tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80636546762473615552024-03-07T21:21:21.846-08:00Fabfrocks at hometor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-53615033205512541292013-06-06T12:13:00.001-07:002013-06-06T12:13:56.449-07:00My dream bedroom: Created by Laura AshleyHi guys,<br />
<em>This post is an entry to a competition being run by Laura Ashley on</em><a href="http://www.talesofanniebean.com/2013/05/win-1000-to-refresh-your-room-with.html"><em> the quarter-life Tales of Annie Bean blog. </em></a><em>The prize is a £1000 voucher to refresh a room in your house: definitely worth checking out!</em> <br />
<br />
Although it feels like we've been in our new house forever, because it already feel so much like home, we've actually only been living here for two months. And whilst I'm pleased with the progress we've made so far, we still have so much more to do. Including completely decorating our spare room! Before we moved in we painted it a lovely lilac shade called <em>Ophelia Plum</em> from the Crown Heritage range, then we proceeded to fill the room with the boxes that will eventually go in here. But at this point we have no bed, no auxiliary furniture, no anything! That's right! This room doesn't just need refreshing, it needs everything: a complete rescue! Here's how it looks right now:
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/spareroom_zpsc6ac2699.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo spareroom_zpsc6ac2699.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/spareroom_zpsc6ac2699.png" /></a>
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/spareroom2_zpsf1f4d5ab.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo spareroom2_zpsf1f4d5ab.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/spareroom2_zpsf1f4d5ab.png" /></a>
But in my dream world, with £1,000 to spend in Laura Ashley (the perfect shop to create a calm and classic spare bedroom we would be proud to have our friends and family sleep in) these are the pieces I would choose to decorate it with:
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/dreambedroom_zps4d30521d.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo dreambedroom_zps4d30521d.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/dreambedroom_zps4d30521d.png" /></a>
<br />
Thanks to the amazing sale and offers on the <a href="http://www.lauraashley.com/">Laura Ashley website</a> at the moment, everything on my wishlist can be picked up for less than £1000: leaving change to check out some of their great fashion offerings too. Everyone wins! <br />
<br />
If you had £1,000 to spend in Laura Ashley what would you buy? And do you have a room in your house that is in desperate need of a makeover? <br />
<br />
Love Tor xx <br />
<br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks:</strong> <a href="http://fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/trends-day-at-races.html">Trends - A day at the races</a> <br />
<br />tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-60621153637961593172013-05-29T13:53:00.000-07:002013-05-29T13:53:00.543-07:00Shopping: Ikea milk churn vasesHi guys,<br />
Just a quick mini post to sing the praises of my new Ikea milk churn vases (Ikea product name: SOCKER). I am currently using these for flowers to brighten up my living room. But if you have a country style kitchen they would also look great used for utensil storage too.
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/ikeavase_zps8660512a.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo ikeavase_zps8660512a.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/ikeavase_zps8660512a.png" /></a>
The two vases sit together, for simple space saving and (bonus points) they look pretty good paired too. The tall vase simple slips inside the wider vase. They also come in cream and red if the blue's not your colour. I'm slightly in love with this shade of blue, which is one of the reasons I made a beeline for these the second I saw them in store. <br />
<br />
You can find the vases <a href="http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/30236011/">here on the Ikea website.</a> <br />
<br />
Love Tor x <br />
<br />
PS- The Ikea sale started on bank holiday Monday (27th May) and is running until 23rd June. I'm itching to get down there and check it out - of course I will be reporting back!! <br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Latest on fabfrocks: Dailywear -</strong> <a href="http://www.fabfrocks.blogspot.com/">A nice day for a white Christening</a><br />
<strong>Latest on fabfrocks and family:</strong> <a href="http://fabfrocksfamily.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/days-out-guide-dinosaur-adventure.html">Days out Guide - Dinosaur Adventure, Weston Park</a>tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-92063323080243401752013-05-27T09:05:00.005-07:002013-05-27T09:05:59.295-07:00Our New House: The master bedroom Hi guys,<br />
The starting point for decorating our master bedroom was that we both agreed we wanted it to be grey. Mike wanted grey teamed with red, for a London theme. I wanted a bang-on-trend grey and chartreuse. In the end we went for grey teamed with....grey. And a little beige. And lots of white furniture so it still feels bright and fresh. <br />
<br />
Ultimately we wanted it to have a luxurious boutique hotel feel, and be a calm, baby-free place we could both feel comfortable and relax. Here's a quick before picture of what the room looked like when we moved in, just after we'd started our painting:<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/bedroom1_zps50625e2f.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo bedroom1_zps50625e2f.jpg" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/bedroom1_zps50625e2f.jpg" /></a>
The room was very simply painted in a warm medium brown colour. And here's how it looks now;
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/bedroom2_zps294fd4a2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo bedroom2_zps294fd4a2.jpg" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/bedroom2_zps294fd4a2.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/bedroom3_zps11c784fd.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo bedroom3_zps11c784fd.jpg" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/bedroom3_zps11c784fd.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/bedroom4_zps6735ca3e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo bedroom4_zps6735ca3e.jpg" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/bedroom4_zps6735ca3e.jpg" /></a>
We painted three of the walls in a warm grey (Shade 'Wishing Well' from the Crown Heritage emulsion range). We then papered the back wall which the bed sits against in a dark grey optical illusion wallpaper with a soft metallic sheen that we got on sale from John Lewis. <br />
<br />
The furniture is all from Ikea. The Big Ben lamp is from the Ben de Lisi range at Debenhams. I've had two sets of new bedding from Next. And the bedspread was a massive bargain from TK Maxx. Three of the four cushions are from Homebase (the top one has Wilburs handprints on it and was handmade for me) and the throw at the end of the bed was from Primark for the ridiculously bargain price of £3. <br />
<br />
I would like new curtains (I've just used the grey and white striped curtains we had in the bedroom in our old house, but they're a little light) And we still have three big pictures to add to the wall opposite our feature wall. But this is it; the first room in the house that we've finished decorating, and I'm pleased as punch with it! <br />
<br />
One room down. Six more rooms to go.....<br />
<br />
Love Tor x tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-73362247852745166042013-05-21T02:58:00.001-07:002013-05-21T03:02:55.307-07:00Shopping: In love with Rob RyanHi guys,<br />
For my birthday my little sister bought me the <a href="http://www.misterrob.co.uk/">Rob Ryan</a> 'This bell' vase. It was a wonderful present, because I love Rob Ryan prints, and already have a set of side plates. My next planned acquisition is a set of six mugs. I love the designs, the simple use of colour, the schmaltzy sentimental messages. Reading them makes me smile and they are the kind of designs that brighten up your day a little. <br />
<br />
And I just can't get enough of this picture from the homepage of the Rob Ryan website. If I could make my office look <em>exactly</em> like this one, then I would be a very happy young (or not so young!) lady: <br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/robryan1_zps11f73cc0.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo robryan1_zps11f73cc0.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/robryan1_zps11f73cc0.png" /></a>
<br />
