Last week the computer picked up a virus. We got it to the computer hospital, and finally had it returned home fit and well yesterday.While annoying, it was actually pretty useful to have some extra time. Normally I will make time to tweet or blog at some point, and put things off that need doing but can wait until another day. Boring stuff like sorting out kitchen cupboards, and giving the fridge and freezer a good clean and tidy. Things that needed to be done, but were easily put off.
It wasn't all dull though, I found some nice things to do too.
For example. 'Mollie Makes' magazine usually comes with something to make on the front cover. All the bits and pieces needed are inside an envelope, and the instructions and templates are inside the mag. I found three such mini projects that I'd clearly stashed with the thought 'I'll make them one day'. I made them, and really enjoyed doing so. Let's not focus too much on Babushka's demented looking face though.
And the peas in a pod project that I'd started and put aside a couple of years ago,and couldn't remember what I'd got planned for them? Completed. They're just decoration for now. 
I was inspired after that. I made a new pea pod, stitching in small pearls, gluing in some sparkles, and turning it into a brooch. 
And I finally made the Inspiration board of my dreams. Ok, that sounds a bit dramatic, but I've been looking for something to use for an inspiration board that would be practical and pretty. Nothing in the shops seemed suitable, so I did the obvious thing and made it myself. I chose a really pretty picture frame. I wanted it to be decorated and square, but you can use any old frame that you have kicking around. Paint it to suit your taste.
A cheapo cork board is perfect (The Range sell them for £2.49), and then you need some fabric. I bought half a metre of faux suede (The Range, approx £2.50).
So easy to do. Remove the glass and other bits from the frame, then cut the cork board to fit. I had to add a little to the end to get the right shape. Then, get your fabric and cover it over the cork board, pulling tightly and attaching at the back. Push the cork board into the frame and secure. Takes minutes to do. Here it is, my inspiration board.
I thought that I'd better make a few extra pins to use. Pearl headed pins are pretty, and you can make your own version quite easily. Three steps. Take ordinary dressmaking pins and put a dab of clue on the head. Add a bead and push to the end. Hange upside down to dry so gravity can keep things in place.
Quick, easy, and cheap to do.I made something else, but that can wait for another day!