August 2016 – Page 3 – user's Blog!

August 6, 2016

How to Master the Art of Patched Denim

We’re sure you’ve noticed grown women reliving their punk rock high school days in the form of a patched denim jacket or vest and we’re here to say we officially love it. Why? Any fashion trend that is built around customization is key for creating a look that is “in” but still entirely you. Not to mention, denim vests are a great tool for dressing down evening wear for a daring daytime style, like this metallic dress/vest combo:

Want to try your hand at the patched denim trend but feeling intimidated? Let us walk you through the experience of planning, shopping, assembling and styling your very own patched jean jacket or vest while getting some Cash Back at Ebates. We’ll help you find the iron-on denim patches that tout your personality to a T and offer a few handy tips from first-hand experience.

To sleeve or not to sleeve? This may seem like a simple decision but here are a few questions to ask yourself when shopping for what will be the canvas to your wearable masterpiece.

What do you own that can be layered with a vest?
Which piece would you get more mileage out of?
Is your patched denim vest or jacket something you would like to wear regularly or only occasionally?
Would a dark wash or light wash coordinate more with your current wardrobe?

Once you have selected cut and color, now it’s time to dive into the infinite world of patched and pins!

This step can seem overwhelming but trust us, it’s too fun to be stressful. Here are three simple tips to remember when shopping around.

Pick your centerpiece or large patches first. Whether you have one big back piece or a few larger patches, select them first so you can get an idea of how much space your will have left for smaller pieces like enamel pins.
Choose a tone. Will most of your pieces be sweet, sassy or edgy? You can definitely mix it up but it helps to have a general theme in mind.
Pick your top five favorite things in the world. It could be pizza, Parks and Rec or Paris. It doesn’t matter. You can find a patch or pin to represent it.

Our Favorite Patch and Pin Stores on Etsy!

Strawberry Moth
That’s Sew Bethany
Wildflower + Co.
Sarah Duyer
For the Love of Patch
Buried Diamond
Lizmiera
Heartificial
Anchor and Stitch

You’ve got the outwear and the hardware. Now it’s time to patch. We recommend throwing a little party with a friend or two to make a couple of hours with the ironing board a little less tedious. We say hours because:

Not all patches are created equal. Some take longer to iron. Make sure to use the highest temp with full steam unless instructions for each patch note otherwise.
Ironing blind is hard. It is recommended for most patches that you not iron the front of the patch. That means you have to lay it upside down them place the jacket on top of it. If you have a glass table you can climb under, that really helps to see that the placement is correct before ironing.
Touch ups may be required. You can iron to the best of your ability and a patch could stubbornly refuse to fuse. Avoid the urge to rip your hair out by purchasing some Liquid Stitch from Joann beforehand. It really is a lifesaver when patched go rogue.

Your labor of love is officially done and now it’s time to strut. Let those colorful patches catch eyes from across the sidewalk by wearing neutrals underneath. And never, NEVER wear them with blue denim bottoms, regardless of wash. You remember that infamous Brittany and Justin look, right?

We get it. You’re a busy girl and you would much rather dish out a little extra money than get your hands dirty. Luckily, a lot of patched denim pieces are pretty reasonable and all of these come with Cash Back! It may not be your own hand-made baby but you can still give it a good home.

August 5, 2016

Home Office Ideas to Create an Inspiring Workspace

When working from home, the most important thing is to create a dedicated space that helps keep you focused and efficient. Your home office should be customized to you and the work you need to get done, even if your work attire is your favorite pair of jammies. To help inspire you in your quest for home office perfection, we’ve gathered together some of the most unique and useful home office ideas from around the web. And to inspire your wallet to stay fat and happy, when you shop these featured products you can find incredible deals, free shipping offers and earn Cash Back at Ebates. So get your home office ideas promo code ready and let’s get down to business.

Brooklyn Mighty Bright Desk Lamp

Targeted task lighting is important in any office, especially one where space is at a premium. This Spark Design Award-winning lamp from LAMPS PLUS puts out an incredible 450 dimmable lumens and also includes two USB ports to charge your digital desk accessories.

