Free Time Frolics

Patriotic Pinwheel Hair clip or pin

June 7, 2013 By: Freetimefrolics

Today is so exciting! I have teamed up with some of my favorite bloggy friends to bring you:

7 Blogs

7 Projects

and

7 Times the Fun

All centered around the 4th of July!

Not sure what to bring to that BBQ? Want that perfect red, white and blue decoration? How about what to wear? We have got you covered!

So please sit back, relax(I’m grabbing some swedish fish and red cream soda), and enjoy these 7 fabulous projects!

1. Melissa of Hollyhocks & Honeybees

2. Emily of The Benson Street

3. Candice of She’s Crafty

4. Ashley of flats to flip flops

5. Adrienne of Free Time Frolics

6. Andie of Maybe I Will

7. Kaylynn of Among the Young

I am always looking for an amazing hair do-dad for the Little Miss. I like unique items that no one else will have. It’s important to me. I live in a small city with few choices. So everyone has the same stuff. So I come up with my own variety! So today I am sharing my quick and easy Patriotic Hair Pinwheels! These beauties are easy to make and require no sewing. Just a little ironing and glue.

Supplies:

fabric scraps

Peltex or Tim Tex. Fusible on both sides

button

I started with a navy dot and red and white chevron for the 4th.

Cut 2 fabrics into squares. Whatever size you want.

Cut a matching square of Heat and bond. Iron on to wrong side of fabric.

Iron second fabric onto first fabric. Wrong sides will be together. Press.

Draw an “X” with a pencil from corner to corner on the square.

Clip corners about 2 inches. On a larger square you will cut about half way.

Pull 4 corners into center. Either stitch or hot glue corner tips down in the center. If you are making a hair elastic punch a hole in the center of the of the pinwheel.

Next if this is going to be a pin. glue or stitch a button to the center. Then stitch a corsage pin to the back like this one.

If you are making a hair tie. Find a button with a shank on the back or make your own button with a button kit from Joanns. Take a hair elastic, thread it through the shank. Pull one end into the center of the other end and pull tight.

Stick the elastic through the hole of the pinwheel. glue down your button and you are ready to go!

You could also just add a hair clip to the back to add to anything including a headband.

I did my little girls hair in a messy bun on the side for the photo below. I just L-O-V-E it!

For patterns to make your own patriotic outfit check out my shoppe. They are the Knotty Knickers and Smocked Bubble top.

These ideas are amazing. I am so lucky to be apart of this fantastic groups of bloggers! Be sure to check them out! I can’t wait to try these projects out myself! For more 4th of July projects, and crafts check out these posts!

Firecrackers Tablescape

4th of July Mantel

Subway Art

4th of July Outfit

Homemade Restaurant Style Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate

June 5, 2013 By: Freetimefrolics

Do you love Restaurant styled fruity lemonade? Fresh lemonade is one of my favorites! I love a tall glass of with a sugar rimmed glass. Served with a steak and potato. Yum! I wanted this lemonade all summer long. I found this recipe online and tweeked it just a bit to fit my fancy. I love home canning. {Check out my canning post. I am kind of a canning nerd!}Especially when its tastes so good! So I used my home canning and food storage skills to bring you this yummy drink!

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Home Canning 101 Favorite Supplies

June 3, 2013 By: Freetimefrolics

I love home canning. I guess it started when I was young. I use to help my grandmother can hundreds of jars of fruits and veggies every year. That was just what she did. My grandparents never bought a jar of peaches or green beans or corn. She canned everything. They always grew a garden and preserved everything. I learned early on how to do these things. Then as I got older we did less and less. Until I was married and had kids of my own. I decided I wanted to can a few things for my kids. Knowing what is in our food is so important to me. So I called up my Granny and wrote down everything she told me about canning. I purchased a book on preserving the harvest and started my canning collection. My first piece of canning equipment was my grandmothers water bath. I think it’s about 50 years old. Each year or two I added a piece to my collection based on what I wanted to can that year. I so far have collected most of my canning supplies and I can can most anything. So today I am going to share my favorite canning supplies and a few canning recipes!

A great canning and food preservation book

The ball canning book is the bible of all canning books. There is a reason they have been in business so long. This book is amazing. Chock full of information and recipes. I have also gathered canning recipes from around the internet. You can find them {Here} on my Pinterest Board.

