diy – Page 4 – user's Blog!

April 27, 2015

5 DIY Mother’s Day Gifts She’ll Love

Remember the good old days when you went to school and crafted DIY Mother’s Day gifts with your tiny hands that made her lose her mind because they were way too cute? Who says we can’t do that just because we’re all grown up? Whether you feel like creating personalized handmade gifts for your own mom or helping your little ones up their gift game this Mother’s Day, here are five super easy DIY gifts for mom anyone can make no matter what your artistry level may be.

Mason Jar Picture Frame

mason_jar_frame — via Home Stories A to Z

Ditch the fancy crystal vase she probably already has and give her something with a little more heart. Mom loves pictures of her kids (or grandkids) at any age and this darling mason jar picture frame is a creative way to display her favorite photo.

Mini Polaroid Magnets

Another way to use family photos for your DIY gifts is this fun batch of mini photo magnets. Use this handy little template to print out your photos and glue them onto mounting board to create a practical gift she can use every day!

Homemade Bath Bombs

A luxurious bath with a bomb of essential oils will leave mom feeling invigorated and renewed after a long day of saving the world (like she does every day). Plus, these bath bombs are completely customizable so you can make bombs in her favorite scents and colors.

Handmade Terrariums

Terrariums4 — via Saved By Love Creations

Put a spin on traditional flowers and make mom something that will actually last with minimal upkeep. These gorgeous terrariums take less than an hour to make and will bring a little bit of the garden indoors to spruce her living space and make her smile.

Footprint Step Stool

Perfect for the mom of little kids (or grandma), this small piece of practical furniture is like a memory frozen in time. Mom will be reminded of the pitter patter of little feet for years to come.

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips!

April 16, 2015

Gardening Tips for Beginners

Spring is the time of new beginnings. And if you’re thinking of taking advantage of the new season by spending time in your yard and starting a garden, we have a few tips for you. Make sure to check out all the stores that have Double Cash Back during Home and Garden Week over at Ebates! You’ll find some great deals on all the gardening tools you need a stores like Home Depot, Sears, and Walmart.

1. Plan
The first step may seem obvious but it is important! Plan what you want. Do you want a flower garden, vegetable garden or herb garden? Keep in mind that it is better to start small. You can always add more once your garden starts to be successful.

2. Choose a place to plant
Do you have a sunny or shady space to plant? This can be a deciding factor on what to plant as most vegetables and some flowers require about six hours of sun each day. So if you don’t have a lot of sun, look for plants that can tolerate the shade. Make sure that you plant your garden where you can’t ignore it. If your garden starts to need attention, you’ll notice it faster than if you put it in an area you rarely see daily.

3. Prepare the ground
Get rid of the sod that is covering the area you want to plant and spread compost to improve the soil. Using an organic material will boost your soil. Using compost, dry grass clippings, decayed leaves, or old manure will improve the soil and make a perfect starting point for your garden.

4. Decide on your plants
Now that you’ve picked your area and what type of garden you want to have, you’ll want to pick what you want to plant. Some plants are harder to grow and maintain than others, so we suggest these easy-to-grow plants for beginners. If you’re planning to plant flowers, try out marigolds, geraniums, pansies, or daylilies. If you’re planning to plant vegetables, go for peppers, tomatoes, lettuce, and cucumbers.

5. Put them in the ground
Learn about which plant you’ve chosen and when the best time to plant them is. Some plants and vegetables are picky about the cold and you will want to wait until all frost has passed. Some plants will fare better planted in autumn or late winter. Some plants, such as lettuce and sunflowers, are easy to grow from seeds. But you may find that it is easier for some flowers to buy a set plant or transplant and just pop it in the ground and grow from there.

6. Water your plants
You’ll want to water your seedlings daily, as they should never dry out. As they grow, you can taper this off. The new transplants will need watering every other day until their roots become established into the ground. After the initial process, watering depends on the humidity of your climate, soil, and how often it rains. If you see that your plants are starting to wilt, they are in need of water. Slowly water so that it is absorbed and does not run off.

7. Keep it up
You’ve started your garden! Keep in mind that the garden will take work. You need to water when needed and pull weeds before they grow large and overtake your garden. In the end, just stop and smell the roses. Or whatever you choose to plant!

Do you enjoy gardening? Are you planning to start one this year? Let us know by leaving a comment!

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

April 2, 2015

8 Eggstraordinary Easter Egg Decorating Ideas

With Easter just around the corner, many of us are gearing up to do some easter egg decorating. Eggs have been dyed in the traditional spring pastel colors for years, so why not get a bit more creative this year? Glitter, washi tape, and metallic markers have changed the way we decorate eggs. With so many amazing designs, you’ll want to decorate more than the usual dozen! We’ve chosen eight of our favorite designs for you to try, but there are hundreds of creative ways to decorate. On to the eggscellent decorations! (Bad pun – but we had to!)

