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M&J Trimming Featured In Martha Stewart Wedding Fall 2008

 

Silk flower and midori ribbon featured in Martha Stewart Wedding Fall 2008

Silk Rose (Left):  Sea Foam #31907

Silk Rose (Right):  Sage Green #31905

Midori Double Fact Satin Ribbon:  Sea Foam #37307

 

 

23MM MESH TUBE RIBBON #36878.  Call 1.800.9.MJTRIM to order or for more information on availabe colors.

White Pearls #11825

 

 

16MM Imported Double Face Satin Box Pleated # 33564

 

Add comment October 6, 2008

A Touch of Gray (DIY Bridal Shoe Clip)

By Kristin

The hottest trend it seems lately is that brides are heading towards shades of gray for the new accent color.  They are incorporating into everything ranging from the invites to the wedding dress itself!  I decided to create a simple pair of shoe clips done in this hot new shade to show how versatile it can be. 

 Shoe clips were at their most popular during the Victorian era, they were used to dress up your shoes, but could also be clipped to hats, scarves, and bags.  I’m a huge fan of shoe clips, I usually make my own using mostly buttons and ribbons, but I do have a few vintage pairs too.  Why not try to make a pair today, you’ll quickly see how addictive it is to own a ‘new’ pair of shoes!

 

 

Materials Used:

 

Instructions:

  1. You will need 2 pieces of ribbon measuring 8 inches and two measuring 3 inches.
  2. Fold the ends of the 8″ ribbon towards the middle and glue in place with Unique Stitch Glue, then take the 3″ piece and fold over the ends about ¼” and glue in place.  Wrap the small 3″ piece around the center of the long folded piece to cover the seam, glue in place.
  3. Take your needle and thread and sew the shoe clip to the back of the ribbon.  You can use E6000 as well, but I find that the thread holds up better over time.
  4. Take your rhinestone button and clip off the shank back (the small metal loop on the back).  Clip it as close to the back of the button as you can, a little extra remaining is okay, so long as the button lays flat.
  5. Glue your button to the middle of the front of the ribbon.
  6. Let everything dry overnight. 
  7. Clip on and look gorgeous!

9 comments September 25, 2008

Mother’s Velvet Ribbon Wedding Corsage

By Kristin

 

 

 

The mothers of the bride and groom are just as important as the couple, if it wasn’t for them, you probably wouldn’t be the person you are today.  Why not give your mom something she will be able to use again?  Corsages are a great way to get crafty.  I made one from 50mm Velvet ribbon in Scarlet with Moss leaves.  This was very easy to make and only took about 20 minutes.  I then sewed on a pin back (item #32247) to anchor it to a 16mm velvet ribbon wrist tie.  This way, after the wedding, the rose can be worn on a jacket, pinned to a pillow, or added to a purse!

                       

Materials

·      1 yd of 50mm Velvet Ribbon - Scarlet (flower)

·      Two 6” pieces of  50 Velvet Ribbon – Moss (leaves)

·      1 Pin Back #32247 – 1 ¼” Nickel

·      ½ yard 16mm Velvet Ribbon – Scarlet (wrist tie)

·      Needle

·      Matching threads for ribbon colors

 

Instructions

  1. Start by threading your needle with the flower colored thread.  Make a knot on the end.  Start threading through the bottom edge of the length of the ribbon until you reach the end – about 1 stitch every ¼’.  Pull the ribbon down the thread until it is scrunched up all the way, knot the thread securely.
  2. Simply roll the ribbon into a flower shape and sew the bottom together to keep it’s shape (from the underside).
  3. The leaves are a little trickier.  Start by threading your needle with the leaf color thread.  You have to take the ribbon in the middle top edge and pinch it to a point, sew the point down.  Now you have to gather the ends and shape them with your fingers to create the leaf shape.  Sew the ends to secure.You are ready to sew the leaves onto the bottom of the flower.  Sew the ends of the leaves to the middle of the flower.
  4. Sew the pin back to the middle of the flower.
  5. Pin the flower to the wrist ribbon.  You can pick a pretty keepsake box to present it to her   in so she has somewhere to store it for years to come.

Add comment September 10, 2008

Do-It-Yourself Bridal Package (Customize Your Own Hot-fix Rhinestone Motif)

By Kristin

 

This weekend I’m throwing a surprise engagement party for 2 of my very good friends.  I decided to make each of the brides a tote bag filled with supplies that will help them plan their big day.  Since I wanted to make something they could use after the wedding, for trips to the green market or beach, I decided to gear each one towards their unique personalities. 