I turn thirty on my next birthday (gulp). And I already know what I want to mark the big occasion: A huge Rob Ryan papercutting of my very own to hang with pride of place in my living room. Of course, given I know my husband doesn't have a spare £7,000 knocking around in his bank account, I know that's a pipe dream. But it's a very good one! And I'll settle for a smaller screen print instead (hint: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/84059276/everything-that-is-supposed-to-be-in?ref=shop_home_active">I like this one</a>!)! Or some mugs, egg cups, tea towels, and I think I've just decided how I'd like to tile my kitchen....<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/robryan2_zpsdb3c6e9a.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo robryan2_zpsdb3c6e9a.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/robryan2_zpsdb3c6e9a.png" /></a>
All of the selection above are available from the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/misterrob">Rob Ryan Etsy shop</a>. If I could have it all, I would! <br />
<br />
Love Tor x <br />
<br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks:</strong> <a href="http://fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/shoes-be-lady-in-red-heels.html">Shoes - Be a lady in red (heels)</a>tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-46261588378957412182013-05-19T07:41:00.001-07:002013-05-19T07:41:03.564-07:00Project: A windowsill herb gardenHi guys,<br />
One of my home mini projects for this weekend was to create a little herb garden on our kitchen windowsill. I love having herbs growing in the kitchen: it means your kitchen always smells lovely, and it really makes a difference to your cooking when you can add fresh herbs (even a bowl of pauper's pasta tastes like a treat with some fresh basil in it!) <br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/herbgarden1_zps90b83d5c.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo herbgarden1_zps90b83d5c.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/herbgarden1_zps90b83d5c.png" /></a>
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/herbgarden2_zps262acc78.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo herbgarden2_zps262acc78.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/herbgarden2_zps262acc78.png" /></a>
You can pick up very affordable herbs plants from your local garden centre or from a chain DIY shop like Homebase or B&Q. Or, if you like to bag a bargain (like me) and you live near a car boot sale, have a look there. There are always stalls selling plants and flowers at this time of year, and I picked up each of my herb plants for just 50p each at our local boot sale this morning. <br />
<br />
The indoor planter pots were from Matalan for just £3 (<a href="http://www.matalan.co.uk/homeware/seasonal-trends/miami-beach/s2523436/decal-planter-12.5cm-x-13cm">available to buy here</a>) and the fork markers were a present from my mum and dad (brought all the way back from an antique shop in America).<br />
<br />
The other jobs on my hit list for this weekend are to paint our entrance porch, build our new garden furniture, and finally unpack the last boxes in our bedroom: admittedly, buying a few plants and pots was the easiest job on the list, but at least I can say I've achieved something other than watching Eurovision this weekend! <br />
<br />
Have you done any projects in your house this weekend? I'd love to hear all about them!<br />
<br />
Love Tor x tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-14415027201428045612013-05-15T00:04:00.001-07:002013-05-15T00:05:37.060-07:00Our New House: The before pictures!Hi guys,<br />
Sorry for the long gap between posts. With looking after Wilbur, and the (frankly confusing) process of buying our first house, there hasn't been much time to drool over gorgeous interiors. But we did it - we are now officially homeowners and we moved in last week! <br />
<br />
There's plenty of decorating, unpacking and repair work to do. But for now, here's what the house looks like before the process begins: <br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/newhouse1_zpsfaed15df.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo newhouse1_zpsfaed15df.jpg" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/newhouse1_zpsfaed15df.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/newhouse4_zpsdc1e9b77.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo newhouse4_zpsdc1e9b77.jpg" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/newhouse4_zpsdc1e9b77.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/newhouse2_zpscc2f6e15.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo newhouse2_zpscc2f6e15.jpg" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/newhouse2_zpscc2f6e15.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/newhouse3_zpsde714590.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo newhouse3_zpsde714590.jpg" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/newhouse3_zpsde714590.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/newhouse6_zps73ab4623.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo newhouse6_zps73ab4623.jpg" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/newhouse6_zps73ab4623.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/newhouse7_zpsd2f6038e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo newhouse7_zpsd2f6038e.jpg" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/newhouse7_zpsd2f6038e.jpg" /></a>
<br />
So what have we got? Well it's a three bedroom house with an entrance porch, large open plan living/dining area (with gorgeous bamboo floors) and a frankly disgusting kitchen downstairs. Upstairs are three bedrooms (2 double and one single, which will become my office) and a bathroom. Out back we have a garden big enough for BBQs and a veggie patch, and a garage. Our own little patch to call home! <br />
<br />
I'm planning on adding wallpaper feature walls to the master bedroom and living room. Every room in the house needs painting. The doors and windowsills need stripping back and varnishing. The stairs are going to be power cleaned and painted. And the kitchen needs updating without spending too much money. And that's just my job list for the next month! <br />
<br />
Over the next couple of months I will be posting hundreds of posts inspired by our new house: room makeovers, shopping wish-lists, and no doubt curses about how hard all this DIY is. I can't wait! <br />
<br />
Love Tor x <br />
<br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks:</strong> <a href="http://www.fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/ss13-mellow-yellow-from-asos-africa.html">Mellow Yellow from ASOS AFRICA</a>tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-60153121670733446472013-03-11T03:56:00.004-07:002013-03-11T03:56:45.376-07:00Primark's Home range for SS13: New arrivals Hi guys,<br />
Making your house look nice, and making your stamp on your living environment doesn't have to cost a fortune. Back when I was a student or starting my first post-uni job, and flat broke, I still wanted my rooms/flats/houses to look as nice as possible. To be places I wanted to go back to at the end of the day. And to reflect my personal tastes. <br />
<br />
Luckily, thanks to shops like Primark and their homeware ranges, that's an attainable goal for almost everyone. Buy a new throw for £3 and a couple of £5 cushions and your bed will immediately look more inviting. Toss a floral towel (instead of that white one that's gone grey!) over the back of your chair, and instead of looking untidy, you'll look like you're making a style statement. <br />
<br />
£20 spent in Primark can freshen up any room: affordable for even the poorest of student. Here are my picks from the lastest new arrivals that you will find in store right now: <br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/primarkhome1_zps1d268466.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo primarkhome1_zps1d268466.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/primarkhome1_zps1d268466.png" /></a>
<em>Square votive candle, £2. Patchwork cushion, £5. Jade floral towels, £1.50- £9.</em> <br />
<em>Love cushion, £5. Patchwork hearts cushion, £5. Chick shower cap, £1.50</em><br />
<em>Patchwork throw, £15. Cupcake doorstop, £5. Cupcake kit, £2. </em><br />
<br />
I actually really like the look of those jade floral towels. And I know my cupcake obsessed sister will just love that cupcake doorstop! Have you picked up any Primark homewares? Do you have any tips for styling your space on a very tight budget? I'd love to hear them! <br />
<br />
Love Tor xx tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-55772875460365882132013-03-05T07:45:00.001-08:002013-03-05T07:45:23.283-08:00Pattern love: Sanderson Dandelion Clocks Hi guys,<br />
I have a new pattern obsession: the Sanderson Dandelion Clocks pattern. As soon as I saw it I knew that it would be the wallpaper for the feature wall in my living room (When we finally get the new house signed off: fingers crossed!): I just can't decide which-colour way to go for. Blue and green or purple and yellow. Decisions, decisions!!