Mekong Hanging Lamp

Overhead light is important too because it sets the mood of a room. If your office needs natural beauty and refined texture, this polished and netted bamboo lamp is just what you need. And because it’s made from sustainable materials, it will make you look bright and smart.

Perch Magnetic Wall Storage Collection

Increase your efficiency by making the most of your available storage space to keep your office supplies close at hand. Take advantage of vertical storage with the desk organizer system designed to keep your surfaces clear and keep walls free from damage.

Bigso Prism Stockholm Office Storage Boxes

These durable storage boxes are made from recycled materials and feature bold, colorful designs you won’t want to hide in a closet. Although they might just hold tax records, each box looks like a pretty gift and will bring color and sophistication to your desk decorations.

Scroll Dry Erase Calendar Wall Decal

Digital calendars are popular, but nothing beats being able to easily look over your whole month at once. This oversized calendar from RoomMates Decor is moveable, reusable and a great way to keep track of your home, work and personal schedules all at once.

Elephant File Organizer

You won’t find this clever and helpful elephant in just any corporate office. This unique fella is strong, made from steel and can hold books, files, papers and more. Plus, like the best modern desk accessories, it’s cute, too!

Chevron Cork Board

The bulletin board is an office classic, and a funky chevron print gives this one a fun, modern update. It can fit anything from photos to business cards to blueprints. It’s also ideal to use as an inspiration board to collect images and items that inspire you at work.

Starburst Modern Wall Clock

Although working from home can mean you don’t have to watch the clock, that doesn’t mean you should lose track of time. This mid-century modern wall clock from Euro Style Lighting is bold but subtle and would complement all kinds of home décor ideas.

Reclaimed Wood Living Wall

Bring life into your home office with a new twist on the old-fashioned office fern. This stunning wall garden is made from recycled materials for easy-care succulent plants and is an elegant piece of home office furniture.

Flocked Floral Wallpaper

When you work from home, your office is automatically the best office in the building. Bring the swank of an executive suite to your home base with this luxurious flocked wallpaper that will make you feel like chair of the board.

Printable Wall Art

You can download and print this inspirational poster at home and hang it yourself. Now that sounds like something your future self would appreciate.

Golden Gate Bridge Wall Print

When you work at home, it’s up to you to keep yourself motivated. Make sure to have at least one thing in your office that inspires you to greatness.

August 4, 2016

Planning a Bachelor Party that Won’t Break the Bank

If Hollywood were to be believed, nearly every soon-to-be groom would find their bachelor party to be a smorgasbord of expensive and often risque indulgences. But not to worry if you and your groomsmen have a bank balance with fewer digits than these fictional bachelors of lore. All you really need to host a killer bachelor party is good friends and a little creativity. Ebates makes it easy to snag some thrifty deals on party essentials. Using Ebates Cash Back and exclusive promo codes, you can be sure you and your groomsmen will have a guys’ night out that is truly legendary, without breaking the bank. Read on for some awesome and budget-friendly bachelor party ideas.

Go Camping

So you want to get away, spend a weekend with the boys and have a carefree adventure. If your budget can’t quite carry the weight of a five-person flight to Las Vegas, there’s no reason you can’t still have a truly stellar getaway. You and the guys have always talked about trekking out to that cool campsite a few miles outside of town, hunkering down and enjoying the wide open air, free to do as you please without the constraints of civilization. Backcountry.com has some sweet deals if you need to snag a few outdoor essentials before heading out. Pack some brews and some hot dogs and head out for an inexpensive mini-vacation that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on your wedding day and the adventure that is life as a newlywed.

Guys’ Night In

What better location to celebrate one last night of bachelorhood than the old bachelor pad? Order some pizzas and pick up some 12-packs. Have the groomsmen pitch in for a couple of bottles of middle-shelf liquor and some mixers, or designate each of the guys to bring a snack or beverage to share. Chill out with some Netflix or DVDs, or fire up the Playstation and enjoy a few rounds of your favorite games. Chill out, reminisce, and say goodbye to the digs of singledom in a way befitting of all the awesome times you’ve shared there.

