jar using a bit of glue.

Add trimming and secure with glue, if you like, or leave plain. The jars are best used to hold dry objects; I generally tuck a cupcake wrapper inside to serve as a liner.

Now that I've rethought this project as milk glass, I want to make some using white paint or a jadeite shade of mixed white and green! Turquoise would be fun, too.

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

If you haven't already, find me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/elyse.press.major/ or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ElyseMajorTinkeredTreasures

*Looking for copies of my books? Please consider first checking your local independent bookstore or try Barnes & Noble before buying from a big retailer like Amazon. Shop small, buy local.

let's make coastal accents with seashell pasta

2020-06-28T14:43:00.003-04:00

Happy Summer! Welcome to my Let's Make Sunday Series where I'm sharing easy peasy projects. I live in the Ocean State and love spending time not only at the beaches but wandering the local stores. Aside from t-shirt shops (I have way too many whale and anchor-motif long-sleeves) my faves are places that sell either beautiful coastal decor or on the other end of the spectrum – kitschy souvenir shops – the junkier the better! If your summer vaca plans look a bit different this year, you can still make yourself some seaside accessories and here's how:

One of these things is not like the other. Can you guess which one? It's the can – covered in sea shell pasta and spray painted white!

You will need:
A base (tin can, flat frame, foam wreath, etc.)
Seashell pasta
School glue
White spray paint

Attach shells with glue, let dry, and then bring outside to give a few coats of white spray paint. Here's a step-by-step from the Camp Tinker archives: click here.

Here's a mirror from IKEA given the seashell pasta treatment.

This project was meant to be in my second book Seaside Tinkered Treasures but didn't make the trek to the UK in one piece despite two shipping attempts! Use the same application of shell pasta and glue and white spray paint on a styrofoam wreath form.

People mistake this for real shells most every time! Use to hold pens, flowers, plastic cutlery... what a fun idea to decorate for the Fourth of July!

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

*Looking for copies of my books? Please consider first checking your local independent bookstore or try Barnes & Noble before buying from a big retailer like Amazon. Shop small, buy local.

let's make cottage style god's eyes

2020-06-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Summer! Welcome to my Let's Make Sunday Series where I've resumed blogging since March to share easy projects. Many of us will be having a home-based summer and need to find ways to make the everyday special, so my plan is to post grown-up twists on summer camp faves. As always, the makes presented will be simple and fun, using things you are likely to already have or are not difficult to find.

Welcome to Camp Tinker! Today we're making that staple of summertime arts and crafts: the God's Eye or Ojo de Dios. To give it cottage style or a shabby spin, we're using strips of cotton fabric instead of yarn or twine resulting in a rustic home accent.

You will need:
2 sticks or twigs
Scissors
Scraps of fabric

I foraged around outside and found a nice thin stick which I snapped into two equal pieces.

Prep
Next, I snipped the edge of a length of fabric and tore a strip about a half inch wide. You will need many of these strips – which you can prep by tearing all at once – or rip along as you go. Tie each fabric end to the next and knot resulting in a single long strip. Place the sticks into an equal cross. Tie the fabric strip into a knot at the center of one of the sticks

Working clockwise from the center knot, wrap the fabric around the stick, rotate and do the same to the next stick. Once you begin to get the hang of it, it will be like turning a steering wheel, wrapping the fabric around and under as you go.

I hope these images will help but if they don't – there are many tutorials to be found with a simple Google search. They will most likely use yarn but the method is the same.

I didn't want my finished piece to be too large, so I snapped all four branch ends. Once completed, I knotted the final strip to another piece hidden in the back. Tie a final fabric strip to one of the sticks and knot into a loop for hanging.

The resulting woven pattern is very pretty. I used a few different fabrics, mostly pinks and whites with rose motifs, but the possibilities are endless.

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well, campers!

established july 2, 2012

xo
elyse

let's make a desk set from wallpaper

2020-06-14T06:00:00.000-04:00

Hello! Welcome to my Let's Make Sunday Series where I'm sharing easy projects to make from things you are likely to already have at home. I recently developed a post for the Laura Ashley USA blog using their Peonies Dark Blush wallpaper for some of all-time favorite tinkering projects: a pencil cup, decorated clothespins, a book cover, even a desk blotter.

Rather than my recreating the post here, let's go on a field trip!
http://blog.lauraashleyusa.com/pretty-organized-wallpaper-desk-supplies/

No wallpaper? Use your favorite paper for any of these projects {but it sure is pretty!}.