Water Bath/ Steam Bath Dual Canner:

This was my very first Canning item. I used my grandmas water bath canner she was no longer using. It is very old and still works great. A couple years a go my mom bought me a new one, so I have two. My new one is a dual canner that can do steam as well as a water bath. I use this canner for most everything I can.

Fruit juices, jelly’s, applesauce, berries, corn, and fruit

Dehydrator:

What to look for in a Dehydrator: Temperature control, size for your family, where the fan is, what do you want to make.

My current dehydrator is small and inexpensive. I bought it to dry apples from my Mom’s 7 apple trees. I started with apples and pears. {FYI Dried pears taste like candy.} I tried peaches but they were just okay. Now that I have been dehydrating a few years, I wish I had a larger dehydrator. One where I can control air flow, temperature and is larger. With my growing kids I find I go through these foods faster. They love to eat fresh, dehydrated foods for snacks and I like it that way. Maybe some day I can get the Excalibur of dehydrators!! Then I can dehydrate to my heart content.

With my dehydrator I have made: Dried apples, peaches, pears, fruit roll ups

Sauce maker / Food Strainer:

What to look for in a Sauce Maker: Sturdy, how many parts, replaceable parts

I love my sauce maker. Remember all those apples? Well I make Apple sauce too. Fresh apple sauce is the best. I find that I use it for eating, baking and making homemade fruit roll ups. I have yet to venture out to other amazing sauces. Maybe this year is my year?..

With your sauce maker you can make pumpkin puree, seedless jelly, salsa and so much more. You can purchase different sizes of grinding filters to change the consistency of your sauce. Like your apple sauce chunky?? They have a grinder for that.

With my Sauce maker I have made: Apple Sauce, Flavored apple sauces, Pumpkin Puree

Steam Juicer:

What to look for in a Steam Juicer: Size of juicer, Stainless steel, Replaceable parts

My steam juicer is awesome. I love making homemade grape and apple juice for my kids. We drink it more for a treat on holiday more than anything. Just add a quart of home made juice and some sprite and you have sparkling juice for a special night for pennies a glass. I started using mine to steam my apples and then use them for apple sauce. I add a small amount of juice back to the sauce and can the rest a s juice. Delicious!

I love the stainless steel version. It is super easy for clean up. The only part that may need to be replace on my steamer is the silicone hose. I have had mine for 5 years and so far so good. I think this one will last me years. I use the 9 1/2 Quart size steam juicer. I find it works for me. I don’t can tons of jars at a time. I usually make 20-30 jars of juice total each year.

With my juicer I have made: Cherry Juice, Cherry limeade, Apple Juice and Grape Juice as well as steaming my apples for juice and to make apple sauce.

Pressure Canner

What to look for in a Pressure canner: How many jars can you do all at once, replaceable parts, stainless steel.

With a pressure canner you can, can anything. Meats, veggies, fruits, sauces. My favorite is canned Chicken. The flavor or home canned chicken is the best and so much less expensive than store bought canned chicken. I have been canning Chicken with a girlfriend for a few years. But I finally got a pressure canner of my own. Now I am just waiting for the chicken to go on sale.

Another great tip if you are canning a ton is to take it outside. We have a Camp Chef stove that we hook up in the garage (with the door open) and do all the cooking outside. Just set up a few tables and you are ready to go. Last summer I spent the day with some neighbors and we canned 90 jars of corn jelly, corn salsa and bagged frozen corn. We had a great time talking, laughing and canning our food for the winter together. Canning is so fun together. I learned so much from them. Find a few ladies and venture into something new this summer.

Here are a few of my favorite products on Amazon. I have either tried these specific items or own them myself. I have been very happy with all of them. Some were just meant to be starters but I have used them for many years. Start small and just pick one or two things to can. Each year build from there. I started with my grandmas old canner and did peaches, pears and raspberries my first 2 years. I worked my way up to apples sauce, grape juice, dried fruits and finally I am able to can chicken and veggies. There is a whole world of canning and preservation out there. I can’t wait to dig and a get canning!!

Leave me some feedback. What do you like to can?? Are you new to canning?? I want to hear all about it!