Karaoke

Karaoke and parties go together like rum and coke. And speaking of the latter, libations are best served plentifully if you go this route, especially if the groom is a bit more reserved. Help him let loose by getting him just short of smashed with some pre-game drinks before hailing an Uber to the nearest karaoke bar. Not only is it a ton of fun, it usually makes for some funny memories all of you can reflect on fondly and laugh about for years to come. Bonus points if you snag a video of the groom belting out some ‘80s hair metal.

Barbecue

This option is one of the cheapest and simplest. All you need is a backyard and a grill. Blast some tunes, fill up the cooler with some ice cold brews, and show off your skills as a grillmaster by cooking up some delicious eats and an equally good time. Pick up some dogs, burgers, and buns at the local Safeway and lay out an assortment of self-serve condiments for a casual celebration. Set up some backyard badminton or volleyball for a little extra fun.

Game Night

So you and your guys don’t quite have enough extra dough laying around to risk blowing a few hundred in a serious high-stakes poker game. That doesn’t mean you can’t replicate the experience on a more wallet-friendly level. Head to the casino and play some penny slots — they’re not just fun for old-timers — or set up your own table at a groomsman’s place. You can go with a classic like poker or pick a few of the groom’s favorite card or board games. Order some deliciously greasy takeout, procure some cigars, and serve up some whiskey sours and White Russians. Remember, if you’re playing for money, pitch in for the groom’s share.

Sports

With tasty wings, beer by the pitcher, and big screen TVs, sports bars are practically designed with male bonding in mind. And what better way to solidify your friendship than by sharing in the excitement of cheering on a favorite sports team? Head down to your favorite local haunt and take in the big game for a cheap night out with built-in entertainment.

Paintball or Laser Tag

Looking for a game day that’s a little more physical? Don your war paint and head to your local paintball range or laser tag facility for an action-filled time that will be sure to get your heart pumping. Take advantage of group rates and Groupons to save a few dollars. You can spend your savings on some celebratory brews at the pub afterward.

August 3, 2016

Where to Score All Your Team USA Apparel With Cash Back

With the 2016 summer Olympic Games right around the corner, soon athletes from all over the world will be traveling to sunny Rio de Janerio to compete. The best athletes in America will be there, wearing official Olympic Team USA apparel professionally designed to enhance their performance. But you don’t have to be a world-class athlete to find Olympic-level performance gear when you shop our top Team USA gear shops. These retailers give you access to the best fitness wear and Team USA Olympics apparel. Shop for USA shirts, pants, shoes and save with a fitness gear promo code. Equip yourself for your unique athletic goals while showing your patriotism and earn Cash Back at Ebates when you buy from these USA gear shops.

Macy’s

Macy’s department stores are as American as apple pie and their Team USA Collection is full of classic, timeless styles. Shop the Polo Ralph Lauren collection with a Team USA promo code and save on clothes from an official outfitter of the 2016 U.S. Olympic teams.

Savings Tips:
• Save up to 70% with Clearance and Sale items. You’ll find everything from Team USA Sports Caps to Ceremony T-Shirts on sale.
• Shop Super Weekend Sales to save up to 20% on the latest USA apparel. Find even more special offers in the Deals & Promotions section, like Buy One, Get One Free offers and free gifts with select purchases.
• Save 15% when you subscribe to Macy’s email list. Be sure to sign up for Macy’s My Wallet as well to gain access to exclusive deals and offers and an app that helps you save when you shop.

Nike

Nike’s sportswear, apparel and equipment is designed by experts and used by pros, including many Olympians. Show your Team USA pride during the summer games with officially licensed Team USA gear for the whole family.

Savings Tips:
• Get incredible savings of up to 50% on gear for men, women and kids in Nike’s Clearance section.
• Create a NIKE+ account to get free shipping on the Nike Summer of Sport collection.

Old Navy

Old Navy is a top Team USA shop with hundreds of Team USA t shirts that let you be a part of the 2016 Olympics. Show American pride and Rio style with Team USA shirts for the whole family.

Savings Tips:
• Save up to 40% during flash sales and pick up the Olympic apparel you love for less.
• Get 30% off your purchase with email signup and receive special offers for even more savings.
• Get 15% off your first purchase with an Old Navy Visa card and earn points and rewards redeemable at any Gap Inc. store.

