I remember when phone charms were popular accessories back in the 2000s. Now that they're making a comeback, I wanted to DIY my own. This trend is so nostalgic for me, I had a few charms back in the days when flip phones were a thing. I've seen several tutorials on tik tok and noticed how easy they are to make. All you need is colorful beads and string. I purchased a few supplies at the dollar tree and got the rest at Walmart. You can find a variety of beads and craft supplies at either store for an affordable price. These charms are not only cute as accessories for your phone but also look great as chains for your keys or bags.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

• Colorful beads
• String
• Scissors
• Clear nail polish
• Lighter

 Ever since I stopped using heat on my hair and focused on growing it out, I'm more conscious of what products I use on my hair. It's been almost 3 months since I started to embrace my natural wavy locks. I've read many articles that rave about flaxseed gel and have seen many videos of women apply the gel to their hair. After all the research I did on flaxseed, I learned all of the amazing benefits that it contains. I decided to try it out and was pleased by how much healthier and stronger my hair feels and looks. I show you two different methods on how to use the flaxseed gel and how to make it.

FLAXSEED: Flaxseed is rich in omega 3-fatty acids and proteins that can reduce inflammation and increase blood circulation. It contains B vitamins which are known for strengthening the hair follicle. It makes the hair stronger, healthier, and shiner. It also contains vitamin E, which reduces free radicals on the scalp, increases shine, promotes hair growth, and prevents split ends.

CASTOR OIL: Castor oil contains vitamin E, omega 6-fatty acids,  and many more nutrients that can help improve the condition of your hair. When massaged onto the scalp, castor oil can increase blood circulation and promote hair growth. It is also known for minimizing damaged hair, reducing dandruff, and can moisturize dry hair.

COCONUT OIL: Coconut oil is high in vitamins E, B12, zinc, and iron that can help boost hair growth. It can help prevent a dry and flaky scalp, as well as treat dandruff. Coconut oil increases shine, strengthens the hair, reduces split ends and breakage.

LAVENDER OIL: Lavender oil increases hair growth, prevents thinning, hair fall, and hair breakage. It contains antimicrobial properties that can help prevent bacteria, an itchy scalp, and dandruff. 

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tbsp flaxseed
• 1 cup distilled water
• 1 tbsp castor oil
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 5-10 drops of lavender essential oil

They're many gems you can find at the thrift store. I found a glass scalloped bowl and a blue tiny vase. Both items were less than 5 dollars and in perfect condition. I saw a similar ruffled bowl at ANYON that retailed for $370. I got inspired by their carved marble bowl. I wanted to recreate it using the baking soda and paint mixture. Mixing both ingredients together will create thicker textured paint. I've used this technique in the past and loved the end results. This formula creates a beautiful matte finish and will make your glass/bowl look more organic and handmade.

MATERIALS:

• Bowl/vase
• Baking Soda
• Acrylic Paint
• Paintbrushes

A sustainable alternative to gift wrapping is furoshiki. Which is a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth used to wrap gifts or carry belongings. The type of fabric that is most commonly used is cotton, silk, nylon, or rayon. I love using fabric instead of single-use gift wraps to reduce waste. Cloth wrapping doesn't only look gorgeous, but it can last a very long time. You can use various pattern designs or colors depending on who you are planning on gifting it to. I wanted to make the fabric wrap using materials I already had at home. I found these beautiful fabric scraps I've used in previous projects. They were perfect and came out better than I expected.

MATERIALS:

• Fabric 
• Scissors
• Needle & thread or sewing machine
• Optional: greenery or flowers

DIRECTIONS:

1.) Cut the fabric to your desired size or depending on the size of your gift. (Mine measures 60 by 60 cm.)

2.) With the right side facing down, fold and press half an inch from the edge. 

3.) Fold and press the edge again. (Do this to each side.)

4.) Pin the edges so they won't unfold.

5.) Sew using a straight stitch by hand or with a sewing machine. 

6.) Do this to each side, and you are done!

7.) Decorate the gift with greenery or dried flowers.

Designing earrings are so much fun, especially if you like wearing unique jewelry. My outfits are often simple, so to spice things up, I always throw on a pair of dangling earrings. Accessories always help add interest to any of my outfits. I've been wanting new earrings, so I took the opportunity to make a new pair. I headed to the nearest craft store to buy all the supplies I needed to tackle this project.

MATERIALS NEEDED:

• Hoop earrings
• Earring hooks
• Beads
• Pliers
• Optional: charms  (I made my own, learn how here.)

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MATERIALS:

• Water Color Paint
• Watercolor Paper
• Paintbrushes
• Ribbon, Tassel, or String
• Scissors
• Marker or Pen

 I love terracotta pots because they're affordable, easily accessible, and are fun to customize. I found these mini planters at my local dollar tree, along with these succulents. I went for a simple design that is easy to recreate.  I love the overlapping layers of paint that give the pots a more modern look. I picked neutral colors to match the decor in my home, but I know it would also look great in vibrant colors.

 MATERIALS:

• Terracotta pots
• Acrylic paint
• Paintbrushes
• Greenery

(Watch the full tutorial on Jumrope or continue below for the step-by-step tutorial.)

Are you trying to grow your hair this summer? Then you might want to try this natural aloe vera hair mask. Aloe vera is known for its healing properties, but it's also shown to boost hair growth. This succulent is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It helps keep your scalp hydrated, treats dry hair, and promotes healthier hair. Creating this recipe is easy and consists of 3 simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen, so let's begin...

ALOE VERA: Aloe vera contains amino acids, vitamins A, C, and E that help strengthen the hair, promote hair growth, improves shine, and make the hair softer. It also reduces dandruff and prevents itching on the scalp. Aloe vera also contains vitamin B12 and folic acid that prevents hair fall and breakage. 

CASTOR OIL: Castor oil contains fatty acid ricinoleic acid. When applied to the scalp, it increases blood circulation, which helps promote hair growth. It reduces inflammation which can help treat dandruff. Castor oil reduces hair loss, strengthens the hair, and nourishes a dry scalp. 

VITAMIN E OIL: Vitamin e oil promotes a healthy scalp, increases hair growth, prevents hair loss, and increases hair shine.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tbsp aloe vera gel
• 1 tbsp castor oil
• 1 tsp vitamin e oil

 MATERIALS:

• Canvas Tote Bag
• Fabric Paint
• Paintbrush
• Pencil

(Watch the full tutorial on Jumprope or continue below for the step-by-step picture tutorial.)