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/dandelion2_zps86c0e233.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo dandelion2_zps86c0e233.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/dandelion2_zps86c0e233.png" /></a>
Those aren't the only colour-ways though - there are around a dozen different options. And this pattern must be popular! Not only can you buy the wallpaper and the fabrics, you can also buy the cushions, the bedding, the mugs, and even place mats and coasters. I found one website that was selling a full dinner service with the pattern on it. It's the matchy-matchy homeowners dream!<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/dandelion1_zpsef22c947.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo dandelion1_zpsef22c947.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/dandelion1_zpsef22c947.png" /></a>
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/dandelion3_zps38aae6e2.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo dandelion3_zps38aae6e2.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/dandelion3_zps38aae6e2.png" /></a>
It has a really lovely retro mid-century feel, but it's still very modern, especially in the blue and green colourway. I've spent the past month looking at various wallpaper patterns near daily: I've been ordering samples online and trawling wallpaper vendors at the weekends like a woman possessed! But as soon as I saw the pattern I knew that it was the one. It really was love at first sight! <br />
<br />
I will be buying my wallpaper from <a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/">John Lewis</a>. You can also find alternative stockists on the <a href="http://www.sanderson-uk.com/wallpaper.aspx">Sanderson website.</a><br />
<br />
Love Tor x tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-27079166221997966352013-02-27T00:16:00.002-08:002013-02-27T00:16:57.124-08:00Captivating cushions: Buy from Brand Alley today! Hi guys,<br />
When it comes to soft furnishings, my motto is more is more. I like my sofas and beds to be covered in blankets, and stuffed full of cushions and pillows: and if they're all mismatched, all the better! I guess you could say I have a varied taste when it comes to interiors, so the style of our house is eclectic (I think that's the polite way of saying slightly mental!) Even the baby's room is a cushion-fest: The sofa in his room is covered in a whopping 7 different pillows! <br />
<br />
Today I am planning on adding even more cushions to the mix in our bedroom: because <a href="http://www.brandalley.co.uk/">BrandAlley</a> have an amazing cushion sale, with all cushions up to 50% off! BrandAlley is one of my favourite designer discount sites: the fashion choices are always great, but they also often have wonderful interiors options.<br />
<br />
Here are some of my favourite cushions in today's sale, and prices start from just £7! <br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/cushions_zps86b817a0.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo cushions_zps86b817a0.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/cushions_zps86b817a0.png" /></a>
The sale is running from today until Sunday 3rd March, and like all sales, the best stuff tends to go fairly quickly: so if you're looking to add some more cushions to your collection (like me!) then you'd better get a move on!! <br />
<br />
Love Tor x<br />
<br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks</strong>: <a href="http://www.fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/">If you buy one think this spring make it neon</a><br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks and Family:</strong><a href="http://www.fabfrocksfamily.blogspot.com/"> Baby boy fashion buy of the week</a>tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-7533701359022408062013-02-20T01:51:00.001-08:002013-02-20T02:01:43.719-08:00Inspiration: Painted Staircases Hi guys,<br />
The house we are buying (fingers crossed!) has stripped wood floors throughout. Lovely! But sadly the current owners have also stripped the staircase to reveal a not-especially-nice shiny wooden staircase underneath. We've talked about carpeting it to hide the hideousness. But in doing a little googling I came across an even better idea I thought I'd share with you guys: painted staircases!