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

PS
Find me on Instagram at @elyse.press.major

let's make postcards

2020-06-07T09:00:00.000-04:00

Hello! Welcome to my Let's Make Sunday Series where I'm sharing easy projects to make from things you are likely to already have at home. During this time, it's especially nice to reach out to people in various ways so I thought it would be fun to make postcards.

This project starts humbly using thin cardboard boxes from food and drink packaging.

You will need:
Empty cardboard package
Glue
Paper
Ruler
Scissors
Tape

Most postcards seem to measure at 4x6 inches so I hunted through the recycling bin and found boxes from graham crackers and seltzer that were graphically pleasing on their own. I flattened the boxes, opened them up at the seams, and then measured and cut into 4x6" rectangles.

Using an existing postcard as my guide, I flipped each card to the brown cardboard side and drew a line to set aside space for postage and the recipient's address. If you like the graphics on the front, your postcard is ready to write and send.

I decided to cover the packaging side with white paper to conceal the graphics, creating a blank canvas on which to decorate with a collage of paper scraps and stickers.

When you make things with paper, even the scrappy mess is pretty!

I added a few stickers to my collage, too. Be sure that any paper flaps are secured with glue or even clear tape so that your masterpiece doesn't arrive torn.

You can even buy post card stamps online.

This project appears in my second book Seaside Tinkered Treasures (CICO Books) as Cracker Box Postcards on page 80.

Surprise someone with a postcard. I'm sure they'll be glad you did.

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

*Looking for copies of my books? Please consider first checking your local independent bookstore or try Barnes & Noble before buying from a big retailer like Amazon. Shop small, buy local.

let's make prayer boxes

2020-05-31T09:00:00.000-04:00

Hello! Welcome to the latest in my Let's Make Sunday Series where I'm sharing easy projects to make from things you are likely to already have at home. I'm calling today's project "prayer boxes" because that is how these objects are commonly referred but to me they can be used for anything – from keeping inspiring messages to holding small supplies.

You will need:
An empty mint or tea tin
Glue
Paper
Pencil
Scissors

Begin by gathering up favorite paper scraps and printing out an inspiring word or two.

Place tin face-down and trace around the lid lightly with pencil.

If you wish to also cover the sides of the lid with the top cover sheet, leave a small margin from your traced template and make little snips around the corners so that the paper can be glued down to fit.

Cutting the inserts to fit can be tricky. You might want to use a piece of heavier paper to work out the measurements and then use it as a template.

{ It doesn't need to perfect, it's handmade }

Top the decorated tin with a little embellishment if you wish. Over years of tinkering, I've amassed all kinds of bits and bobs, many from the wonderful swaps in which I participated during my early days of blogging. Start your own "whimsy jar" with random buttons and beads, ribbon, broken jewelry, and more.

If you do want to use it as a prayer or wish box, include a small pencil and blank pieces of paper. Your tin is now ready to hold prayers, wishes, or just paper clips. Whatever keeps you inspired!

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

PS
Find me on Instagram at @elyse.press.major

let's make labeled containers

2020-05-24T09:00:00.000-04:00

Hello! Welcome to the latest in my Let's Make Sunday Series where I'm sharing easy projects to make from things you are likely to already have at home. As you probably know by now, I'm a big fan of Bonne Maman preserves – especially strawberry or raspberry {try a tablespoon in a s'more!}. Their jars are as wonderful as their contents – with a squat shape that makes them nice as juice glasses and small vases – and labels that slip off easily with a quick warm soak in suds. This week, let's label 'em!

You will need:
Glue stick
Jar
Paper + printer
Scissors
Word processing program, letter stamps, typewriter

Start by finding a font that you like. I gravitate toward simple packaging with typewriter-style fonts and created this sheet using PicMonkey. Considering how I might use the jars prompted my word choices.

Next, I cut the words into strips.

I trimmed the strips a bit for each jar and used a swipe of glue stick to affix.

Super cute and full of possibilities!

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

PS

I am honored to have a project featured on the Laura Ashley USA blog! I hope you'll visit and say hello!
Click: On a Roll

let's hang jars of flowers

2020-05-17T15:15:00.001-04:00

Hello! Welcome to the tenth installment of my Let's Make Sunday Series where I'm sharing easy projects to make from things you are likely to already have at home. Today we're using emptied jars again. Why? Because I have so many of them! During this time, I've been eating lots of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and so emptied preserves jars are easy to come by.