Chalkboard paint is such a fun and creative way to spice up a wall, furniture, fall pumpkin and, now, eggs! The DIY gurus over at Shelterness show how to make these delightful eggs that can be redecorated over and over again.

If you want to keep decorating simple but allow for creativity, mom.me shows how easy it is to decorate eggs with permanent markers. The best part is there is little mess and even less clean up!

Do you love lace? Then these lace patterned eggs from DIY Til We Die will have you excited to break out the vinegar. You can use lace strips or completely cover the egg in lace for different effects.

The washi tape craze is still going and egg decorating has not been left out! Lovely Indeed explains just how easy it is to grab some tape and scissors and make fabulously festive egg decorations.

If you are planning on using eggs only for decoration, these sprinkle eggs from Studio DIY might be perfect for you. While they may look delicious, you definitely don’t want to snack on these eggs!

Marble patterns are so pretty and the creative geniuses at Camille Styles show us how to use nail polish to achieve the perfect marbleized eggs. It’s amazing to see just how differently each egg turns out!

Is there anything that you can’t decorate with glitter? Maybe, but eggs aren’t one of them! Girl. Inspired. shows off the multiple ways to decorate eggs with a little sparkle (or a lot!)

While there isn’t a goose that lays golden eggs, you can add a touch of gold to your eggs this year with this how-to from Freutcake! Gold leaf looks amazing over both bright and pastel colors.

With all these amazing tutorials, there is no eggscuse to not decorate eggs this year. (Once we start, we can’t stop!) Let us know in a comment below how you plan on decorating your easter eggs this year!

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

March 31, 2015

Spring Hairstyles Anyone Can Try

Spring is a time of renewal. Whether you want to spruce up your space or breathe new life into your look, now is the moment. And if you’re looking to reinvent yourself on the outside, why not start at the top with a new ‘do? Here are nine on-trend spring hairstyles for each hair length and any occasion.

Short Hairstyles

The Shaggy Pixie: Closely cropped at the sides with fringe bangs. It’s a bold cut that brings out serious cheek bones.

Long Pixie with Side-Swept Bangs: If you’re weary of taking away all the hair around your face but still want to try a sassy short cut, this is the perfect compromise. Princess in the front, punk rocker in the back.

Rita Ora’s A-Line: Talk about attitude. This super cool coif goes to show the possibilities for simple A-Line bob haircuts. It’s all in the styling.

Medium Hairstyles

The Straight Long Bob: Lauren Conrad is throwing it back to the 90s with straight, volumized hair and a deep side part. This “lob” is on fire.

The Wavy A-Line: This medium-length A-Line bob features soft, beachy waves. Some people literally wake up like this and go about their day. Some people are lucky.

Taylor Swift’s Shag: Swifty’s brushed-out curls and rounded bangs are perfect for angular face-shapes or anyone who loves a little nod to the 70s.

Long Hairstyles

The Side Braid: This perfectly imperfect side braid is great for festivals or your everyday boho looks and is way less complicated than it looks. Check out this handy tutorial here.

Ponytail with a Twist: There are many ways to revamp your ponytail but this is one of our favorites. It’s super simple yet instantly elevates your casual looks. Click here to learn how.

The Braided Faux Hawk: Inject a little punk rock attitude into your weekend looks with this ultra-modern updo. Learn how to master this braid here.

Which of these hairstyles will you add to your beauty routine? Tell us with a comment below!

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips! Follow Ebates on Facebook, Twitter and Google+!

Get $50 by Inviting 2 Friends!

March 12, 2015

12 Money-Saving Healthy Kids’ Snacks

When it comes to keeping little tummies full, healthy ingredients and a steep grocery bill are always top concerns. Quickness and convenience are also key when it comes to snacking with a busy schedule.

But making your kids’ snacks can be affordable, healthy and even easy when you make large batches that will last you the whole week. Plus, some of these healthy snack recipes are kid-chef friendly and easy to make with some little helping hands. Check out these 12 money-saving healthy kids’ snacks your brood will go bananas over.

1. No-Bake Granola Bites
These sugar- and flour-free bites are better than cookies, and they make for a quick breakfast or after-lunch snack on the go.

2. Sesame-Ginger Roasted Chickpeas
Younger kids can be a little finicky about eating meat, which is why beans are a vital source of the protein, iron and fiber all kids need. These mouthwatering roasted chickpeas are the perfect substitute for fatty potato chips or buttery crackers.

sesame_ginger_chickpeas — via Honk If You’re Vegan

3. Baked Apple Chips
These simple apple chips will be an instant hit if your kids want a nice crunch or something sweet. Bake up big batches and bag them for later — your kids will always want more.

