Practically Free Lemonade

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e5/0a/48/e50a48f36cc83d00314fcb28c9231ed4.jpgI used up the last of my agave nectar making zucchini bread. I apologize for the pic – mine didn’t turn out so I grabbed one off the net. I gave credit to the photographer in the link to the photo.

I turned the bottle upside down and let it drain into the measuring cup but there was still quite a bit of nectar clinging to the sides of the bottle so I added the juice from one lemon, filled the bottle to the top with filtered water, shook it up and had myself some practically free lemonade AND a bottle I could drink from and toss into a recycling bin when I was done. I’d call that a two-fer recycling job!

New Uses For Tired Vinyl Tablecloths

A few months ago I decided that I never wanted to use another vinyl tablecloth. I’d rather use cloth ones and bite the bullet when it comes to doing the laundry. Being an Irish gal raised by an Irish mother and grandmother though, there was no way I was just going to toss my vinyl tablecloths in the trash can. Tag along as I look for ways to use my vinyl tablecloths …

Diaper Changing Pad

Click this image for the tute.I especially like this idea because if the changing pad gets so yucky that wiping it off is no longer an option I wouldn’t have any qualms about just tossing it.

Smashed Peas And Carrots Diaper Pad Tutorial

 

 

 

 

Children’s Art Center

A vinyl tablecloth is idea to cover the floor when the kiddos are working on a messy art project.

 

Plant Doilies

Cut circles from your vinyl tablecloth that are slightly bigger than your flower pots. These are great for protecting your floors and furniture from any moisture. Bonus – your new doilies will keep the pots from sticking to the surface they’re resting on.

Shelf & Drawer Liners

Cut your tablecloth to fit shelves and drawers for pretty liners with a little extra cushion, perfect for storing breakable items.

 

Patio Pillows

Cut your tablecloth and stitch or tape to make covers for your existing patio furniture pillows.

 

Car Protector

Keep a vinyl tablecloth in your car for when you’re transporting pets, wet and/or sandy children, plants …

 

Beach Totes

Cut and stitch or tape into custom-sized beach totes. Easy to clean and easy to toss out when they get too gross.

 

Card Table Cover

If you have an old card table with a top that’s seen some wear and tear you can cut and glue a vinyl tablecloth to the top to make a pretty new card table.

 

If you have any other ideas for using a vinyl tablecloth please comment below.

 

Bubble Wrap & The Odd Window

Most of our IA readers know not to throw out bubble wrap. You all faithfully stash it and use it to package items you are shipping or moving, but how about thinking outside of the box (pun intended) and using your bubble wrap to:

Insulate Windows – spray windows with water and press bubble wrap directly onto the glass. The water will hold the bubble wrap tight against the glass for weeks and is easily removed when the weather turns warm.

Plant Protection – use bubble wrap to loosely tent over plants to protect from light frost.

Protect Your China – cut into squares and use in between plates and bowls when stacking in your cupboards. You can also use this technique to protect pots and pans stored inside each other.

Stadium Seating – tape a square or two to the bottom of your stadium cushion for an extra layer of warmth and cushioning.

Decorative Paint Treatment – use a brush to dab or brush on one or more colors directly onto a 5 inches to 12 inch square of bubble wrap. Press the painted side of the bubble wrap onto the surface you want to paint. Lift the bubble wrap away from the wall a bit and turn and press again. Continue turning and pressing until you get the effect you want. This is similar to sponge painting but has more depth and can be used to create effects such as suede or marble.

Shower Curtain – tape sheets of bubble wrap together with clear shipping tape or colored duct tape for a fun shower curtain.

Have Fun & Destress – go ahead, pop it! You know you want to.