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/staircases_zpsc719fc46.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo staircases_zpsc719fc46.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/staircases_zpsc719fc46.png" /></a>
<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/staircases2_zpsd86e872e.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo staircases2_zpsd86e872e.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/staircases2_zpsd86e872e.png" /></a>
Reasonably cheap to achieve (Ronseal diamond hard floor paint costs £30 per 2.5 litre tin), all it really takes is a little hard work and accuracy with a paintbrush. And the paint dries in two hours, so if you time it right you can still get up the stairs to bed that night! <br />
<br />
As you can see people have done things from the very simple (painting the stairs just one colour - this is what I would want to do) to the thoroughly creative and artistic: the only restriction is your imagination! I especially love the staircase that was painted with blackboard paint: if your staircase is opposite your front door you could leave messages for your partner/family to see as they walked into the house! <br />
<br />
If we do this I'll post a tutorial, and let you know how hard/easy it was to achieve! <br />
<br />
Love Tor x <br />
<br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks:</strong> <a href="http://www.fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/shoe-inspiration-check-out-ss13-sarenza.html">The Sarenza SS13 Lookbook</a><br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks and Family:</strong> <a href="http://fabfrocksfamily.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/baby-boys-fashion-bargain-of-week.html">Baby Boy fashion bargain of the week</a>tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-48593542444132640322013-02-11T07:59:00.001-08:002013-02-11T07:59:55.673-08:00Artwork for Valentine's day Hi guys,<br />
Valentine's day is just four days away. I know this not only because of the bombardment of advertising all over the TV, but also because of the number of puzzled men wandering around House of Fraser when I headed into the city centre this morning. <br />
<br />
In other (but it is related I promise) news, Hubby and I made an offer on a house this weekend and it was accepted. Which is a huge yay - we're another step closer to being home owners. It also explains why this Valentine's day we decided the presents we exchange have to be useful for the new house. Now I toyed with buying him a knife set (too boring) or bedding, and then settled on a brilliant home based gift idea: art work for Valentine's day! <br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/busprint_zps3b988662.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo busprint_zps3b988662.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/busprint_zps3b988662.png" /></a>
Hubby has mentioned a couple of times that he wanted a London themed piece of artwork for the house, to celebrate all the happy time we spent living in London, before we moved back to Norwich. His tastes run more to union jacks and photo montages though, which isn't my taste at all. Then I found this print, which fulfils his London-based criteria, whilst still being stylish enough for me. <br />
<br />
If you're looking for a home-based Valentines gift idea, why not think about a print or artwork that celebrates a special place, event or theme for you? Great for your house, and shows you care at the same time. You can't lose! <br />
<br />
This framed print is from <a href="http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/">House of Fraser</a>, and cost £25. <br />
<br />
<br />
Love Tor x<br />
<br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks:</strong> <a href="http://www.fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/ss13-more-must-haves-from-primark.html">More must-haves from Primark</a><br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks and Family</strong>: <a href="http://fabfrocksfamily.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/the-misery-of-mastitis.html"><span style="color: #bb5321;">The
misery of Mastitis</span></a> tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-57314624331400673352013-01-29T01:54:00.002-08:002013-01-29T01:56:04.175-08:00Emma Bridgewater at TKMaxx for Comic ReliefHi guys,<br />
I love Emma Bridgewater's chunky pottery: especially the mugs. So I was delighted to read about the <a href="http://www.tkmaxx.com/icat/9401?cm_mmc=email-_-24%2f01%2f2012-_-WK%2001%20Comic-_-general%20email%20clicks_CTA3">Emma Bridgewater @ TKMaxx collection</a> for Comic Relief. Now you can buy Emma Bridgewater pieces with great comedy slogans, guilt-free, because you're supporting charity as well: <br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/emmabridgewater1_zps474522be.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo emmabridgewater1_zps474522be.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/emmabridgewater1_zps474522be.png" /></a>
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/emmabridgewater2_zps1def0b69.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo emmabridgewater2_zps1def0b69.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/emmabridgewater2_zps1def0b69.png" /></a>
<br />
<em>Slogan mugs, £9.99 (at least £4 goes to Comic Relief)</em><br />
<em>Oven gloves, £7.99 (at least £4 goes to Comic Relief)</em><br />
<em>Bag for life, £9.99 (at leasy £4 goes to Comic Relief)</em><br />
<em>Aprons, £12.99 (at least £6.50 goes to Comic Relief)</em><br />
<em>Tea towels, £4.99 each (at least £2 goes to Comic Relief)</em><br />
<br />
I always like the TKMaxx Comic Relief collaborations: I still wear the Vivienne Westwood Tshirt I got two years ago (Queenie from Black Adder wearing a red nose). And I think it's a very clever idea to focus on a kitchen/baking theme for this year, given we're a nation in the grip of a baking frenzy thanks to the success of the Great British Bakeoff. Which, for the record, is one of the best shows on TV! <br />
<br />
I will definitely be getting a couple of the mugs, and the 'There are tarts in my kitchen' Tea towel. What do you think of the collaboration? Are there any pieces you've got your eyes on?<br />
<br />
Love Tor x <br />
<br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks:</strong> <a href="http://fabfrocksfamily.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/baby-brand-lust-little-marc-jacobs.html">Sales shopping at Westfield London</a><br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks and Family:</strong> <a href="http://fabfrocksfamily.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/baby-brand-lust-little-marc-jacobs.html">Baby brand lust for Little Marc Jacobs</a>tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-54194196600227758762013-01-26T11:45:00.000-08:002013-01-26T12:23:07.968-08:00Lights: Chandeliers made of cutleryHi guys,<br />
Back in November I fell in love with a chandelier made of cutlery from <a href="http://next.co.uk/">Next.</a> Sadly however when I decided to buy it and went back to pick it up in late December it had sold out. Everywhere! Online and in every store within a 100 mile radius! <br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/chandelier4_zpsceedf064.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo chandelier4_zpsceedf064.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/chandelier4_zpsceedf064.png" /></a>
Here it is! And it was a massive bargain at just £60 too. Luckily thanks to the power of eBay I got my chandelier (I had to pay £65 but it was still a bargain at that!) and I think it's a great idea and a great design. Perfect for a quirky kitchen or dining room. So I looked for alternative that was still available that I could share with you guys:<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/chandelier1_zps89143861.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo chandelier1_zps89143861.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/chandelier1_zps89143861.png" /></a>
<br />
'Hungy Suspension' by Ali Siahvoshi. £777 inc. VAT
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/chandelier2_zpsda506159.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo chandelier2_zpsda506159.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/chandelier2_zpsda506159.png" /></a><br />
Brocante three tier chandelier, POA <a href="http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture/lighting/chandeliers-pendant-lights/brocante-three-tier-chandelier/id-f_174799/">(order from here)</a><br />
<br />
My Next version was a bargain £60: Admittedly these cost considerably more than this but I just love how they look. What do you think? Do you like the idea of the cutlery chandelier? Or is it just too damn weird! I can't wait to hang mine: and I've even been looking at cutlery print wallpaper to match! <br />
