DIY Life

Holidash Highlight: To Stuff or Not to Stuff?

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-20T15:00:00+00:00

Photo: Holidash

There are two kinds of Thanksgiving chefs: those who stuff and those who... well, don't stuff. To get down to the bottom of stuffing, dressing and everything-related, our friends at Holidash have a few helpful tips:

If you follow cooking shows through the holiday season, you've probably heard that it's bad, bad, bad to stuff a bird -- especially if you've talked to Alton Brown. Adding a good pile of stuffing lengthens a turkey's cooking time and increases the possibility of having a dry and overcooked meal. But ... but stuffing tastes so good.

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to follow the advice of the professionals without losing the flavor many of us have grown to love. In the above link, Alton suggests tossing the stuffing in the turkey drippings post-roast, and letting it sit in the turkey while it rests. But there's an easier way, especially if you want your stuffing flavorful and crisp, rather than just juicy.

See, you don't have to stuff a bird to get the same look and flavor. First, create a heaping mound just outside of the turkey, so it looks just like a stuffed bird. After one or two bastings, this will create those deliciously crisp bits of dressing that make a perfect mid-day nibble.

Throw the remaining dressing in a pan (if there's no oven room, a toaster oven works beautifully) with some poultry stock for moistness, and as you baste the bird, reserve some of the turkey drippings in a heat-resistant bowl to baste the dressing with. (If there's not enough, continue using stock.) This will offer the same flavor, as if it came right out of the bird.

Added tip: If you really love stuffing, make extra and cook it after the turkey. Simply save some of the drippings and roast the excess dressing later for deliciously perfect leftovers.

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Holidash Highlight: A Julia Child Thanksgiving

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-18T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, entertaining

Photo: Bookpage

In case you missed the hit movie Julie and Julia this year, you still have time to brush up on your cooking knowledge! Holidash has a Julia Child-inspired Thanksgiving for all of your aspiring chefs! Check it out!:

* Roast Turkey: Most of her technique is pretty classic, but she does add a twist with a slow-simmered giblet gravy.
* Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Regular mashed taters are fine, but Julia knew long ago that a little garlic would make them divine.
* Stuffed Pumpkin: Rather than stuffing your turkey, you could stuff and roast a nice, orange pumpkin.
* Dressing: Julia preferred to keep the dressing out of the turkey, so pull out a casserole dish for this one -- or the pumpkin above.
* Brussels Sprouts Browned with Cheese: A so-called favorite of Julia & Julia star Amy Adams.
* Apple Tart: When the meal is good and done, wrap it up with a classic apple tart.

And don't forget -- no Child feast is complete without some strong libations to wash it all down!

Enjoy!

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5 Thanksgiving Tension Taming Tips

Diane Rixon — 2009-11-18T12:00:00+00:00

Filed under: entertaining

Photo: cardamom, Flickr

The Thanksgiving feast: It's more of an ordeal than a celebration in some families. Ugly family tensions rearing their heads like clockwork each year. Maybe you have a self-appointed family dictator like Marney of the hilarious "Thanksgiving Letter" fame who sucks the fun out of every get-together?

If you're dreading another unpleasant Thanksgiving dinner, why not try some of the following tension taming tips. Who knows? Perhaps you'll become the family peacemaker this year!

1. Have a seating plan. The atmosphere will be oh-so-much improved if you can match like-minded family members at the table. Here's how to do it without sounding like a bossy boots: have the kids make and decorate cute place name cards. If you emphasize it was the kids' contribution to the big day, you'll boost the odds that everyone will obediently sit where you would like.

2. Stagger arrival times. Not everyone wants to spend an entire day with their extended family. Respect that. If you're hosting, let your less-sociable relatives know it's perfectly fine to turn up closer to the hour that dinner is served if they'd prefer not to spend the entire day or afternoon together.

3. Introduce a movie tradition. Pop in a dvd -- a movie that's upbeat and Thanksgiving-related. At best, it'll make everyone more agreeable. At the very least, it'll provide a welcome distraction for kids and those adults who need a moment away from small talk. Just don't let the movie take center stage for those who would rather converse.

