This Is Our New Favorite Furniture Upgrade

Remember when I told you B+C was on a huge embroidery kick? Well I wasn’t kidding. This week we tried a whole new type of embroidery, so please give a warm welcome to our newest DIY: furniture embroidery! This project combines wood, paint and embroidery floss to give you a trifecta of textures and a stunning, unique piece of furniture for your home. Small space or not, embroidery furniture will fit in anywhere.

Materials:

– spray paint

– embroidery floss

– paint pen

– wooden furniture of your choice (We used two tables.)

Tools:

– sander + sandpaper

– drill + 1/64 HSS drill bit

– embroidery needle

Instructions:

1. Use a ruler and paint pen to draw out your pattern or phrase onto the top of your furniture.

2. Drill holes with even spacing on top of the pattern.

3. Sand down the top and bottom of the table. Then clean off the dust.

4. Spray paint the table your favorite color and let dry.

5. Thread your embroidery needle with four strings of floss and sew to connect the dots and form your pattern.

For this DIY, old beat-up tables will be your best friend. We picked up these two at Urban Ore in Berkeley, but any thrift store or garage sale would be a perfect place to go shopping.

Table one makes use of two DIY skills: embroidery and hand lettering.

Embroidered Hand-Lettered Table

Use a paint pen to draw out your favorite phrase or song lyric. Don’t fret over the paint pen lines; they’ll disappear once sanded and spray painted.

Drill holes about every half inch, following the paint pen lines.

Sand down the top of the table, getting rid of the paint pen lines and other imperfections.

Flip the table over and sand the underside to get rid of any possible splinters. We suggest sanding the legs of the table as well to prep the wood for a new coat of paint. This will help the paint from chipping in the future.

Grab your favorite color of spray paint and give your piece of furniture a new look. Once dry, spray with a clear sealant to help prevent future chipping.

Time to embroider! Thread your needle with four strands of floss and start weaving your way through the holes to watch your favorite phrase appear.

Hey, table — you got this.

This half table is perfect for an entryway or a small space home.

Embroidered Geometric Table

Use embroidery to add fun geometric flair to the edges of your coffee table.

We created isosceles triangles and drew a straight line down the middle with half-inch marks along the way. These marks, along with the three points of the triangle, will become drilled holes.

Here’s a view of the pre-drilled table.

Drill and sand the top and underside of the table to prep it for spray paint.

Have you ever used granite spray paint? It is so easy to use and gives amazing texture to whatever piece you are working on. Before you use granite spray, lay a base color underneath to create a polished look.

Thread your needle with four strands of embroidery floss and weave through the holes. Notice how each stitch went back to the base points of the triangle to add a burst to the shape.

Use different colors of floss to incorporate the palette of your room into your new embroidered table.

Hand lettered or embroidered geometry: We love them both!

Show us your project by tagging us on Instagram + using hashtag #iamcreative!

DIY Production and Styling: Kelly Bryden
Photography: Kurt Andre

Before you toss those food scraps on the compost pile (or in the trash bin), take a peek at all of the clever ways that they can be repurposed. From peels to cores, poultry to produce and everything in between, these 14 awesome upcycled food recipes help you make the most out of your groceries and make your meals feelbrand new. It's a smart move that's just as good for the Earth as it is for your wallet. Oh yeah, and they taste great too!

Upcycled Food Recipes To Make In 2024

Bacon Fat: The crisp slices may be the real star, but the bacon fat is nothing to just discard. (Plus, tossing it down the drain or in the trash can't be good for your home's plumbing or the environment, right?). It adds a subtle smokiness to this yummy bacon jam, but you can also use it as a popcorn topping!. (via Brit + Co)

Citrus Peels: Turn your favorite peels into marmalade with this easy recipe. Spread it on toast for breakfast or use it in a dessert — it's just that versatile. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Seeds: We can hardly keep track of all the ways pumpkin seeds and guts can be repurposed. Stirring them into puppy chow is a great option for those who enjoy theirs a little sweeter. (via Brit + Co)

Apple Peels: You'll love sipping on homemade apple peel bourbonas a spicy, warming alternative to the usual flavored vodka and “fiery" store-bought selections. The sweet, autumnal notes mean it's just as good enjoyed neat or in a hot toddy. (via Food52)

Leftover Bones: Whip up a batch of brodo or this delicious creamy chicken, mushroom and green chile soup the next time you roast a chicken and pick it clean. (via Kitchen Sanctuary)

Chard Stems: Yeah, we can pickle chard stems for a sour afternoon pick-me-up. Not feeling something so puckery? Toss them on the grill instead. (via Bon Appétit)

Broccoli Stalks: Use the florets in your next stir fry, then transform the stalks into tasty baked fries like these broccoli stem fries. Dip 'em in chimichurri tahini for the ultimate snack. (via What's Cooking Good Looking)

Carrot Tops: If you buy fresh carrots with their tops, don't let them lop them off at the register. Instead, transform the fronds into a lovely pesto for roasted carrot soup. (via Cravings in Amsterdam)

Potato Peels: Crispy potato skins get an apeeling makeover when roasted, especially when sprinkled with cheese and scallions. (via The Kitchn)

Fennel Fronds: A pinch of fennel frond salt adds a subtle anise flavor anywhere it's sprinkled. (via Chew Town)

Apple Cores: Simmer apple cores and peels with a little sugar in a big pot of water to make an easy, no-waste apple juice. (via Inspiration Kitchen)

Papaya Seeds: You'll enjoy the interesting peppery taste papaya seeds lend this sweet and spicy watermelon blueberry salsa. Consider this the ultimate addition to the Memorial Day picnic. (via The Healthy Foodie)

Kale Stems: Kale stems are pretty tough to chew, but blending them in your next post-workout smoothie takes care of that issue, no sweat. Plus, when whirled with strawberries and banana, you'll hardly even know they're there. (via The Roasted Root)

Almond Pulp: If you make your own homemadealmond milk, it probably pains you a bit to just toss all the pulp you get after straining. Happily, it can be used to make grain-free cinnamon and peanut butter almond pulp crackers/cereal and more. (via The Edible Perspective)

What are some of your favorite hacks for turning trash into treasure, edible or not? Share your earth-friendly ideas (about upcycled food and more) with us on Twitter and follow us on Pinterest for more food inspo!