<br />
Love Tor x
<br />
<br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks:</strong> <a href="http://fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/daily-wear-sale-shopping-at-westfield.html">Sale shopping at Westfield London</a><br />
<strong>Latest on Fabfrocks and Family</strong>: <a href="http://fabfrocksfamily.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/boys-like-fashion-too-polarn-o-pyret.html">Boys</a> <a href="http://fabfrocksfamily.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/boys-like-fashion-too-polarn-o-pyret.html">like fashion too - Polarn O Pyret</a>tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-44861631399347975242013-01-23T05:15:00.001-08:002013-01-23T05:15:14.488-08:00My picks from the Debenhams SS13 Home collectionsHi guys,<br />
It's that time of the year when all of the high street stores are pumping out their new season look books, and the new season pieces are starting to appear in store. When it comes to home wares, that quite often means brighter colours, pastel colours, and florals on absolutely everything. For interiors, I tend to prefer the Autumn/Winter collections: I'm just not a floral kind of gal. But that doesn't mean there isn't something to love in the new Spring ranges. <br />
<br />
I buy quite a lot of my homewares from <a href="http://www.debenhams.com/">Debenhams</a>. All of the picture frames in my living room, both of our living room lamps, and several pieces in my kitchen are from there. So I'm always interested to see what new ideas and themes they have instore. <br />
<br />
With that in mind, here are my picks from their new collections:<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/debenhamshome1_zps8c9e830b.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo debenhamshome1_zps8c9e830b.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/debenhamshome1_zps8c9e830b.png" /></a>
<em>Ben De Lisi orange Rise and Shine cushion, £22</em> <br />
<em>Sass and Belle wooden owl coasters, £15 </em><br />
<em>Tea cup vase, £15</em><br />
<em>Matthew Williamson hand mirror, £10</em><br />
<em>Heirloom fabric covered chair, £175</em><br />
<em>Yukari stacking mugs, £18.50</em><br />
<em>Ben De Lisi worktop saver, £10</em><br />
<em>Comet painted teak coffee table, £625</em><br />
<em>Comet painted teak side cabinet, £375</em><br />
<em></em><br />
I am massively impressed with their furniture this season. I did know Debenhams did furniture, but before now it has always been very generic and overpriced in my opinion. Now though, there are several pieces I love and I want to immediately add to my house! And given it's made of solid wood, the prices aren't bad either! <br />
<br />
What do you think of my picks? Has anything taken your fancy? And do you find you prefer the spring/summer or autumn/winter interiors collections from the highstreet?<br />
<br />
Love Tor xtor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-61596953190475558422013-01-22T10:09:00.000-08:002013-01-22T10:09:16.615-08:00Save v. Splurge: Charles Eames Eiffel Chair Hi guys,<br />
Like most people, when Mike and I first moved in together we bought <em>a lot</em> of cheap furniture. Ikea was our best friend. Car boot sales were our second best friend: jealousy meant that they and Ikea didn't get on. So my current home mission is to slowly but surely replace the cheaper/shabbier/most uncomfortable of our old furniture with statement pieces that will last forever: The next piece of furniture on my list to replace is our dining table and chairs. But with all things, the question is this: are dining chairs something you could splurge or save on? <br />
<br />
<strong>Splurge</strong><br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/eames1_zpscc521d91.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo eames1_zpscc521d91.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/eames1_zpscc521d91.png" /></a>
What I would really like is these Eames Eiffel chairs which are available from<a href="http://www.conranshop.co.uk/155670/EAMES-DSW-CHAIR-WHITE-WITH-MAPLE-BASE/Product"> the Conrad shop</a> for £256.80: they were originally £321 but are currently in the sale. However I just don't have that kind of money! To buy six of these chairs would cost a whopping £1,540.80: and I'd still have a dining table to buy soon. Not affordable for me. Which leads to our save option:<br />
<br />
<strong>Save</strong><br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/eames2_zps2cbe450c.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo eames2_zps2cbe450c.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/eames2_zps2cbe450c.png" /></a>
These almost exact replicas of the chair are available from <a href="http://www.lakeland-furniture.co.uk/">Lakeland Furniture</a> at a tiny fraction of the cost : they were originally £47 each but are now in the sale for £39. Of course you don't have the kudos of owning an iconic piece of furniture history. But if it's the style you want (and you don't have a huge budget to do up your house) I think you could do a lot worse. <br />
<br />
Can you tell the difference? I'm not sure I can! So for £234 (that's less than the price of one of the genuine chairs) I will be getting myself a set of six of these. <br />
<br />
Love Tor x tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-9540030723326471572013-01-21T13:31:00.000-08:002013-01-21T13:31:02.322-08:00Website lust: Folly Home Hi guys,<br />
I'm always getting a stack of press releases for new websites and new products. Some are good, some are bad, and some are frankly bizarre! But the one site I'm always happy to get press releases from is <a href="http://follyhome.co.uk/">Folly</a>. I love everything they send, and I would go as far as to say there isn't anything on their site I wouldn't love to have in my house!<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/folly1_zps1a87d278.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo folly1_zps1a87d278.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/folly1_zps1a87d278.png" /></a>
Cityscape bookends, £39.95 (<a href="http://follyhome.co.uk/living/cityscape-bookends">Clicky link</a>)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/folly2_zps1b399cda.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo folly2_zps1b399cda.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/folly2_zps1b399cda.png" /></a>
Knitted lambswool London bus cushion, £39.95 (<a href="http://follyhome.co.uk/living/knitted-lambswool-london-bus-cushion">Clicky link</a>)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/folly3_zps4601bbb2.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo folly3_zps4601bbb2.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/folly3_zps4601bbb2.png" /></a>
Eye chart tea towel, £9.95 (<a href="http://follyhome.co.uk/kitchen/eye-chart-tea-towel">Clicky link</a>)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/folly4_zps3f4329ea.png.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo folly4_zps3f4329ea.png" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/folly4_zps3f4329ea.png" /></a>
You're the best screen print, £14.95 (<a href="http://follyhome.co.uk/prints/you're-the-best-screen-print">Clicky link</a>)<br />
<br />
Everything on the site is super-affordable (nothing costs more than around £50) and it would all make amazing gifts: I'm a big fan of homewares as gifts. So much more preferable than socks you don't need, clothes that won't fit, or food that will make you bust out of the clothes that do!!<br />
<br />
There's something for everyone: the bookends are slick and modern, the tea towel is a little more quirky ans the super soft pillow would be great for a little boy. My favourite from my selection? I really do love this print! I'm a big fan of quirky prints and think they look great teamed together in an array of mismatched frames. And let's face it, who wouldn't be cheered up my a vibrant green marching band telling them how fabulous they are!tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-45858822947768682502013-01-18T02:03:00.000-08:002013-01-18T02:03:29.160-08:00Our house: The compromise living roomHi guys,<br />
Well, you've already seen <a href="http://fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/fabfrocks-at-home-my-walk-in-wardrobe.html">the dressing room</a> and <a href="http://fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/fabfrocks-at-home-circus-themed-nursery.html">the nursery</a>. Next up on the tour of our new house is the living room. Because the house has a living room and dining room, the room is much smaller than the living/dining combo room we had in the old flat. The affect is that it feels nice and cosy, full of all my favourite things.<br />