FansEdge

FansEdge is your source for everything Olympics. The merchandise at FansEdge celebrates the Olympic tradition of friendly competition and patriotism with gear for every sport in both the summer and winter games.

Savings Tips:
• Save up to 25% on USA Olympics apparel when you shop the Sale section.
• Sign up for ShopRunner for free 2-day shipping offers and free returns as well as updates on sales, new items and more. You can try this service for free before spending $75 on a 1-year membership, but if you have an American Express card, you can get a membership for free!

Fanatics

Fanatics is the ultimate sports apparel and fan gear store. Support Team USA with official USA Olympics Merchandise including hats, sweatshirts and t shirts. Go the extra mile with Team USA auto accessories, collectibles, pajamas and even party supplies.

Savings Tips:
• Equip the whole team or the whole family at once and enjoy a volume discount starting at 10% for orders over $1,000 or including 50+ items.
• Earn 5% FanCash with a free Fanatics Rewards membership. You’ll get exclusive offers and early access to collections as well as a Low Price Guarantee.

Etsy

With handmade and vintage goods from artists and crafters from all over the world, Etsy is the place to find incredible and unique items that help you show your summer Olympics spirit.

Savings Tip:
• Get up to 40% off Olympic collectibles when you search for sale items on Etsy. Water bottles, commemorative sets, pins and more can all be found on sale.

CafePress

CafePress allows you to design and create the perfect USA gear for you. Upload and edit your own designs and get custom printed totes, mugs, ribbons and even flags!

Savings Tips:
• Save up to 25% on USA shirts, Olympic greeting cards and more when you shop sale items.
• Sign up for the CafePress email list to get exclusive offers and an instant 25% off promo code.

August 2, 2016

8 Unusual Coloring Books for Adults Who Need to Chill

Of all the de-stressing techniques out there — from massage to yoga — coloring is definitely the cheapest and easiest. Anyone can pick up crayons or colored pencils and let their imagination take over. And what better time to do it than today on National Coloring Book Day?

We know you’ve seen your fair share of mesmerizing mandalas, blooming bouquets and cute cats in coloring-book form. So we’ve rounded up a few options that are a little outside the box for all you pop-culture junkies and appreciators of absurd humor. Treat yourself to some of these unusual coloring books with Cash Back at Ebates. Warning: Some of these are not appropriate for kids. But you weren’t going to share anyway, right?

Vogue Colors A to Z: A Fashion Coloring Book

After a long day of screaming kids or boring meetings, you can pretend you are a world-famous fashion designer sketching away on your Parisian balcony with this super chic Vogue coloring book.

The Official “Game of Thrones” Coloring Book

Go medieval with your me-time. This intricate “Game of Thrones” coloring book from Michaels will help you create fan art in less time than it takes to binge-watch a season.

Swear Word Coloring Book

Color some choice words and phrases instead of screaming them into a pillow or inside your car during rush hour. Trust us: It feels better and reduces frown lines.

Dinosaurs With Jobs

Remember when you were obsessed with dinosaurs? And that was when you only saw them walking around in books or eating people in movies. Now you get to see them face the everyday obstacles you know all too well in this coloring book available at The Book Depository.

Bun B’s Rap Coloring and Activity Book

Coloring is great and all, but what about paper dolls? And what about rap-star paper dolls? Fill in the lines and play dress-up with some of the baddest hip-hop artists, including (but not limited to) Queen Latifah, Drake, Wiz Khalifa, Childish Gambino and Questlove.

Lonely Planet Ultimate Travel Coloring Book

You may not have the time or the funds to travel the world, but you can see some of your favorites in non-living color.

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Happy Snacks Coloring Book

Stress eating: The struggle is real. Quash those pesky snacking habits by coloring cute versions of your favorite junk foods.

Unicorns Are Jerks

We hate to disappoint you, but unicorns aren’t all majestic and sweet, as demonstrated in this coloring book from BooksAMillion. But at the end of a long, hard day that has brought out some of your choice character defects, isn’t it kind of a relief that they aren’t perfect either?