4. Have realistic expectations. How many families are super-close and free of conflict? Few to none. So encourage those who will listen, including kids and teens, to treat guests with respect. We don't have to be best of friends because we're related, and no one has the right to shove their opinions down the throats of other family members. Therefore...

5. ... Cool your temper. Accept in advance that Aunt Maggie will likely bring up her fringe political views. Yes, it always makes your hackles rise. So what? Relax and breathe. If debating politics with the family stresses you out, don't get sucked in. Afterwards, use it as a learning experience: take the chance to chat with your older kids about making polite conversation with others, explaining that it's all about consideration for others.

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Daily DIY: Re-Shine Your Aluminum Pots

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-18T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: home decor, entertaining, cleaning

Photo: About.com

Planning a dinner party, but can't stand the sight of your dull pots and pans? Follow this simple tip to bring the shine back onto your pot rack (and make your home smell fresher than an autumn orchard!):

Boil a few apples and/or apple peels in water to get that aluminum shiny and new. That's it! Easy enough, right?

Have a few other pans to clean? Follow this easy guide:
Cast Iron pans: Wipe out with a damp cloth rather than completely wash them, dry completely to prevent rust.
Copper pans: Dip the bottom of the pot in leftover pickle juice. Let sit for about 10-15 minutes and rinse well.
Burnt pots & pans: Make a paste from equal parts water & baking soda, rub into burnt area and let it sit for an hour!
Enamel ware: To remove discoloration, mix equal parts salt and vinegar, clean area & let sit for 15 minutes. Rinse well.

Why not print this out and tape it to the inside of your kitchen cabinet for a no-fail cheat sheet? Happy cleaning!

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Daily DIY: Silver Cleaning Guide

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-16T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: entertaining, cleaning

Photo: JFK Library

It's time to break out the silver and buff out those tarnished serving pieces, but first --- your DIY guide to cleaning silver, using mostly items you already own around the house!

For small items, slightly tarnished:
Use white toothpaste. Dab a bit on your index finger and rub the toothpaste directly onto the tarnish. Wipe clean and presto -- new silver!

For medium-sized, more tarnished items:
Use baking soda and a damp sponge. Mix equal parts baking soda and water, then rub the mixture onto the silver with a clean sponge. Rinse with hot water and polish dry with a soft cloth.

For large or badly tarnished items:
Using the same mixture as above, coat the silver with the baking soda paste and let sit for a few hours. Then, run the silver under hot water and rub with a clean, damp sponge. Repeat if necessary.

You'll silver will look shiny and new -- just like your holiday baubles!

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Holidash Highlight: Keep Your Holiday Party Flu-Free!

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-11T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, entertaining

Photo: Better Recipes

Swine flu is top of mind at the moment, but very few of us are willing to give up our wine and spirits over a measly cold. Here's how to enjoy your holiday party (flu-free!) while staying safe, straight from the experts at Holidash:

Common Sense
If you're feeling under the weather, do not host or attend a party. It doesn't matter if you were supposed to bring the Jell-o mold -- everyone will forgive you if you keep your germs to yourself.

Food
Think individual portions rather than large, communal bowls of chips and dips (oh, will somebody think of the double dippers?). This is an opportunity to get creative! Use shot glasses, little glass votive holders, paper sno-cone holders, Chinese takeout containers, small espresso cups and ramekins to serve small snacks and dishes. And, if you're serving dinner, make the plates for your guests rather than doing a buffet. If possible, keep the food covered before serving.

Drinks
Again, personal servings are best, so forget the punch bowl (and definitely forget the beer pong). Help your guests hang on to their glasses by offering wine glass charms or colored rubber bands to go around beer bottles. If you're using plastic cups, offer markers and stickers so people can personalize their own, even if it's just with their initials.

Meeting and Greeting
Some experts recommend greeting guests with an elbow bump rather than a handshake, but I think that if you're that concerned about germs, a party isn't a great idea for you (unless that's just normal for you, in which case, carry on!). Maybe avoid the kissing and long, lingering hugs, and skip the mistletoe this year.

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ShelterPop Swap: Countdown to Thanksgiving

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-10T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, entertaining

Photo: Book Cellar Inc.