4. Cheesy Broccoli Bites
Adding cheese to veggies is a classic trick for getting kids to eat their greens, but these are just ridiculously delicious.

cheesy_brocoli_bites — via Super Healthy Kids

5. Black Bean Brownies
Beans are magical little bits of healthiness, and these delectable brownies are as simple as they are scrumptious.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

6. Spicy Kale Chips
Ditch the Lay’s and get your kids to love munching on these crunchy greens with a little kick.

7. Grape Poppers
On those rare occasions you want to give your kids a sugary treat, these candy-coated poppers can still be an opportunity to give them their daily serving of fruit. You can also swap the sprinkles for chopped nuts!

8. Banana-Zucchini Muffins
Hiding a fruit and a vegetable in a sweet little muffin? Who are you, Houdini?

banana_zuchini_muffins — via Yummy Healthy Easy

9. Ham and Cheese on a Stick
No baking or cooking required for these delicious afternoon hors d’oeuvres. A little imagination always makes eating fun for kids.

10. Fruit Juice Jell-O Squares
Make a classic treat wholesome with real fruit juice. The kids can even help you make this sweet snack.

11. Parmesan Baked Zucchini Fries
Just a light sprinkling of oil, salt and Parmesan cheese and these babies are ready to bake and be devoured by the entire family.

12. Fruity Frozen Yogurt Bites
All you need is your favorite yogurt, some berries and silicone cake cuffs to create a frozen treat perfect for hot days.

Let us know in the comments which of these recipes your kids would gobble up!

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips! Follow Ebates on Facebook, Twitter and Google+!

Get $50 by Inviting 2 Friends!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

February 5, 2015

DIY Valentine’s For Kids

Parents, first let us congratulate you on the extra time you happened to stumble upon in order to put any extra thought into your kids’ valentines cards this year. Doing anything other than picking up a box of punch-cut Charlie Brown cards (because Charlie Brown is still totally cool, right?) legitimately makes you a superhero. Let us help you in your quest to make Valentine’s Day too cool for school with these seven super-cute handmade gift ideas.

You Color My World
If you have more than a few broken crayons laying around the house, this Valentine craft is perfect for you. By melting up broken crayons in a heart-shaped silicon mold, you’ve created a colorful gift any child would love. Learn how to make these Heart Shaped Crayons from Cherished Bliss.

“Doh” You Want To Be My Valentine?
These Play-Doh Valentine’s from Random Thoughts of a SUPERMOM are a great alternative to chocolate or candy. Another alternative is to make your own Play-Doh with your child and put them into plastic containers. Feel free to add sparkles!

May The Force Be With You On Valentine’s Day
Let your tiny Jedi be the talk of the classroom with this Star Wars Valentine from Brassy Apple. Add a glowstick to this simple Valentine’s card and it’s now transformed into a glowing lightsaber.

Our Class Would Knot Be The Same Without You
If your child loves to make friendship bracelets (or you don’t mind helping them learn), this DIY craft is unique and special. Friendship Bracelet Valentines from Dandee Designs is a bit more time-consuming than the other crafts, but definitely will be a hit among the classroom.

Follow The Trail To My Heart
If your child is allowed to bring snacks for Valentine’s Day, opt for this yummy and healthy trail mix! A Spicy Perspective has ideas on how to perfectly make the Homemade Trail Mix Valentine Snack, complete with cute bird!

Be Mine Craft-y
Kids love Minecraft, that is a fact. So these adorable Minecraft Valentines from Lolly Jane are perfect for boys who complain about how “girly” Valentine gifts are. If that’s too much work, fill the bag with bricks and instructions with how to DIY their own.

You Blow My Mind
To finish off the list, we’ve taken a cue from wedding receptions and love the idea of bubbles. Bubble Valentines from Pretty Prudent are super easy to whip up. Best of all, these bubbles don’t make a mess!

Which of these DIY Valentine’s are perfect this year for your kids? Comment below!

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips! Follow Ebates on Facebook and Twitter!

Get $50 by Inviting 2 Friends!

January 22, 2015

Super Bowl Fun For Football Non-Fans

Not down with football, like not even a little bit? You don’t have to get left out of all the fun and festivities of a Super Bowl party. Create your own gathering of like-minded football unenthusiasts with these Super Bowl Sunday activities that are sure to induce some serious LOLs and good times all around.

Dress The Part

Think of Super Bowl Sunday as Halloween 2.0. Paint your face all Braveheart style, slap on some eye black stickers (seen here), and grab that megaphone. Maybe you can even have a contest for the best obnoxious football fan costume? Winner takes ALL the dip.