You will need:

Glass jars, bottles

Hanger: torn strips of cotton fabric are shown but you can hang jars using a variety of things: twine, string, fishing line, ribbon, floral wire.

Make a hanger

I like to snip a piece of fabric at the edge to tear into strips. Tie strip securely below the neck of the jar and leave enough at each end to then tie to something to hang.

It is such a beautiful day that I decided to hang the jars outside from an old ladder in my backyard. Next I filled each jar with some water {which I brought outside in guess what? another jar!}.

Then, the foraging began! I picked some lily of the valley...

and buttercups, and snipped some lilacs. First I kept them all separate but then decided to mix things up a bit for each little bouquet.

No ladder in the woods? No problem! Hang from a hook or a knob. Fill with whatever you can find – clovers, faux flowers or vintage millinery, sprigs of fresh herbs.

Enjoy! Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

PS
I was just featured in a local paper sharing more simple tips. Click to enlarge and also find on page 40 of The Valley Breeze!

let's make amethyst apothecary bottles

2020-05-10T14:55:00.001-04:00

Hello! Welcome to the ninth installment of my Let's Make Sunday Series where I'm sharing easy projects to make from things you are likely to already have at home. Today we're going to be making empty glass jars resemble antique apothecary bottles. Because I want to match the lilacs in my yard that are just beginning to bloom, I decided to make amethyst colored bottles but you can mix most any color and here's how:

You will need:
Decoupage medium (Mod Podge) or school glue
Food coloring
Glass jars, bottles
Paint brush
Paper plate
Wax paper (optional)

Prep:
I always like to protect my work surface with a sheet of wax paper which is great because it's fairly waterproof and when you're done you can just crunch it up and throw it away or let it dry and use it again.

How to:
On a paper plate put a quarter size drop of decoupage medium, a speck of red and a speck of blue food coloring. Mix together with your paint brush and you should get a deep black raspberry kind of color.

Other color ideas: pure shades like blue; a speck of red to make a rosy pink; specks of yellow and red to make a shade of amber; specks of blue and yellow to make green.

Apply in light even coats to the surface of your jar.

When the glue mixture has dried - it will look like this. If you're not happy with the results, you can mix a new batch of color and apply until you get the shade you like best.

If you're like me, you'll start digging around for all kinds of bottles. Don't forget the spice cabinet!

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

PS
Follow me on Instagram at elyse.press.major and be sure to click on "chick flix" at my Stories for a giggle!

let's make kindness rocks

2020-05-03T15:41:00.000-04:00

Hello! I hope that everyone is doing well! The Sunday Let's Make series continues with a slight variation on a project created for use as props for my second book Seaside Tinkered Treasures.

I decorated stones and sea shells to be used for styling purposes {as shown above: Pretty Pinwheels, page 75} but on their own, they make lovely natural accents to use as vase fillers or paper weights. The project also lends itself to be used to make kindness rocks – to decorate, add an uplifting message, and leave behind for someone to find.

You will need:
Glue stick
Decoupage medium (Mod Podge)
Paper
Permanent fine point marker (Sharpie)
Rocks or stones (are they the same thing?) with one flat, smooth side
Scissors

As you may know, many of my projects begin with creating what I call "pretty paper" which is a color copy of a favorite floral fabric (say that 3x fast). You may of course use any paper with a motif you like – stationery, wrapping paper, scrapbooking paper.

Carefully cut out the motif, and then apply to the smooth side of a stone using glue stick. If you plan to leave your finished piece outside, cover with coats of decoupage medium or clear nail polish to seal well and waterproof.

Shells works nicely, too!

Scribble a positive message with a Sharpie and display or leave alongside a walking path.

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

*Looking for copies of my books? Please consider first checking your local independent bookstore or try Barnes & Noble before buying from a big retailer like Amazon. Shop small, buy local.

let's make little drawers

2020-04-26T12:52:00.001-04:00

Hello! I hope that everyone is doing well! The Sunday Let's Make series continues with a project from the Tinkering Archives.

When I first blogged about this tinkering endeavor, I named the project and blog post le petit tiroir – which very roughly translates to the little drawer in Google French.