Yep, it's time to start counting down the days until turkey time! ShelterPop shows us how, step by step:

Your three-week checklist:
o. Set a rough budget for everything: food, drinks, and decorations.
o. Invite your guests, if you haven't already.
o. Plan your menu, including snacks, the main meal, dessert, and drinks. Be aware of various dietary restrictions your guests may have, and try to be accommodating (but also realize that people are grownups and don't have to eat everything in front of them).
o. Decide how you will be cooking your turkey, and what kind of turkey you'll buy (fresh, frozen, organic, etc.). Thinking of ordering a fresh turkey? Check out organizations like Local Harvest to find a turkey farm near you.
o. Assess the decorations you have and decide if you're going to buy more, or go DIY (all part of your budget breakdown).
o. Begin putting up outdoor décor; if you did a Halloween display, repurpose as much as possible (such as pumpkins).

Your two-week checklist:
o. Get a firm commitment from guests if they're coming or not.
o. If children are coming, think about what kinds of simple kids' activities you could offer (go old school: a table with crayons and coloring books/other crafts, or board games)
o. Plan your table settings and centerpiece. Pull out linens and make sure they're clean.
o. Polish your silverware.
o. Assess your serving pieces: do you have enough plates, cups, bowls, and platters? What can you borrow from friends?
o. If you're buying a frozen turkey, you can buy it now (if you haven't already). Not sure how big your turkey needs to be? The USDA offers this guide for buying and preparing turkey.
o. Begin to buy drinks (and if you're serving wine, make sure you've got enough wine glasses)
o. Assess your coffee situation. Will your coffeepot suffice, or do you need a larger one (which hopefully you can borrow)?

One week before:
Now, your attention really turns to the food. "You're going to need to go to the grocery at least twice," Coelho says-once for dry ingredients/non-perishables and again a day or so before for your fresh things. Plan your time.

Weekend before Thanksgiving:
o. Before you shop, take the opportunity to clean out your fridge and freezer so that you have space for groceries.
o. Make your shopping list, and buy as many non-perishable items as you can.
o. Begin making what you can ahead of time (relishes, for example).
o. Do a thorough cleaning-all the places you don't hit up regularly (behind the couch, your crown molding, and that forgotten, filthy space between the dishwasher and the wall).

Monday
o. Make your pies: pumpkin pie will easily keep (and maybe even taste better).
o. Depending on its size, you may need to start defrosting a frozen turkey. Refer to the USDA guidelines again.
o. Make a list of each dish, how far ahead it can be prepared, and set a schedule for the week. Remember that things like broth for stuffing and gravy can be made ahead (even frozen if necessary).

Tuesday
o. Buy your perishables, like fresh fruits and fresh veggies, and lettuce for salad, at the market.
o. Now is a great time to buy any fresh flowers, or create fresh flower arrangements, or arrangements with pinecones from your yard.
o. Finish up any last minute décor projects (such as writing names on place cards).

Wednesday
o. Time for spot cleaning: tidy up things like books/magazines, kids' rooms (get them involved in as much as possible), dusting, vacuuming, and cleaning the toilets and sinks.
o. Put clean guest towels in the bathroom.
o. Chill beverages.
o. Give your table linens a good pressing.
o. Set the table (so that you can focus on cooking tomorrow).
o. Set a cooking schedule for Thanksgiving day: know the timing of when everything is going in and out of the oven.

Morning of Thanksgiving
o. Follow the cooking schedule you've laid out for yourself.
o. Don't forget to pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy your guests and the delicious meal!

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Holidash Highlight: Thanksgiving Games for All Ages

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-06T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: entertaining

Photo: ex.libris, Flickr

Thanksgiving games are a ritual for some families. My family is immensely sedentary, especially when it comes to the annual tryptophan coma that we so love to indulge in. Yet this year, I'm planning to spice things up with a few exciting games for the whole family, courtesy of our friends at Holidash!:

1. Name That Turkey Tune
Make your guests sing for their supper with this family-friendly game. Each player takes turns singing their favorite songs by replacing the lyrics with the word 'GOBBLE.' The first player to correctly identify the tune is the new 'gobbler' and the fun continues.

2. Thanksgiving Bingo
If you can't pull your family away from the tube, why not make them work while they watch? Family Fun has a few printable bingo cards for Thanksgiving Day's TV watching, so hand out a few sheets and pencils and go to town. Loser has dish duty!