<br />
I call our living room a compromise room because Mike and I have such different tastes. He likes things minimalist, and is a huge fan of slick black furniture. Me? Well I'm the complete opposite! I like vintage, colour, and clutter! So our living room is an odd combination of both. Here's how it looks:<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/library/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/livingroom1.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/library/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/livingroom2.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/library/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/livingroom3.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/library/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/livingroom4.jpg" /></a><br />
The trunk looks vintage but isn't, it's actually from <a href="http://www.homesense.com/">Homesense</a>. The phone and lamp are both from Debenhams and the little brass bird was a bootsale acquired gift from a friend. We brought the furry stags head back from Berlin (I promise you stuffing this into Mike's rucksack because we were travelling hand-luggage-only was not a highlight of the trip!) The fireguard screen is the newest addition to this room: I got it from a carboot sale for just £1, where it needed some serious work. We scrubbed it clean, replaced the fabric inside the body of the screen and new jewelled knobs for the top (these are just ordinary doorknobs from B&Q, but they serve exactly the same purpose!)<br />
<br />
We're renting this place (we're hoping to buy early next year) so we're reluctant to paint or do any extensive refurbishment to the living room: renting and injecting personality is hard! But I do like this room: it's so cozy and just perfect for snuggling up warm in when it's cold outside.<br />
<br />
Do you have to compromise in your house? Do you have different tastes from your partner/housemates and how do you make it work?<br />
<br />
Love Tor xxtor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-45671594052467670292012-12-22T01:52:00.000-08:002013-01-18T01:52:33.093-08:00Christmas crafty Saturday: Almond snowflake cookiesHi guys,<br />
<i>I love getting crafty, and Christmas is the perfect time to exercise my love of all thing craft with a real purpose. So I thought that every Saturday during December I would share one of my seasonal crafts with you guys.</i><br />
<br />
Well, Christmas is almost upon us (just three more sleeps to go!) So I thought that rather than give you guys another sewing project you won't have the time to complete, I would give you my favourite Christmas biscuit recipe. It's my favourite because they taste delicious and it's so so simple to make: even for a not especially proficient baker like me! (I'm not being modest: you can see how unproficient I am by how messy the icing is!)<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=biscuits1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/biscuits1.jpg" /></a><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
250g softened butter<br />
150g caster sugar<br />
300g plain flour<br />
3 tbspoons almond extract<br />
250g icing sugar<br />
Icing pens/embellishment for decoration<br />
<br />
-These really are so simple to make that there are surprisingly few instructions! First pre-heat your oven to 180oC<br />
-Using a large mixing bowl mix together the butter, caster sugar, and 2 tablespoons of almond oil<br />
-Gradually add the flour until you have a large ball of pastry with a doughy consistency<br />
-Roll out the biscuit pastry and cut out biscuit shapes with a cookie cutter (I used a simple round one)<br />
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are starting to turn very lightly brown.<br />
-Leave the biscuits to cool whilst making the icing: mix the icing sugar with the final tablespoon full of almond oil then add water until you have a thick paste consistency.<br />
-Now it's time to decorate! Obviously you can decorate these however you want, but I like this easy to execute snowflake design: I just drew it on using an icing pen.<br />
<br />
Mary Berry wouldn't be particularly impressed with my decorating skills, but this plateful of biscuits was so well received that it was munched down by my hubby in just one afternoon! Just three more sleeps to go until Christmas: I hope you all have a wonderful time!<br />
<br />
Love Tor<br />
<br />tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-21085878129341649772012-12-15T01:54:00.000-08:002013-01-18T01:54:29.381-08:00Christmas crafty Saturday: Make the giftwrap part of the presentHi guys,<br />
<i>I love getting crafty, and Christmas is the perfect time to exercise my love of all thing craft with a real purpose. So I thought that every Saturday during December I would share one of my seasonal crafts with you guys.</i><br />
<br />
In case you haven't noticed over previous years, I'm going to let you into a little secret. I really really love Christmas. Like I'm obsessed with Christmas! I love decorating our house, buying special presents for everyone I love, I even like writing Christmas cards - I know! I'm crazy! But another one of the things I love (and something I've gotten from my mum) is wrapping my presents, so that they look amazing and leave people excited to open them.<br />
<br />
Over the years I've decorated my presents with personalised keyrings, christmas tree ornaments, and candy canes. I've seen gorgeous presents that have been decorated with lollypops, cookie cutters, and even homemade jewellery. When you add something to the top of the present, however small, the wrapping becomes part of the gift.<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=christmasmice.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/christmasmice.jpg" /></a><br />
This year I'm decorating my presents with candy cane mice: felt mice which I'm made by hand and added candy canes to make their tails. You can find the Martha Stewart tutorial on <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/273608/candy-cane-mice">how to make the mice here</a>: note that I stitched mine together rather than using fabric glue recommended by Martha (who knew she was so lazy?!) and they looked much better for it.<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=mousepresent.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/mousepresent.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=mousepresent2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/mousepresent2.jpg" /></a><br />
For the wrapping paper I've opted for plain metallics or red: I always think if you're going to embellish then the embellishment shows up so much better against the background of plain paper. I also experimented a little with polka dots for that Cath Kidston feel. Other unusual wrapping paper options are to use brown parcel paper and even newspaper: both guaranteed to make your presents stand out when they're underneath the tree!<br />
<br />
How do you wrap your Christmas presents? Do you like to make the wrapping into something special, or do you prefer to spend more time on getting the right gift? I wonder if it's part of being a blogger than means I like literally everything I do (even giving a present) to be something that's aesthetically pleasing!<br />
<br />
Love Tor xxtor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-32567674000949473092012-12-12T01:57:00.000-08:002013-01-18T01:58:10.175-08:00Stylized Christmas home envy! Hi guys,<br />
I'm a bit of an interiors obsessive: I love checking out other people's home decor, and am forever drooling over interiors blogs (I like to call it house porn!) And if there's one time it's especially nice to see what creative ideas people have for their homes it's Christmas. It's not just interior blogs jumping on this band wagons either: the big department stores are hopping all over it too!<br />
<br />
I love checking out the photo shoots that the big department stores put out to promote their Christmas decorations and interior ranges. It used to be that preparing for Christmas meant putting up a Christmas tree. But now you can buy new Christmas throws and cushions, art work, kitchen utensils and even bedding. (Primark have some great Nordic reindeer-print bedding instore, and it's only £15) And I love it!<br />
<br />
Here's some decorating inspiration gleamed from the stores you'll find on every highstreet:<br />
<br />
<b>Marks and Spencer</b><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=mandschristmas.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/mandschristmas.jpg" /></a><br />
<b><a href="http://www.next.co.uk/">Next </a></b><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=nextchristmas.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/nextchristmas.jpg" /></a><br />