For Cristina I chose the Swarovski Rhinestone Peace Sign iron-on motif and a 12mm Square Sequin Trim in Silver to decorate an eco-friendly cotton tote.  I started by ironing out the tote to get rid of the wrinkles and then ironed on the hot-fix rhinestone motif.  I then used the Unique Stitch Glue  to glue the sequin trim around the edge of the bag and on the handles.  I used the Unique Stitch instead of the Sobo Craft Glue because it is washable.

Deciding what to fill the tote with was a challenge.  It’s not a bridal shower, so home goods were not something I wanted to include.  I decided to instead add some helpful planning books and a t-shirt personalized with their new to-be name. 

I looked around for places that customize t-shirts with rhinestones and designs… they were expensive!  I then remembered that M&J Trimming had these new Heat Seal Films  for the Swarovski Hot Fix Rhinestones!  I picked up 1 small pack of SS10 Crystal and one 13.5″ x 6″ Heat Seal Film.  I then printed out her new name on plain paper to use as a template.  I used a tweezer to place the stones one by one (stone side down) on the film until the design was done.  After you have finished your design, you can just iron it on like any of the other appliqués that M&J Trimming offers.  *Remember, when doing designs for a template; make sure the image is mirrored so when you iron it on, it isn’t backwards.

This was a really fun project for to make for friends, and I can’t wait to see the looks on their faces when they arrive at the party.  Congrats to my friends Sam and Joey, and Cris and Mike!

3 comments August 29, 2008

Bridal Rhinestone Flip Flops

By Kristin

Getting married at the beach?  No?  Well, maybe you want a comfortable pair of shoes for the reception.  Flip flops are the perfect answer!  They’re cheap and can be decorated to match your dress very easily.  I was able to pick up a pair at the local dollar store and decorate them in only about 45 minutes.  M&J Trimming has this great glue called Flip Flop Glue (item # 37866).  It’s made so that your decorations won’t fall off during regular wear and tear.  You can decorate your flip flops with buttons, ribbons, sequins, or my personal favorite… rhinestones!  I decorated my pair in Light Rose and Crystal AB.  Why not try decorating a pair for your own big day, as a gift for the bride or maybe for your bridesmaids and flower girl.  It’s a fun project and you will be able to wear them after the wedding during your honeymoon, or for a day out on the town.

1 comment August 13, 2008

Bridesmaid Organza Beaded Necklace

By Kristin

 

Your flowers are picked, the tuxes are rented and the invitations have all been sent out.  You thought you were finished with the wedding plans when you remembered that you need gifts for your attendants. 

Like most brides, I gave my girls jewelry to wear on the day of, but made sure it was something they could wear again and again over the years.  It seems that a lot of web sites offer jewelry you can buy, but I find it all looks the same after a while. 

This week’s blog is devoted to making a custom necklace that your bridesmaids will love.  It’s fast and easy to make and perfect for a summer or fall wedding.  The colors are also very easy to change according to the colors of your wedding.  I just chose green because it was so pretty and vibrant.  Use this tutorial to make a necklace inspired by mine, or copy it exactly, the options are endless!

 

Materials:

 

Hardware:

Instructions: 

  1. The first step is to glue the rhinestone into the center hole of the flower charm.  Dab a tiny amount of glue into the hole using a pin or toothpick, and then drop the stone into it with the tweezers.  Let this dry for 10 minutes.
  2. Once the rhinestone is dry, you can glue the charm to the center of the shell pendant.  Put a little bit of glue on the back of the flower (not too much or it will ooze out the sides), and stick it on the shell.  Let this dry while you work on the ribbon necklace.
  3. String a bead onto the ribbon 2″ from the end, and make a knot on either side to keep it in place.  Make a knot about 1 ½” – 2″ away from the bead you just did, string on a bead, make another knot on the other side of the bead, repeat until you have all the beads knotted and strung leaving 2″ on each end of the ribbon.
  4. String a clamshell clamp on the end of one of the ribbons and make a double knot right at the end, dab a little glue here and let dry, repeat with the other side.  When the glued ends are dry you can clamp the clamshell closed.  This will give a nice finished end to the ribbon so it doesn’t fray over time.
  5. Using the pliers add an open jump ring to the cent of the ribbon and add the pendant, close the jump ring.
  6. Use the pliers to add the closure to the end clamps as well.
  7. Wrap up your completed necklace in a pretty box for your bridesmaids to wear on the big day.

Add comment July 29, 2008

Dog-of-Honor (Ribbon Dog Collar)

By Kristin

In these times we all cherish our furry 4 leg friends as though they were our children.  I have two ‘kids’ of my own at home named Leia and Pippin.  Though only cats, I still spoil them with the best natural food and squeakiest mice I can afford.  It only makes sense then, that couples today are feeling inclined to incorporate their pets into the ceremony and/or reception.  Adam Sandler had his dog, Meatball, as the ring bearer; and Eva Longoria had Jinxie with her at the wedding.  So many people today wouldn’t dream of their big day without their other ‘best friend’.