3. Apple Paring Game
In case you didn't quite get enough dessert, bring in the family for a fun, reward-driven game. Each player gets an apple and a peeler or knife (for adults) and has sixty seconds to peel the longest apple strip they can muster. Winner gets to take a fresh-baked apple pie home for Black Friday!

4. Toilet Paper Thanks
Pass around a roll of toilet paper to the entire room and ask them to tear as many sheets off as they'd like (but don't tell them why they're doing so!). After every player has chosen their desired number of sheets, announce that they have to share one thing they're thankful for... per sheet they ripped from the roll. Those greedy folk won't know what hit them!

With a few of these easy-to-implement games, your family will be so energized they won't even need their annual turkey nap!

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HowNow: How to Make a Pinata

Erin Loechner — 2009-11-02T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: crafts, entertaining, papercraft

Halloween has officially come and gone, and it's time to start thinking about more important things -- like Thanksgiving! I'd love to do something fun and festive this year and am highly considering a turkey pinata. After all, we'll need some candy to wash down all of that turkey, right? I spotted this easy DIY pinata video and am ready to get my hands dirty in the name of the holiday!:

How To Make a Pinata on Howcast

As you watch the video, keep a few important tips in mind:
1. Use plain white paper for the last layer so you have a clean base for decorating.
2. Acrylic and fabric paints work best.

And, as usual, a bit of history to complement your project!:
1. The traditional Mexican pinata is an orb with seven cones attached to it, representing the seven deadly sins. The cones are topped with colorful streamers.
2. In Mexico, smashing open a pinata is a Christmas tradition.

That's it, folks --- have fun and be safe!

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Holidash Highlight: How to Throw a Last-Minute Halloween Party

Erin Loechner — 2009-10-28T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: entertaining

Photo: cakeasaurus, Flickr

Decided to host a few friends over this weekend? Holidash shows you how to throw together a Halloween party... in 24 hours or less!:

Queen of procrastination here, and as usual, I'm spreading the gospel of how to handle your habit of last-minute planning (not that I'm encouraging you to postpone your responsibilities, but hey -- we all have to embrace our flaws, right?). If you're not a fan of impromptu party-planning, feel free to roll your capable eyes and ignore everything I write. But -- if you're normal and it's slipped your mind that you've invited the neighborhood moms over for dinner and a trick-or-treating send-off (not that I'm speaking from experience or anything...), listen up. This one's for you:

How to Throw a Last-Minute Halloween Party

Decor:
Gather a few items from around your home that could easily double as seasonal decor. I once decorated an entire table setting with items from my garage, so it can be done. Think creatively: a kaleidoscope as a vase, chalkboard as a menu, vintage scarves as placemats. Or, if you have a bit of time on your hands for a quick craft, ShelterPop shows you how to whip up a quick spider web table runner out of some black felt. Don't have felt? Use your husband's sweatpants. Trust me; he won't notice.

Food:
Can you say 'take out?' Order some chow mein and label a place card with the words "monster brains." An egg roll doubles as "troll's fingers" and the fortune cookie? Let's just rename that "message from Hell." Serve some store-bought apple cider and put the coffee pot on --- it's gonna be a late night getting those sugar-infused kiddies to bed...

Games:
Does anyone really enjoy games anymore? I suppose you could bob for the proverbial apples, or celebrate old school with a fun game of Old Maid. The most important form of entertainment is conversation, so put on your hostess hat and have fun!

See how easy that was? Forget changing your ways; procrastination isn't such a bad thing after all!

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A Canine Celebration

Erin Loechner — 2009-10-16T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: seasonal, entertaining

Don't let the rooster crow before you've celebrated your pups! Photo: Flickr, The Rochester Canine Playgroups

OK, you officially have two weeks to dream up how you'd like to celebrate your Halloween. Chances are, candy and pumpkins are included, but have you remembered the most important part? That's right --- your furry friends! After all, Halloween is one of the few times it's publicly acceptable to dress up your dog (unless you live on the west coast, that is).