You will need:
Glue
Embellishments
Scissors
Small matchbox
Paper/fabric scraps
Ribbon, trimming

How to:
While the book outlines a series of five steps {click to enlarge image}, basically you are wrapping the outside cover of a matchbox with paper of fabric. You may also line the inside "drawer" with paper or fabric, and dot the "drawer" front with a flat bead or other embellishment. A large matchbox will also work.

This trio is part of the set created for my first book. I like to tie a piece of vintage seam binding into a bow and tuck something inside, like a sprig of millinery flowers; the top matchbox is adorned with one of my Nana's clip-on earrings.

I love how the matchboxes were styled and even landed the book cover.

Print-out little messages to tuck inside, especially if giving as part of a gift. The little drawers make nice boxes for gifting earrings...

or pretty beads and other tiny presents!

Other paper ideas:
Comic book
Gift wrap
Take-out menu
Magazine page
Map
Scrapbook paper

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

*Looking for copies of my books? Please consider first checking your local independent bookstore or try Barnes & Noble before buying from a big retailer like Amazon. Shop small, buy local.

let's make bottle cap magnets

2020-04-19T10:10:00.001-04:00

Hello! I hope this blog post finds everyone feeling well. Today's project revolves around bottle caps and ideas how to tinker them into something pretty. Don't let the long list of supplies scare you away, this project can be as simple as you want it to be.

You will need:
Bottle caps
Glue
Magnets
Math compass
Paper
Scissors or paper punch
White glitter

In a nutshell {or bottle cap} you want to cut a circle from decorative paper and place into the bottle cap. For a perfect fit, use a math compass.

If using a math compass: Create a fine line and cut out your circle from paper.

If you have this 1-inch scalloped hole punch from Martha Stewart Crafts it creates the perfect insert.

Dab a tiny bit of glue inside the cap before inserting the paper circle to fix in place. If you want to add glitter, swipe some glue over the paper insert, sprinkle glitter on, and then shake off.

And now you have your lovely bottle cap!

Here is how it appeared all styled and photographed in Tinkered Treasures* {page 64}. To turn your bottle cap into a magnet, glue a magnet to the back. Look through your "junk drawer" – chances are good that you have some flimsy free magnet that you can repurpose for this project.

Other ideas
Use to decorate a flat picture frame
Line the flat face of a shelf
Turn into jewelry, perhaps a pin

Make a miniature wall clock

Download and print-out or draw a clock face on paper and insert into a bottle cap.

It won't keep time but who cares!

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

*Looking for a copy? Please consider first checking your local independent bookstore or try Barnes & Noble before buying from a big retailer like Amazon. Shop small, buy local.

PS
Follow me on Instagram at elyse.press.major and be sure to click on "chick flix" at my Stories for a giggle!

let's make napkin holders

2020-04-12T14:49:00.002-04:00

Hello! I hope everyone is doing well. Life in quarantine is casual for the most part but I always feel better about myself and life in general when making even the slightest effort toward normalcy. Little acts like wearing earrings, putting on blush, even setting the table. Today, let's make napkin holders, even if they're for paper napkins for dinner on the couch.

You will need:

Images of vintage seed packets

Decorative paper

Thin cardboard

Glue stick

Scissors

Ruler

Pen for making creases

Baker’s twine (or yarn)

Find + print images
Look online for images of vintage seed packets. Here are some that I collected. Just click and download.

Upload into a word processing program and experiment with sizing before printing out.

Build a base
You are essentially constructing the rigid sleeve of a matchbox cover. Determine a standard size (approximately 2.5” x 3.5” shown) and use cardboard that is sturdy yet pliable (think: inserts that come with calendars or pressed shirts, even a cereal or cracker box). The first napkin holder can be tricky so after it's all set you can use it as a template for the others. Sharpen folds with a pen.

Once the base is all set, cover with decorative paper.

Glue the seed packet image to the top cover and trim to fit, if needed.

Complete by tying with a piece of baker’s twine around the box in a bow.

Ready, set, dine
Stuff holder with a napkin and cutlery. Assemble a cheerful table setting using scraps of fabric as napkins, a floral sheet for a table cloth, sprigs of flowers or twigs from outside, mismatched party ware – it all works!

And if fashioning a folded holder isn't your bag, just make a paper loop around the napkin and cutlery and tape together – fast-food restaurant style – but with charm!

This project was developed for the Spring 2015 issue of Cottage Gardener magazine.