Some couples will dress their dog up in a tux, but I feel a simple collar can make a huge statement without looking silly or making the pup uncomfortable.  Using many of fantastic ribbons and trims, there are endless possibilities for your pup’s look.  Greek Key is a very simple design that will look good with a lot or even something a little more elegant and floral could work too.  You can add rhinestones, buttons or charms to jazz it up.  Maybe you can leave it plain and undecorated.

The example I made was very easy and took no time at all.  You just need some basic sewing skills, a sewing machine and the materials. 

 

Collar

  • 1″ Metallic Jacquard Greek Key (White/Silver) #38993, 1 Yard
  • 1″ Nickel D-Ring #10418
  • Silver Square Clasp #30160

Leash

  • ½” Metallic Jacquard Greek Key (White/Silver) #28550, 4 yards
  • Nickel Claw Closure #35596

Other Materials

  • Thread, Scissors, Straight Pins

 

How To:

  1. Measure your pooch’s neck, not too tight, but loose enough for comfort.  Add one inch for the seam allowance. 
  2. Thread the clasp onto the ribbon and fold the ribbon in half in the middle.  This will double the ribbon for durability.  Sew a straight line right next to where the bar in the clasp is.
  3. Place the D-Ring on one side of the ribbon (don’t put both through, just one side) with the loop facing out. 
  4. Sew down each edge of the ribbon after the D-Ring (through both layers) and stop 1″ from the unfinished end.  Fold the ends under ½” and loop over the other bar of the clasp, sew shut with several rows of stitching to secure extra.
  5. Viola, you have a custom made collar for your best friend! 

Now, onto the leash…

  1. Thread the ribbon through the bar of the claw clasp until you get to the middle of the ribbon (just like with the collar).  Sew a straight line next to the bar of the clasp to secure.
  2. Just like with the collar, sew down each end of the ribbon (both layers) until you get 1″ from the unfinished end.  Fold in the ends ½” and sew the edges to finish. Take the newly finished end and fold it about 14″ in to create the wrist strap.  Sew a small square to secure, sew over the square two more times. Clip leash onto the collar and your pup can walk down the aisle in style!

 

4 comments July 18, 2008

Bridal Money Bag

By Kristin

Money Bag

“Twenty- Thirty-grand. In small bills, cash. In that little silk purse.
Maron, if this was someone else’s wedding, sweet tonato!” – Godfather

Maybe you remember that line, maybe you don’t. Either way, it applies to this week’s bridal blog. While you are making your rounds talking to your guests at the reception, they are bound to hand you an envelope with a beautifully written card and sometimes a monetary gift inside. A money bag or money purse is a great way to hold those envelopes as you go table to table. It will make giving hugs, kisses, and handshakes easier as the cards get more numerous. When you are done greeting your guests, simply hand the bag to your Maid-of-Honor, Best Man, or parents to hold onto. At the end of the night they can then take that home with the other gifts for you.

The money purse is also a lot safer than a card box in that you don’t need to worry about a catering hall employee or party crasher stealing the cards. While you wouldn’t think on your happiest of days, nothing like that could possibly happen, it unfortunately can. Make sure you also inquire about wedding insurance, it helps for more things than just your location getting rained out or band not showing. Try Wed Safe at www.wedsafe.com

While researching a money purse for my own wedding, I was disappointed in the styles to choose from, all were very boring and too traditional for my more modern affair. I ended up not making one due to time constraints (I was still working on making my dress). I decided instead, to show you one based on a design for my friend and her San Diego beach side wedding.

Materials:

Note:  Items can also be ordered by phone.  1.800.9.MJTRIM ext 377

  • 16″ of ½” grosgrain ribbon (item #34377 in cream featured)
  • 1 yd.  25mm imported organdy ribbon in Lt. Beige
  • Button/tassel appliqué (item # 36930)
  • 16″ of 1″ heavy apron tape in natural
  • 1 piece 8 ½” x 22″ medium weight non-transparent silk blend fabric in a natural/champagne color
  • 1 yd 2mm imported rayon twist cord in off white or antique
  • Scissors, sewing machine, needle, cream/natural colored thread, straight pins, large safety pin

 