<b>House of Fraser</b><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=houseoffraserchristmas.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/houseoffraserchristmas.jpg" /></a><br />
How do you decorate your home for Christmas? Do you take interior inspiration from blogs and press images and go abit over the top (guilty as charged!) or do you think these things are going a bit too far?<br />
<br />
I'll be showing you how we decorate our house for Christmas later in the month. But in the meantime, I'd love to hear your thoughts!<br />
<br />
Love Tor xx<br />
<br />tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-70336443455970970322012-12-08T01:59:00.000-08:002013-01-18T01:59:43.900-08:00Christmas crafty Saturday: How to make Christmas stockings Hi guys,<br />
<i>I love getting crafty, and Christmas is the perfect time to exercise my love of all thing craft with a real purpose. So I thought that every Saturday during December I would share one of my seasonal crafts with you guys.</i><br />
<br />
I like to create my own little presents for people, as well as decorations for the house: this year, for the first time, I tried my hand at making a Christmas stocking. It turned out so well that I'm going to show you how I made it so that, if you're feeling so inclined, you can try your hand at making your own:<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=stocking5.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/stocking5.jpg" /></a><br />
I kept this really simple and used just two different cotton fabrics, cut out a felt letter, and then ribbons and buttons for the trim. But obviously the only limit to what you can make is your imagination: use velvet, add flowers, diamante, write your name on it with fabric paint. It really is up to you!<br />
<br />
<b>You will need:</b><br />
2 sheets A4 paper to cut the pattern<br />
1/2 meter patterned fabric<br />
1/2 meter plain coloured fabric<br />
Coordinating cotton<br />
Embellishments (I used felt, ribbon, and buttons)<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=stocking2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/stocking2.jpg" /></a><a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=stocking3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/stocking3.jpg" /></a><br />
1. Cut out a stocking template pattern onto your sheets of A4 paper: this will be the template you use to cut your fabric. I drew and redrew mine by hand until I had the shape I wanted.<br />
2. Cut the template 4 times; twice on each of your fabrics. Remember to turn the template around when doing the back panel of the patterned fabric, so the pattern will still show when the stocking is assembled.<br />
3. Place the fabric with the patttern to the inside and the lining to the outside and then stitch the four pieces of fabric together: I used a simple running stitch. If you want to create this even quicker, you could use a sewing machine. Turn inside out and voila: you have your very own simple-to-sew Christmas stocking!<br />
4. Embellish away to your hearts content! And don't forget that if you want to hang your stocking you'll need to add a ribbon loop to the corner.<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=stocking1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/stocking1.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=stocking4.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/stocking4.jpg" /></a>Obviously this one is entirely for my own satisfaction, as the baby will be far too young to appreciate Christmas or stockings. But he'll only get one first Christmas, and I intend to suck as much joy and fun out of it as possible!<br />
<br />
So what do you think? Do you think you'll have a go at making your own? If you do, I would LOVE to see how it turns out; email me a picture!<br />
<br />
Love Tor x<br />
<br />
<b>PS - Don't forget to enter my <a href="http://fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/the-great-big-fabfrocks-christmas.html">Christmas giveaway</a>: there is a great selection of little prizes to be won!! </b>tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-54820046113599495662012-12-02T02:01:00.000-08:002013-01-18T02:07:57.772-08:00Our house: All decorated for ChristmasHi guys,<br />
I love Christmas. Actually that's an understatement: I LOVE Christmas! So as soon as December 1st rolls around, I want my house decorated immediately. Because of course, why not maximise the amount of time you can spend looking at glittery decorations and twinkly lights, right? True to form, yesterday we built our grotto whilst listening to our specially crafted Christmas playlist. Here's how it looks:<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/christmasdecs3-1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/christmasdecs3-1.jpg" /></a><br />
-Nothing on my tree matches! It's a mish-mash of colours and styles: but that's because each bauble is special. My mum started it, buying my sisters and I special Christmas baubles to remember every year starting from when we were born. And now Mike and I pick up ornaments on our travels together: we have one to remind us of our wedding day, our honeymoon, even one that says "Our first Christmas together". I think it's a great tradition and makes putting up the tree even more special.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/christmasdecs1-1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/christmasdecs1-1.jpg" /></a><br />
- I love poinsettias: they're so festive, and cheap too! This one cost me just £2.50 from Asda. It has pride of place in our fireplace, and the great thing is (if I remember to water it!) it will last for the whole of December!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/christmasdecs2-1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/christmasdecs2-1.jpg" /></a><br />
- We picked up the nutcracker in Berlin last December. The 70s-style angel was a gift from my mum: something she and my dad have had since they got married. And it just wouldn't be Christmas without a plate full of candy canes to nibble on every time you walk past it!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/christmasdecs6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/christmasdecs6.jpg" /></a><br />
-Our non-traditional Christmas wreath. I saw one just like this in a fancy design shop, but it was soo expensive. Luckily, my mum is a craft monster and a genius with a glue gun: she managed to replicate it completely for me. I think it looks amazing!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/christmasdecs4-1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/christmasdecs4-1.jpg" /></a><br />
- This is our first year of having a proper fireplace for Christmas, and I love it! Our stockings are all hung up and ready in anticipation. Mike and I have Mickey and Minnie ones, brought in Florida. The baby has his own which I made myself: tutorial on how to make one to follow next weekend!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s785.beta.photobucket.com/user/fabfrocks/media/christmasdecs5-1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/christmasdecs5-1.jpg" /></a><br />
- Finally the focal point of any home at Christmas: the dining table. My centrepiece is an advent ring. The sweet cones are from Ikea: it's hard to fill them fast enough when Mike is around! We also have a full Christmas dinner service: you really can't avoid the fact that it's December in this house!<br />
<br />
Have you put your Christmas tree up yet? How do you like to decorate for Christmas?<br />
<br />
Love Tor x<br />
<br />tor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-89556076572323571622012-10-22T02:05:00.000-07:002013-01-18T02:05:47.724-08:00How to carve a pumpkin Hi guys,<br />
Pumpkin carving is something of an annual Halloween tradition in the Fabfrocks household: hubby and I carve a pumpkin each every year, and compete to see who can create the best design! But if you've never carved a pumpkin before it can be quite daunting. Which is why I've written this quick step by step tutorial (complete with pictures) so that you can create a scary Jack-o-lantern of your own!<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=pumpkin1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/pumpkin1.jpg" /></a><br />
1. You will need: We don't buy special pumpkin carving kits, we just use the tools we have in the kitchen. We use a sharp knife, a blunt normal eating knife, a spoon, and an ice cream scoop. You will also need a biro to draw your design template.<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=pumpkin2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/pumpkin2.jpg" /></a><br />