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

PS
Follow me on Instagram at elyse.press.major and be sure to click on "chick flix" at my Stories!

let's decorate jars

2020-04-05T14:28:00.001-04:00

Hello! It's been a long time since I've blogged regularly and I hope that you're enjoying these Sunday updates as much as I do creating them. If you're a first time visitor here's a little recap. The past two projects have been made from emptied tin cans (pencil cup, luminary); today I thought we'd venture into jelly jars!

You will need
Jars

My favorite jars for tinkering are from Bonne Maman preserves. I like the short shape, gingham lids, and best of all, their labels easily slide off with a soak in warm soapy water. Of course, any glass jar will do.

Embellishing a jar can be as simple as tying a scrap of ribbon around its base.

You will need
Jar
Ribbon
Scissors

• • •

Embellishing a jar can be as involved as painting the lid and topping it with a circle of paper with a new label to match.* Seal top with decoupage medium.

You will need
Jar
Decoupage medium (Mod Podge)
Foam brush
Glue stick
Paint (craft, spray, leftover house paint)
Paper
Scissors

• • •

This jar simply has a torn piece of fabric glued to the front.

You will need
Jar
Fabric
Glue stick
Scissors

• • •

I use jars in the Girlie Office to display small supplies. For this project, upload a floral fabric image and size to fit a mailing label, add text on top in an unfilled box, and print to create pretty labels**; trim sides with a scallop-edged scissors if you have one handy. Use label scraps to cover the lid.

You will need
Jar
Word processing program
Scallop-edged scissors
Sheet of adhesive mailing labels

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

PS
Show me your projects by tagging #tinkeredtreasures or #tinkereverything on Instagram

Using the book Tinkered Treasures, CICO Books
{search your favorite bookseller or library}:

*Tinkered Treasures - Tinkering Recyclables - Relish Jars, p. 72

**Tinkered Treasures - Getting Started - Making Pretty Paper & Pretty Labels, p. 16

let's make a tin can luminary

2020-03-29T10:10:00.001-04:00

Hello! I hope everyone is hanging in there. I have another project to share today, continuing with the tin can theme since chances are good you have one available. For this series of "let's make" projects, I'm aiming for supplies you already have at home.

You will need

Hammer

Nail

Paint, brush (optional)

Pencil

Tin Can

Prep

Once again, I like a flip-top soup can for this project but most any medium to large sized will do. Friendly reminder, if you use a can that required opening, be sure to hammer or tamp down sharp points. Make sure the can is clean and dry. I generally peel off labels and run through the dishwasher but a good soak and rinse is just fine.

Draw, Fill + Freeze

Draw a simple shape such as a heart on one or both sides of the can. Fill the empty can almost to the top with water and place in the freezer for a couple of hours – you want the water inside to just-freeze as leaving the can in the freezer for an extended period of time can cause the bottom to expand and warp, making it unsteady as a fixture and we want the base to remain flat.

Channel Your Inner Flintstone
Prepare a sturdy surface (even the floor) where you can hammer a pattern into the can; nesting the can in a thick towel works well. Following the shape you have drawn, gently hammer holes in the pattern, leaving a small space between each, essentially creating a dotted line. Too complicated? Just make random holes, it will still look cool!

Work carefully and quickly to make all the holes before the ice melts. If you plan to hang your luminary, make two holes toward the top of the can on either side so you can attach a handle. When all the hammering is completed, drain and dry the can.

Finishing Touches

Paint the exterior of the can (with heat-safe paint) if you wish but it’s not necessary. If you want to hang your luminary, thread a sturdy piece of wire through and fasten well either by bending or tying. Pro-tip: The handle from a Chinese food take-out carton makes a good hanger!

Ta-da!

Place a votive inside (I prefer battery operated over an actual candle) and enjoy when the sun goes down!

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

Project photo and illustration: Seaside Tinkered Treasures, CICO Books.

Back story blog post.

PS
Show me your projects by tagging #tinkeredtreasures or #tinkereverything on Instagram

let's decorate a tin can

2020-03-22T20:28:00.001-04:00

Hello! I hope everyone is doing well! No need to read three to four paragraphs before we get started. Let's tinker a can! This is a project that I've been doing for a long time. It's simple and doesn't require many supplies and chances are good that you have an empty can just waiting in your recycling bin. Use your completed project to hold flowers, pencils, and more!

You will need:
Foam paint brush
Glitter
Glue pen
Glue stick
Image on paper
Mod Podge
Paint
Scissors
Tin can

This series is from my archives and is kind of backwards!