For more canning tips from the experts check out these websites

National Center for Home Canning

USDA Guide to home Canning

Amazon.com Widgets

Check out the entire post on my blog www.freetimefrolics.com

Cosette’s Closet & Riley Blake Pattern Giveaway

May 29, 2013 By: Freetimefrolics

Tote bag Giveaway

Silhouette Cameo Giveaway

Its another day of Birthday Celebrations!! I am so excited to share with your my newest patterns! I have been working on them for a while and they are finally finished! Today I have teamed up with Riley Blake Designs and we are giving away my 4 newest patterns and 3 yards of yummy Knit fabric.

Now let me tell you a bit about this fabric. It is the yummiest, softest & most luxurious knit I have ever worked with. It is worth every penny. When I received my box to make these outfits I was blown away by the quality of the fabric. It runs through your sewing machine like nothing else. No puckers or tucks! I could sew on it all day. I can’t wait to get my hands on more. They have a whole new line coming in soon. Check out all the beauty at Riley Blake Designs!

On to my patterns. To see all about them. Check out my blog www.cosettescloset.blogspot.com I share all the details about my patterns and where to buy them. You can also visit my etsy shop to purchase them and others. Enter below and spread the word

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Don’t Forget to enter the Tag Along Tote giveaway too…

Tag Along Tote Bag Tutorial + Giveaway

May 27, 2013 By: Freetimefrolics

***This tote bag has been updated to reflect changes in the original shape, size, and attachment of the handles. The construction of the bag is similar but the new tote has a slightly different look, and size. shape and handle attachment.

So a few months ago I made this bag for a blog conference. I also made these adorable bags for my roommates.
Each one was a little different and personalized. My roomies loved them and I got several compliments on them. I was asked several times where I got them. My answer “Umm I made them”. Next question do you sell them and do you have a tutorial? The answer, is yes I make them no I do not have a tutorial. Well, Blog readers today I have a tutorial. This bag takes about 1-2 hours and looks great any time of year. I love to take it to the park, the beach or just shopping with a friend. It fits everything you need for a fun day getaway! I love that I can make a new one with beautiful fabric to match anything. And today you can make one too! I added an inside pocket for a cell phone too.

Craft Blog Branding

Each one was a little different and personalized. My roomies loved them and I got several compliments on them. I was asked several times where I got them. My answer “Umm I made them”. Next question do you sell them and do you have a tutorial? The answer, is yes I make them no I do not have a tutorial. Well, Blog readers today I have a tutorial. This bag takes about 1-2 hours and looks great any time of year. I love to take it to the park, the beach or just shopping with a friend. I love that I can make a new one with beautiful fabric to match anything.
Here is what you need:
1/2 yard of your favorite fabric
1/2 yard of your second coordinating favorite fabric
1/2 yard canvas fabric or lining depending on the durability you want.
1/4 yard fabric for your pockets
Coordinating thread
4 “D” Rings 1 inch size or bigger I like 1.5 inch “D” Rings
Free Tote bag pattern

Pattern Instructions

Start by cutting your tote bag pieces. You will cut 2 for the main body, Inside and canvas, and straps. Cut 1 strip of inside fabric for the pockets. Cut strips 3 inches by 22 inches. I like my straps a little longer. You may like them shorter. Go with what you love. Pocket will be cut width of the bottom of the bag and about 6 inches tall.

For handles place 2 fabrics right sides together. Place canvas on the wrong side of the main fabric.
Stitch along one long edge of handles.

Press open and fold over showing both fabrics and canvas in the middle. Fold and press long and short edges as though you are hemming the straps.

Top stitch along all sides of the handles
Sew your ends to a “D” Ring.

Start by hemming your pocket along one long edge. Take your pocket panel and place it on top of one inside panel. Lining up the bottom edges. Pin down. I measure mine into 3rd and place a pin. Then stitch a line down. Securing the fabric and making 3 pockets. Your last seams will come when you sew the bag together.

For the inside fabric place the right sides together. Stitch along the 3 sides. Leaving a 3-inch open seam at the bottom.
Repeat the last step for the outside of the tote. For the outside of the bag make a sandwich canvas, fabric RS up, fabric WS up then canvas.
Stitch around the bottom and sides from top corner to top corner.