Super Bowl Cook-Off

Speaking of dip, we’re thinking this mind-blowing bacon beer dip would be a surefire winner in a good, old fashioned cook-off! Invite your pals to bring their prized homemade snacks and dishes and see which one scores touchdown. (The Beeroness)

Super Bowl Commercial Bingo

Besides the half time show, commercials are another part of the Super Bowl that football non-fans can look forward to. Turn this viewing party into a fun bingo game with these pre-printed cards. (Style Me Pretty)

Rate That Commercial

Another option is to simply rate the commercials with these cute printed signs! All you need are some popsicle sticks, tape, and a few judgmental friends. (Studio DIY)

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips! Follow Ebates on Facebook and Twitter!

Get $50 by Inviting 2 Friends!

January 21, 2015

Snappy Super Bowl Party Décor

Super Bowl Sunday is right around the corner and it’s time to kick off your party planning. Gear up for the big game with some of these creative Super Bowl décor ideas to delight your die-hard guests. They might even look up from their heaping plate of snacks and take their eyes off the TV long enough to give you an actual compliment.

DIY Football Field Snack Table

Your guests will go long for this super-cool snack table made with green felt, white duct tape, and vinyl number decals. They’ll never look at chips and dip the same way again. (A Night Owl)

Penalty Flag Napkins

Your guests will surely not cry foul at these bright yellow napkins playfully displayed as penalty flags. A simple tin bucket and a printed label is all you need for this handy little accent. (Hostess With The Mostess)

Sideline Drink Station

Give your shindig a little vintage touch with this sideline-style drink station. Just grab a simple water cooler and metal buckets to keep your beverages on ice. (Evite)

Decorative Football Paper Chain

Wall treatments aren’t just for fancy parties. Super easy and fun to make, this is a great little project to keep your kids’ hands busy and off of the treats before guests arrive. (Snap!)

Football Mason Jar Drinks

Ditch plastic party cups and plain Coke cans by whipping up a few football mason jars to serve your beverages. Added Tip: Choose striped paper straws in Seahawks or Patriots colors! (Flamingo Toes)

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips! Follow Ebates on Facebook and Twitter!

Get $50 by Inviting 2 Friends!

September 30, 2014

2014 Pop Culture Halloween Costumes

Searching for a costume idea to help you really stand out this Halloween? We’ve compiled some of our favorite pop culture females from the last year to help you to create your own costume inspired by these dynamic ladies.

[masterslider id=2]

Prices and Cash Back percentages subject to change.

March 5, 2014

Spring Produce: Shop Smarter

Here at Ebates we are trying so hard to stick to keep up our healthy eating resolutions. One of the ways we are doing this is keeping ourselves very aware of new, tasty vegetables by trekking to any and all farmer’s markets. This past weekend we paid way too much attention to the flowers and dried fruit, so we decided to brush up on which fruits and veggies to pay the closest attention to at our next farmer’s market adventure. Here are Spring’s best produce options:

Apricots: we are going to grab some, chop them up and toss them in some Greek yogurt. Sprinkle with some almonds and voila – breakfast!

Asparagus: this is one of our favorite veggies. It’s so versatile. We have roasted it with a little olive oil, salt, & pepper. We have thrown it into an omelette with some cheese. We have eaten in a quinoa salad with various other veggies.

Beets: We are always struck by how sweet this veggie is. It hasn’t always been a favorite, but we have found ways to really enjoy it. Our favorite way to prepare beets is quite simple and VERY tasty. Cut off the stems and poke a few little holes in the beet with a fork or sharp knife. Then wrap them in foil with a little salt and olive oil. Bake at 350 for an hour. Once they are cooled a bit remove the skin, slice in pieces and sprinkle with some goat cheese and chopped chives.

Cherries: we aren’t huge fans of cherries, but are eager to give them another chance. Or maybe a few more. These could easily be pitted and served just like the apricots, or just snacked on in front of the TV.

Fennel: We are recent converts to team fennel after having it in a wonderful salad at a local restaurant. It was served sliced quite thin with tomatoes and pitted olives in a light vinaigrette. We know that doesn’t sound the most delicious, but it is worth trying.

Leeks: Leeks are one of our favorite veggies. They make everything taste better. We saute them in a little olive oil and throw them in fritattas, salads, soups, stews. They add a delicious onion-y flavor but less sharp and more sweet.

Peas: No shocker here that peas made this list. We are big fans of peas but don’t have a ton of recipes to share. We typically shell them and saute with a little salt and butter. A little fresh grated parmesean makes for a nice finish.

Rhubarb: We aren’t skilled in the art of pie making but love a good strawberry rhubarb pie. Grab these red and pink stalks because their season is quite short!