Start at bottom-right, and keep going right until you get to the top-left.

Prep
Progresso soup cans are great for this project because they have flip-top lids which don't leave behind jagged edges. If you do use a can that required opening, be sure to hammer or tamp down sharp points or even cover them over with electrical tape. Make sure the can is clean and dry. I generally peel off labels and run through the dishwasher but a good soak and rinse should do the trick.

Paint
What kind of paint do you have? If you have acrylic craft paint or even leftover house interior paint, apply to the can exterior with a brush. If you're using spray paint, be sure to use outdoors on a still day. No paint? Wrap the can with paper! See Paper Collage variation further below.

Image
I generally download or scan floral fabrics or wallpaper, then enlarge my favorite part, and print out. Next, carefully trim with scissors. Apply glue stick to the back of your cut-out and press on to the can. Seal image with a light coat or two of Mod Podge on a dry foam brush. Allow to dry. No patience for this part? Find a nice sticker.

Embellish
Use a glue pen to draw fine lines where you will sprinkle glitter – one color at a time.

Voila!

That time Matthew Mead photographed a tinkered can

The back cover of Tinkered Treasures

Paper collage variation

Happy tinkering + please stay safe at home + well!

xo
elyse

PS
Show me your projects by tagging #tinkeredtreasures or #tinkereverything on Instagram

let's make things

2020-03-21T16:43:00.002-04:00

Hello!

If this is your first visit, I'm Elyse. I started this blog, initially called "cottage" in August of 2008. At the time, this was the extent of social media for me but I took to blogging quickly as I thought of this space as my own little magazine – a place to share about the craft and DIY home projects I was doing and play at writing in what I called "magazine-ese" style (that succinct writing used in captions). Before long I had this lovely group of online friends near and far. We all found each other somehow, sharing our love for vintage cupcake ballerinas and floral prints. Soon with the encouragement of many, I was selling on Etsy, did a couple of craft fairs, and was submitting tutorial ideas and pitching stories to my favorite magazines. Once I saw my first piece in print – I had the bug, that publishing bug – and it hasn't let up since. Fast-forward, I have written two craft books, co-authored a book of IKEA hacks, have contributed many articles and projects to magazines, even made friends with some of the editors I idolize. Today, I'm the editor-in-chief of a family of Rhode Island magazines. So why all the exposition? I plan to begin blogging again and want to introduce myself. Now, more than ever, I think people want to create things and all of my projects have humble beginnings – a soup can, scraps of paper and fabric, leftover paint. Starting soon I will blog easy step-by-step projects. This isn't a fancy website, I'm not doing YouTube videos, I don't have any sponsors. It's just me, paper, scissors, and glue, hoping to share some creativity and beauty for your little corner of the world.

xo
elyse

looking ahead

2019-12-31T20:32:00.003-05:00

New Year's Eve is the perfect time to be reflective, right? I was sitting on the couch watching a live broadcast of fireworks in Boston, it had just turned 7pm and the station cut-in to also show London, where the clock just struck midnight. Happy New Year! I decided it would be fun to join the online conversation and post something to Instagram but didn't really have anything new to share from my phone's gallery (and the light is too dim to snap any pics) so I revisited the archives of my barely functioning home computer.

I found this photo and it kind of stopped me in my tracks. Created in 2011 around the height of my being active on this blog and working tirelessly to build a portfolio of published writing and craft tutorials to support a book proposal. In 2013 my first book Tinkered Treasures was published by CICO Books, followed in 2014 by Seaside Tinkered Treasures, and a few years later came "the IKEA book" in various versions by different publishers. All the while I continued to write home features for shelter magazines. It was a busy time of making and writing and writing about making. So much has happened to me professionally since I wrapped some pencils in photocopies of fabric, topped them with paper roses, and snapped some pics.

I think of the past year and realize I didn't tinker very much with paper and glue. I did spend a lot of time writing, which is a great thing. I also realized that I'm not sharing about making as much and decided to rename my Instagram account to reflect that I'm instead posting more about my life and work and the things I find beautiful – and so with Elyse Major already taken – you can find me on Instagram now at elyse.press.major It felt strange letting go of my "brand name" but it also seems like a good move forward. The account is still Tinkered Treasures on Facebook. Baby steps, right?

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy year ahead! Thank you for reading!