Directions

  1. Use a sheet of 8 ½ x 11″ paper as a stencil and trace 2 rectangles on your fabric. Cut out and lay on top of each other.  Pin one 11″ side together and hem a ¼” inseam, backstitching at both ends.  Open and press.
  2. With the wrong side up, pin down the twill tape about 2″ down from one of the newly created 16″ sides (this will be the top).  Hem along both edges.  This will later be used as a tunnel for your drawstring cord.
  3. With the right side facing up, pin down your cream grosgrain ribbon and hem along both edges.  This piece is purely aesthetic. 
  4. With right side facing up, pin organdy ribbon across widthwise and over where your twill tape is hemmed.  This two is purely aesthetic but also will hide your twill tape if your fabric happens to be slightly transparent.  Set aside the remainder of this ribbon for later.
  5. Fold fabric in half so your first hem remains unfolded.  Pin the bottom and other side edges together and hem.  On the second side hem stop and backstitch ¼ ” into the area where the twill tape and organdy ribbon meet.  Restart hem ½ ” from there and continue to the end.  Remember to backstitch each time you begin or finish a hem.
  6. Tie a knot at both ends of your twist cord to prevent fraying.  Pin your safety pin into on knot and use it to jimmy your cord through the tunnel you created earlier with the twill tape.
  7. Turn bag inside out and press hems.  Tie a bow with the remainder of your organdy ribbon and hand sew onto the center of one side of your stitched on organdy ribbon.  Hand sew button tassel appliqué on top of bow. 
  8. You are done!

3 comments June 17, 2008

Ring Bearer Pillow

By Kristin

In these times, most brides opt for the Best Man and Maid of Honor to hold the actual rings.  The ring bearer is now just a part of the wedding that has simply become tradition.  Usually between the ages of 2-5, it can be a nephew, son, cousin, or friend.  Why not save a little cash and make one yourself that matches your wedding style.  It could be something simple with a little ribbon and button, or a more elaborate one incorporating fine laces and silk ribbons.

Materials:

  • 23″ of 1.5″ side pleated ribbon in ivory [34298]
  • 23″ of 3/8″ sheer ribbon with satin edge in ivory (32691)
  • 23″ of 1 3/8″ imported metallic lace (27769)
  • 7″x14″ of silk taffeta fabric in ivory
  • Sewing Machine, straight pins, double sided tape, needle + thread to match the fabric and the lace
  • Loose pillow Stuffing

 Steps:

  1. Cut two 7″x7″ squares out of your fabric
  2. Lay the side pleated ribbon along one of your squares so that the sheer pleated part is going towards the center and the edging lines up with the edge of your square. Pin down.
  3. Machine stitch where you have pinned.
  4. Cut one 7″ piece of sheer ribbon with satin edge and lay across your other square of fabric. Pin and give a quick machine or hand stitch on each edge to hold it in place.
  5. Cut the rest of your satin edged ribbon in half and line one end of each of the two pieces up with the other sides of that same square of fabric.  Give a quick stitch to hold in place.  Leave the loose ends loose; they will be used later to tie the rings onto the pillow
  6. With the same square that you just stitched the ribbon onto, create another square within it about an inch from the edge.  You can use double sided tape to temporarily hold the lace down.  Hand-stitch the lace using matching thread.  You will have to stitch along both edges of the lace so it is smooth to the fabric.
  7. Lay the two squares of fabric together with the wrong sides facing out.  Pin along the edges with your straight pins.  Turn the square so that the side with the machine stitching from the pleated ribbon is facing up.  Use that seam as a guide and machine stitch the two pieces together, leaving about 2″ unstitched.
  8. Turn pillow form inside out and stuff little bit by little bit.  You don’t want it to be overstuffed because that will create lumps and highlight any imperfections in your stitching.
  9. Hand stitch the 2″ gap and you’re done!
  10. Now all you have left to do is wait for him to propose to you.

1 comment May 22, 2008

Tossing The Bride’s Garter Belt

By Kristin

 

The history of the garter belt is quite an interesting story. After the ceremony the couple would depart to the bedroom and consummate the marriage, with guests in tow as witnesses. Guests would try to snatch pieces of the bride’s clothes in hopes that they would soon to be the next to wed. Of course couples were not too happy with this ritual so the groom would toss the bride’s garter to the guests to distract them. Today, the garter toss is a bit more civil with the groom tossing it to his groomsmen and other single men during the reception. 

The bride can use her garter to express who she is as a person, coordinate to her colors or surprise her new husband with a unique themed garter. For a more traditional look, you can use any one of the gorgeous laces that M&J carries, add some elastic, a simple satin ribbon and a button. Now you have a personalized garter for your special day. You could also use a blue ribbon as your ‘Something Blue’.

Whether or not you choose to actually toss the garter is up to you, but it’s became a standard item in the bride’s attire and can be a fun way to surprise your groom on the wedding night.

 

Ribbons

  1. Mother of Pearl Button #24078 23mm
  2. 1/8″ wide silk or rayon ribbon
  3. 1/2″ elastic #00477 in White
  4. Midori DF Satin Ribbon #37306 in Mink
  5. Organdy Ribbon #02138 in Mint

Add comment April 28, 2008

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