This year, I plan to throw a Howl'O'Ween Party for my pups, and in fact, I detailed the planned experience over on Holidash. Whether you want to throw a bash for your beagle or a party for your pug, I've made a handy little list for all included!:

1. Host your party at a park, or a home with a large, fenced-in yard to give the dogs plenty of space to run around. A happy dog makes a happy guest, and a happy guest makes a happy host!
2. Send out invitations (addressed to the dogs, of course!) to no more than six of your closest pet-toting pals. Too many pets in one place is never a good idea, and do your best to choose dogs that are socially-adapted.
3. Keep a lidded garbage can, pooper scooper and trash bags handy for unexpected "treats."
4. Purchase a few Halloween-themed dog treats (I love these adorable carob dog cookies!) and invite a local dog trainer to come teach your old dogs new tricks!
5. Plan a fun, entertaining game such as a pet costume contest or craft. Award the winners with extra treats (or tricks, if you're feeling naughty!).

Of course, you'll have to start planning wardrobe necessities right away, and we've got you covered in that arena, as well. I love this sweet little bumblebee costume and think it would be just perfect for my Yorkipoo, who, aptly enough, causes my head to buzz.

Moral of the story? You've got two weeks to plan a fun and eventful evening with your four-legged friends. At the end of the night, your dogs will go home exhausted, leaving you to enjoy your Hallow's Eve bark-free. Woo-hoo! I'll howl to that!

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Daily DIY: Create a Custom Tea Set

Erin Loechner — 2009-10-16T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, home decor, art, crafts, entertaining

Want a one-of-a-kind tea set? Look no further! Photo: Aya Rosen, Apartment Therapy

Whoa, nelly. This is my kind of DIY project. With the leaves beginning to change color, I'm dreaming of late nights by the fireplace... with my trusty chai tea, of course. I'd love to own a one-of-a-kind tea set, and it looks like Re-Nest has made that possible -- and on a dime, no less!

All you need are a few key materials to get started. Aya found her tea set at a local thrift shop and scored two saucers for $1.99 and two cups for $2.99. Major score! For paint colors, she used Pebeo Porcelaine 150 in Turquoise and a Pebeo Porcelaine 150 pen in black. Of course, you can get as creative as you'd like with colors, but I think these look smashing together!

From there, you'll need a paintbrush, tissue paper and a jar for water. That's it! Aya has some awesome how-to instructions for how she created her pattern, but if you like to doodle, why not try it free-hand? You'll be guaranteed a unique, custom look that your guests will eye with envy.

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Daily DIY: Make a Woven Felt Placemat

Erin Loechner — 2009-10-15T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: home decor, crafts, entertaining, sewing

Weave your way through the fall season! Photo: The Purl Bee

Felt screams cooler weather to me, so I can't wait to get my hands on a pair of brightly-colored felt threads and work some magic this fall. For now, I'll be keeping this project from The Purl Bee close by -- I can't wait to try it and have a feeling that even I can't screw this one up!

The following materials will make a set of six 11-inch x 17-inch place mats:

Six 18-inch x 18-inch pieces of Ecru Wool Flannel (color of 91)
Two Wool Felt Bundles. This tutorial uses the spring shades offered.
OK-To-Wash-It Fabric Glue
water soluble fabric marker

From there, you'll need to cut, weave and finish! The craft couldn't be easier and would make an excellent art project for your family. Why not let your children pick out their own felt colors to give everyone a personalized place setting? Better yet, with holidays coming up fast, consider gifting felt placemats to your favorite families.

Get to work!

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Holidash Highlight: DIY Costume Ideas

Erin Loechner — 2009-10-09T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: recreation, seasonal, entertaining

I have a massive procrastination issue. I believe it started somewhere in university, where you could often find me face-down in a pile of unfinished classroom notes and study guides -- cramming for that inevitable 9 a.m. exam.

Not much has changed in recent years, although rather than the aforementioned study guides, you'll often find dinner party recipes, article deadlines, and -- this month in particular -- costume ideas for that dreaded Halloween party.

This year, I've vowed to change my ways and am getting started early. Yet, for those of you with chocked-full schedules that are anticipating a very late Halloween Eve, feel free to check out these last-minute costume ideas that have saved my procrastinating buns in the past. Each costume requires very little craft knowledge on your part, and should be easily compiled with household items. Ready? Let's get started!