Elyse

insta inadvertent decor diary

2019-02-03T14:25:00.002-05:00

We're living in an age where our every move is documented in some form or another. Sometimes this is a useful thing; for example in a few moments I retraced that instant when I decided to paint my kitchen-dining room walls white.

I saw the above post and GASP... began following each account involved in the making of this bright and simple mudroom. As commented, I was smitten with the white walls, woven blinds, and overall simplicity.

Ever the fickle decorating pickle, I'd been switching accents around in my dining room, most notably the window treatments and table coverings. Shabby Chic valances and a lace window panel; roller blinds striped with Frog tape for the IKEA book paired with yardage of floral cotton; and finally black and white checked valances with a section of brown kraft paper. Despite the look from varying exposures, always the white table, always the smoke blue Isabella dining chairs, and always the Spring Morn-painted walls. I always adored the dining decor but suddenly it seemed fussy.

Even a room in Dollhouse no. 2 received a test make-over with a white accent wall and matchstick blinds fashioned from toothpicks. I was ready for this change. Down came the valances and wall decor of the real kitchen and dining room, and in came buckets of pure white; painting was completed toward the end of September.

So fresh, open and clean, I didn't want to return anything except for the dining set. Of course pieces did make it back, including the addition of the living room armoire which couldn't accommodate the size of a new-to-us TV.

All of the wall decor and miscellaneous items ended up in the Girlie Office during the painting process.

I found affordable woven Roman shades at Overstock and as documented on Instagram, they were all installed by mid-November. The chandelier still hangs but I've been thinking of replacing it with this industrial pendant lamp that was once in my youngest son's room.

I am really enjoying the streamline look so much so, that no wall decor has been returned to either the kitchen or dining room walls. Will the Fresh Cut Flowers enamel sign return? Will there be a mirror or a painting? I want the spaces to have a coastal-farmhouse vibe but in the meantime, am leaving it be and enjoying the simplicity and will likely be documenting any progress on Instagram.

Thanks for reading and Happy February!

xo
elyse

my year end review: looking to the present

2018-12-26T16:30:00.002-05:00

I’ve never been very good at resolutions or even setting goals but I do like having a word for the year ahead. Somehow even in the back of my mind the word becomes a motto, an M.O., a compass, a comfort. The word enters my thoughts, prescribed by circumstance; it seems to present itself and I don’t ruminate over it, I agree and accept. There was that year where I felt scattered and so my word was mindful, the year of making random career choices and so I went with strategic. Last year I was in a dark place professionally and the word flourish found me, and I’m glad it did.

2018 kicked off with a visit from the incredibly talented Matthew Mead, someone whose work as a stylist, photographer and magazine editor I have been following for years. Funny, gracious, and creative as they come, I am honored to know Matthew and call him my friend. He showed up on a bright Saturday morning in January – his pick-up truck filled with props and buckets of fresh flowers – for a fun filled day of styling and photographing my home. The images that focused on my craft room, aka the Girlie Office, are featured nearly a year later, in the current issue of In Her Studio magazine.

During the first half of the year, writing for shelter magazines kept me afloat both emotionally and financially. For each home story that I penned, I was transported, inspired, and validated. While a trio of articles is just about to hit newsstands in Boho Style, I actually wrote them back in April and so they seem like ages ago. Another piece due out early in 2019 was written in July. That’s the world of the editorial calendar -- always months ahead.

During the second half of the year, on June 11 to be exact, I started a new position, my dream job as editor in chief at Providence Media, publisher of a host of Rhode Island lifestyle magazines. Here, I am surrounded by kind collaborative colleagues and am committed to work that I love. I feel valued, useful, and appreciated, and proud of what we do. I have my own office with a tall window that overlooks a leafy brick courtyard. Each day I pitch and develop story ideas, I write, assign, edit, and I even do some product styling. Six months in, I still don’t get that Sunday feeling of dread.

Being immersed in planning editorial content for a series of magazines, my mind is always spinning and months ahead. In September I was writing about wintertime and today I’m working on March. This can cause time to blur and even holidays to feel like they already happened. I have also been self-aware of skimming instead of reading, scanning not looking, and hearing over listening. It’s no wonder that the word PRESENT surfaced as my word for 2019. The plan is to strive to be better aware of my surroundings, to slow down a bit, to pay attention. After all, each day is a gift – that’s why they call it the present, right?

Thanks as always for reading. All best wishes, always!

Elyse