Turn inside fabric right sides out. Place inside fabric and outer fabric on right sides together. Line up edges and pin them into place. Stitch all the way around.

Turn the bag through the opening in the bottom of the inside of the bag.

Press bag, ensuring the insides and outside match up. Begin top-stitching around the top handle straps of the tote bag. Stitch the inside opening closed.

Fold the handle, fold ends around a “D” Ring and stitch across. Repeat this step by attaching the opposite end of the D ring and attaching the tote bag straps.😊

30 minute T- Shirt Dress Tutorial

May 24, 2013 By: Freetimefrolics

I love myself an easy project. This one it on the top of my list. My little girl loves skirts and dresses. Sometimes we just need something easy. These easy t-shirt dresses make a great swimsuit cover up, lounge dress, or baby doll dress with leggings. Want to make your own? Here is how you do it.

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Thank You “Subway” Gift Card Printable

May 22, 2013 By: Freetimefrolics

This year for the end of the school year teacher gift, my kids wanted to give there teachers a gift card. We decided to go with Subway gift cards. Not only is it a healthy choice but a great quick on the go meal for a summer picnic. I made these fun gift card holders to go with them. One as a Thank you that anyone can use and one for teachers. Just click and print from your home computer and add a gift card.

I made 2 choices one reads:

There is no “Sub”stitute for a teacher like you! –Thank you for a great school year.

2 option print

Fresh start printable

And the other is a general thank you card that can be used for anyone. It says

I wish there was :”Subway” to Thank you- So here is a fresh start to your summer

If you like them both here is a version with one of each printable.Please follow the Free Printable Guidlines:

I would love for you to become a follower of Free Time Frolics via Rss or Facebook. More Free Printables are coming. You don’t want to miss out.
Free Time Frolics printables are for PERSONAL USE only. You may not re-sell, re-distribute, or claim them as your own.
If posting on the internet, you MUST post a link back to the original post or this page.
Freebie printables are offered “as is” unless otherwise noted.
Pin, share, use in your home or as a gift. Enjoy!

Summer Grab & Go Bags! Are you ready?

May 16, 2013 By: Freetimefrolics

Are you enjoying the 31 days of Summer Fun? There are so many great activities! Today I am sharing my Summer Grab and Go Bags! This is my way to be a little more organized this summer and have fun with my kids without all the stress! I only get 18 summers with them. I so I need to make them count. So I introduce to your my Summer Grab and Go Bags!

Are you ready for summer? My kids have 2 weeks left of school. With summer getting ready to make its entrance I am trying to get prepared and ready. No sitting around the house for my kiddos. (Okay so we may have a few lazy days this summer, that’s what it’s for right?) I like to think I am organized. In reality I am organized in some things and not others. When it comes to preparedness I am pretty good. So this summer I am going to be ready to go on a whim.

We frequently get calls from friends to go do fun things in the summer. The conversations usually go like this.

(Her) “Hey we are going to the lake, want to come?

(Me)Sure, when you leaving?

(Her)In 20 minutes……

(Me) Ummmm Okay…..

(I say this while still sitting in my PJ’s or work out clothes.)

So what do you do? For me it’s a chance to get out of the house and unplugged for the day. You have to take the opportunity, right? So here is what I do!

Have a Grab & Go bag! I have one for the Lake/ beach and one for the park.

Want to see what I put in my bags? Well today is your lucky day! Here we go!

Swim Bag-

TJ Maxx Bag, Swim suits, towels, sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, pocket first aid kit, baby powder (to remove sand from feet), sand toys, toiletries, diapers, wipes, swim diapers all wrapped up and tucked in a bag. I also include a plastic grocery sack in my bag for garbage.

You may need to add a few things to yours. I try to keep my kids goggles and cover up as well.

Park bag-

sunscreen, first aid kit, water bottles, snacks, Frisbee or ball, sand toy, blanket and a plastic bag for garbage.

You may have a few more items you need or don’t need from my list. I add 2 diapers and a small bag of wipes for my baby.

Summer Fun Bucket-

Any outside toys your kids would love that are age appropriate. I like to give them to my kids on there last day of school. Here are a few my kids love.

Frisbee, football, round ball, bubbles, bug catchers, chalk, sunglasses, hat, water bottle, sand toys, water toys, squirt gun, water balloons, sponge water balls