Hey -- Who invited the static cling? Credit: Time Out New York

1. Static-Cling
What You'll Need: Dress normally and pin a few pairs of panty hose, a dish towel and dryer sheets to your clothing.
Bonus: You'll get a few laughs, and will be the comfiest (sans pins!) in the room.

2. Paper Shredder
What You'll Need: A stack of paper. When someone asks you what your costume is, tear a piece of paper in half and proclaim "I'm a paper shredder!"
Bonus: You can use your spare paper for all of those phone numbers you'll be sure to get.

3. Nudist On Strike
What You'll Need: Dress normally and create a sign out of posterboard, cardboard, or whatever you have on hand. Poster should say "Nudist On Strike."
Bonus: Trust us -- no one wants any other kind of nudist at their party.

4. Aircraft Carrier
What You'll Need: Steal a toy airplane from your little brother, or make a paper airplane of your own. When someone asks you who you're dressed as, hold the airplane high and announce "I'm an aircraft carrier!"
Bonus: You still have one spare hand to hold your drink!

5. Refrigerator Magnet
What You'll Need: Spray paint a shoe box black and attach it to the back of your shirt. Instant refrigerator magnet!
Bonus: Your sense of humor just might magnetize a new date.

Proof that Halloween can be both fun -- and affordable -- this year, with or without the late night procrastination! For more Holidash highlights, head on over to Holidash right here.

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Daily DIY: How to Make Bacon Cups

Erin Loechner — 2009-10-08T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, in the kitchen, entertaining

A breadless BLT never looked so appetizing. Photo: NotMartha

Everything's better with bacon, whether we're talking bandages, mints or even [eek!] air fresheners. As a massive pork fan myself, I'm amazed to find these yummy looking bacon cups, courtesy of NotMartha. Want the recipe? You got it...

To create the cup shapes, Megan used the back of this Wilton King-Size Muffin Pan, which are the width of jumbo muffins but are almost twice as tall (see this cupcake for a visual). Megan used two layers of bacon on the sides and wove it like a basket. She notes that for as floppy as the bacon is when trying to weave it, it keeps its shape really well once cooked to the point that it is crisp.

Megan then set the oven at 400 degrees and carefully formed foil over the back of the muffin pan. She cooked the bacon, moving the pans around, until it was crisp and waited for it to cool before removing the foil and shaped bacon.

Genius, right? I'm amazed. Go, Megan!

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DIY Table Decor for Your Fall Dinner Party

Erin Loechner — 2009-10-07T15:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, seasonal, entertaining

Try a few easy DIY centerpieces for your dinner party this fall. Photo: Bliss Tree

With fall comes cooler weather, and with cooler weather comes bigger appetites (I'm not alone in this, right?). With the air turning chilly right before our eyes, it's time to start thinking about those dinner parties we can't wait to host. Whether you plan to invite over a few co-workers or are getting a jump-start on holiday plans, saving money is at the forefront of everyone's minds.

Why not create a few simple table settings with items you already own, or better yet -- items you can find at your own local grocery store? Here are a few fun, seasonal centerpiece ideas to send you well on your way to entertaining in style this fall:

1. Crafty Cinnamon:
Fold cream napkins into simple, chic squares, and lay a mini bundle of 3 cinnamon sticks atop each napkin. Tie a scrapbook tag onto the bundle with deep orange rafia, and use the tag as a place card - or embellish it with an autumn-themed scrapbook rub-ons featuring words and phrases such as "give thanks, ""blessings," and "fall."

2. Lovely Leaves:
Why shop for centerpieces when you can gather them from your own backyard? Arrange a few twigs and leaves in a hurricane glass and accent them with white miniature pumpkins. For visual inspiration, Toast and Tables has a few gorgeous tables you can gawk over!

3. Gorgeous Gourds
Take a cue from Williams-Sonoma and carve out a few gourds to create homemade candleholders. Simply place a miniature votive in the center of the gourd and presto -- instant mood lighting. Scatter a few leaves around your gourd candles and include a dark table runner to accent the look.

4. Amazing Apples
Last, but certainly not least? Place a few green apples in a basket from your home for an instant touch of fall. Or, for a more modern and elegant aesthetic, arrange a few green apples in a hurricane vase and pair them with crystal wine glasses and cloth napkins.