2. First you need to do your prep work. Take a sharp knife and remove the top of the pumpkin: traditionally this is done in the shape of a simple circle. I like to create a star shaped lid. Once you have removed the lid comes the boring bit: emptying the pumpkin! Remember that the more of the flesh you can remove, the longer your pumpkin will last. I use a spoon and an icecream scoop to remove as much of the flesh as possible.<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=pumpkin3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/pumpkin3.jpg" /></a><br />
3. Choose your design. Google images is a great source of inspiration for this! Once you know what you want your pumpkin to look like, take your biro and draw your design onto the front of your pumpkin: this will provide the template that you will cut out.<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=pumpkin4.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/pumpkin4.jpg" /></a><br />
4. Get cutting! Take the sharp knife and remove the skin and flesh from your design. I then use the blunt knife to smooth the edges as much as possible: I find it much easier to control and stick to the design that way.<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=pumpkin5.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/pumpkin5.jpg" /></a><br />
5. Insert your candle, light you're pumpkin, and put it in your living room window so that it can frighten all the children on your street....Mwah hah hah!!! It really is that easy!<br />
<br />
Have you carved a pumpkin for this Halloween? What design did you go for? I'd love to see your pumpkin pictures!<br />
<br />
Love Tor xxtor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-10165367532771722602012-09-24T02:07:00.000-07:002013-01-18T02:11:31.080-08:00Our house: The circus themed nurseryHi guys,<br />
We have been living in our new house for almost four months, and slowly but surely, it is starting to look like a home I am proud to live in. Last month I showed you the final version of <a href="http://fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/fabfrocks-at-home-my-walk-in-wardrobe.html">my walk-in wardrobe</a>. This month, we have finally (very nearly!) finished the baby's nursery. So here's the tour:<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=nursery1_zpsf133191f.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/nursery1_zpsf133191f.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=nursery2_zpsb7084761.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/nursery2_zpsb7084761.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=nursery3_zps7cb3cbe4.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/nursery3_zps7cb3cbe4.jpg" /></a><br />
The shelving unit, cot, and wardrobe are all from good ol' Ikea. We changed the knobs on the wardrobe door to make it look a little more unique. The red double sofa bed was already a spare room feature, but we decided to keep it as a big comfy seat to watch him sleep/play/whatever, and as a spare bed for overnight visitors: we only have a 2 bedroom house, so it's important to maximise space.<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=nursery4_zps1b4c8dd0.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/nursery4_zps1b4c8dd0.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=nursery7_zpseea81fa3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/nursery7_zpseea81fa3.jpg" /></a><br />
The vintage circus posters (which <a href="http://fabfrocks.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/fabfrocks-at-home-visit-creepy-circus.html">we talked about here</a>) are all from eBay. The cushions on the sofa are from Cath Kidston, Etsy, and Little Joules. Cath Kidston does a vintage circus print fabric that I absolutely fell in love with. So I made some bunting using it, and then enlisted my much craftier mum to make all the other soft furnishings in the room using the fabric: She made the cotton bags hanging from the wardrobe doors, the huge sofa throw, and the quilt on the end of the baby's cot. She even used the circus print fabric to trim his little towels: now that's attention to detail!<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=nursery6_zps3fd87c7c.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/nursery6_zps3fd87c7c.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=nursery5_zpsa92e5842.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/nursery5_zpsa92e5842.jpg" /></a><br />
The glass balloons hanging in the window are from Murano; the glass island off Venice. We picked them up when we were there last month and my dad made the frame so we could hang them. The giant elephant seat is another Ikea purchase and he already has more bears, books and toys than any little boy needs: and he isn't even born yet! With that and his fancy wardrobe full of clothes, I think it's fair to say we've gone a little over the top.<br />
<br />
All we have left to do is buy a light fitting (we're finding it really hard to choose!) and make the curtains. I've bought the fabric: red and white striped, like a big top. I just have to get my sewing machine out, sit down, and actually make them!<br />
<br />
Love Tor xxtor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8063654676247361555.post-35312385318400283602012-09-01T02:08:00.000-07:002013-01-18T02:09:40.942-08:00Our house: My walk-in wardrobe Hi guys,<br />
It has always been a fantasy of mine to have a walk-in wardrobe. A room where I could keep all of my clothes and accessories, plan outfits, a relaxing fashion space that was just for me. So when we moved into a house that had a box room which could only be accessed from the main bedroom my first thought wasn't the same as everyone elses ("nursery!"). No: my first thought was '"wardrobe!" I promptly gave my husband full reign of the built-in wardrobe in the bedroom, and my mission for this weekend was to a) finally unpack all my clothes (it's only been 3 months!) and b) set about creating my dream.<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=wardrobe1-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/wardrobe1-2.jpg" /></a><br />
The main thing was that I wanted to turn the room, effectively a blank canvas, into a wardrobe on a tight budget. So I utilized the big wardrobe, chest of drawers, and dressing table that we already had from our old flat. I then brought an £8.99 hanging mirror from <i>The Range </i>which I've hung over my wardrobe door, storage boxes from John Lewis for my handbags (£9 each) and from Asda for my make up and jewellery (£4 each).<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=wardrobe3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/wardrobe3.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=wardrobe4.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/wardrobe4.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=wardrobe5.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/wardrobe5.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=wardrobe7.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/wardrobe7.jpg" /></a><br />
Finally I wanted a clever storage solution for all my shoes, in a way that I could see them and the pairs I wear most often could be on display. And a comfy chair, so that I could view my domain for hours without hurting my back. So we hit some second hand furniture stores and picked up some shelves for the shoes for £20. Sadly I couldn't find an armchair I liked, but the hunt is still on!<br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=wardrobe2-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/wardrobe2-2.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://s785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/?action=view&current=wardrobe6.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i785.photobucket.com/albums/yy131/fabfrocks/wardrobe6.jpg" /></a><br />
The plan was that turning this space into a workable dressing room shouldn't cost more than £100: I managed to achieve my goal and have only spent £65 so far, including the hooks and trinket boxes and other bits and pieces I picked up. That means I have £35 left to find that elusive armchair. Pretty impressive, even if I do say so myself, and not bad for a weekend's work!!<br />
<br />
Now I will admit this isn't quite the walk in I always dreamed of. What I would really like is an open floor to ceiling wardrobe across one whole wall, so that all of my clothes were always on display. But as we're renting this place, fitting something that big to the walls just isn't feasible. And so, for now, this is my version of the dream! I'm really looking forward to getting dressed tomorrow morning....<br />
<br />
Love Tor xtor (fabfrocks)http://www.blogger.com/profile/16174959372139162054noreply@blogger.com0