Proof that food can be both the entertainment and decor for your evening dinner parties!

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Daily DIY: Scratch This

Erin Loechner — 2009-09-30T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: crafts, entertaining

Scratch this! Photo: ArtMind

I'm quite certain this is one of those DIY tutorials that you're not sure when it will come in handy until it's too late. Perhaps you're planning to throw a lottery-inspired party, or maybe you want a fun spin on holiday cards this year. Whatever the purpose, bookmark this fantastic DIY idea for creating a scratch-off lottery ticket using just dish soap and acrylic paint! I'm flabbergasted!

Why not create a lottery-themed birthday party for the gambler in your life? Take a cue from eHow and decorate with orange and white balloons, a lottery ticket cake, lottery centerpieces and then some! The invitations would be so easy to create with our new scratch-off tutorial, and the possibilities are endless!

Of course, don't forget the gift, which could be a sweet, handmade sentiment expressing that you hit the jackpot when you met your certain someone. Sweet, right? I'm such a sucker for romance.

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Daily DIY: I Scream Ice Cream

Erin Loechner — 2009-09-29T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: food, entertaining

Dig in! Photo: Eat Drink Chic

Have a look at this party. You think you know who's designed it, don't you? Could your first guess be Martha, perhaps? WRONG! Looks like Amy of Eat, Drink, Chic is giving Ms. Stewart a run for her money -- buffet style. How lovely is this ice cream party, complete with DIY-inspired tutorials, printables and adorable personal touches? I'd love to throw a similar occasion to welcome in the fall, with a different color scheme but the same chic style! Amazing!

I'd include fall-inspired M&M's with autumn colors like orange, red, brown and yellow, chocolate ice cream, chocolate sprinkles and the like. Wowza. That sounds so good just typing it all out! I doubt it would be as pretty as Amy's party, but at least it would taste luscious!

For more party-inspired ideas, why not check out a few other inspired ideas from DIY Life?:
-How to Host a Progressive Dinner Party
-Daily DIY: Green Your Child's Birthday Party

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Daily DIY: Make Your Party Sizzle with a Swizzle

Erin Loechner — 2009-08-28T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: entertaining

Freshen up with these DIY swizzle sticks. Photo: Martha Stewart

I celebrated another birthday this week, so I've got party decor on the brain, and this is one of my favorite tutorials from Ms. Martha herself (do I need a last name here?). Swizzle sticks are a surefire way to add a touch of elegance to your table setting, whether you're hosting a dinner party or entertaining a simple gathering of friends.

The tutorial includes a super easy-to-use template and requires just a few handy materials like tissue paper, floral tape, scissors and stamens. That's it!

And while we're on the subject of drink decor, here's one of my favorite spritzer recipes from Real Simple. Or, you can throw a fun margarita party with these great tips from ShelterPop. Lastly, while we enjoy just a few more days of summer, why not check out The Scentual Life, DIY Life's round-up of summery drinks. After all, you don't need a party to enjoy a refreshing drink -- all swizzle sticks aside.

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Daily DIY: Upcycle a Starbucks Frapp Bottle into a Vase

Erin Loechner — 2009-08-26T09:00:00+00:00

Filed under: crafts, entertaining, gifts

A trio of Starbucks bottles are more buzz-worthy than the coffee itself! Photo: Maize Hutton

I have a horrid coffee addiction. For some reason, I can't quite focus in the morning without my daily cuppa. I usually stop there, but it's not pretty. Needless to say, at one point, I had dozens of these frappuccino bottles rolling around in the backseat of my car (did I tell you I'm a reformed slob?). If only I'd saved them for a tutorial as good as this one...

What You Need:
(1) Starbucks Frappuccino bottle
(1) White and (1) Clear can of spray paint
(1) Set of colored paint for your letters
(1) Fine paint brush
(1) Pencil
(3) Sheets of carbon paper
(3) Print-off sheets of your choice words

That's it! A quick and easy tutorial with a big result. I'd love to use these for as party centerpieces, as they're cheaper than most vases, and come on -- the coffee inside is just icing on the proverbial cake!

And while we're talking spray paint, don't forget to check out Kelly Edward's foolproof spray paint tips right here!

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