This post has been updated.

It’s no secret that Trader Joe’s absolutely kills it in the dessert department. I’m a massive fan of their Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupsand Chocolatey Coated Chocolate Chip Cookie Dunkers, but taking a gander down the frozendesserts aisle is an entirely different ballgame. From fruit-flavored mochi to decadent chocolate layered ice cream sammies, there’s something at Trader Joe’s for every kind of sweet tooth. Perfect for mid-day and midnight snacks alike, these are the 8 best Trader Joe’s frozen desserts that are worth every bite.

Scroll on for the 8 Trader Joe’s frozen desserts that belong in your next grocery haul!

Trader Joe's

1. Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones

These coffee-flavored, chocolate-covered, mini-sized ice cream cones are a total hoot. Their small size makes 'em unbelievably easy to snack on, though, so it may take some restraint to not eat the whole box in a single sitting (speaking from experience). You get a little bit of creaminess and crunch with each piece, which is insanely satisfying – and something you don't get too much of – from a frozen treat!

@traderjoesobsessed

2. Blood Orange Mochi Ice Cream

These addicting little pockets of blood orange-flavored ice cream wrapped in sweet mochi dough are super nostalgic, especially for someone like me who practically grew up on Flintstone's Push-Ups! They're the ideal finger food, and though you might assume eating each piece is messy, the snackin' experience is anything but. With just enough zing from the blood orange and plenty of sugary goodness, you're definitely going to want to buy at least three boxes at a time during your TJ's runs.

Trader Joe's

3. Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches

These ice cream sammies are simply a modern take on a beloved classic. They're just like those popular treats you can pick up at the gas station, but with tons more chocolate chips. TJ's says they've perfected the best "crunchy-chewy ratio" possible for the duo of chocolate chip cookies involved, both of which hug a thick dollop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet summertime – or anytime, really – refreshment.

@traderjolene

4. Macaron Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwiches

This brand-new Trader Joe's frozen dessert already has fans going crazy, and I get it – it's basically two of the best desserts in one! Surrounded by a pair of "delicate" macaron shells, these chocolate ice cream sandwiches are totally chocolated out. I'm certain any fan of chocolate will adore them.

A TJ's fan on Reddit noted that the macaron component of this treat is "perfectly cooked, sweet and chewy," while the ice cream "tastes premium... and has a lot of chocolate flavor."

"It’s like they made these just for me," someone else chimed in on the thread. Same here!

Trader Joe's

5. Chocolate Croissants

If you didn't know Trader Joe's carries frozen croissants by now, you've truly been missing out. No more paying $5 per pastry at your local cafe! These bake-and-eat goodies are crafted with high-quality butter and semisweet Belgian chocolate for a deliciously sweet balance – all without having to laminate the dough yourself (amen)! I love treating myself to this box to enjoy on a lazy Sunday morning alongside some fresh coffee.

Trader Joe's

6. Lemon Bars

As fun as they are to make yourself, these frozen, ready-to-eat lemon bars erase the need for you to drag out all of your bakeware! Also – oven, who?! After thawing out at room temp a bit, these truly taste just as fresh as they would if you DIY'ed them. These are my go-to Trader Joe's frozen dessert if I'm attending a party and need to bring something to share... but don't necessarily have all the time in the world to whip something up.

Trader Joe's

7. Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream

Die-hard TJ's fanatics might already know the pure magic that is their Speculoos Cookie Butter, but not many know that the grocer's incorporated it into a deliciously creamy pint of ice cream! This frozen find is swirled with the famous butter and packed with pieces of cookie for extra Speculoos oomph. I like to add some chocolate chips to mine (like a total chocolate fiend), but I also think TJ's Teensy Candy Bars or crushed Chocolate Vanilla Creme Joe-Joe's would work wonderfully as toppings.

Trader Joe's

8. Brownie Crisp Coffee Ice Cream Sandwiches

Chocolate and coffee is a top-tier food combo, and it's downright irresistible if it comes in a frozen form like this. While traditional ice cream sandwiches typically come with cookies as the top and bottom layers, this TJ's dessert comes complete with a duo of brownie crisps to provide a unique bite. Eat them on their own, or dare to go bold and try one affogato-style!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more tasty Trader Joe's finds!

Whatever Halloween DIYs you’ve got planned in the coming weeks, mark out some time for a few more. Made of everyday, inexpensive household items, these 18 upcycled DIYs are sure to make this year’s Halloween budget-friendly. For example, you can cut up an old t-shirt to make an affordable, chic DIY costume. And don’t get us started on how many unique and spooky decorations you can make with mason jars. For more how-to inspiration, keep scrolling!

1. Halloween Washi Magnet Clips: Give wooden clothespins a Hallo-worthy makeover with as little as a button and washi tape. Clip them onto a line of twine for an instant hanging photo album, or, if you want to use them as fridge memo holders, add magnetic tape strips to their backs. (via Inside Bru Crew Life)

2. All Eyes on You Wreath: For decor that’s as creepy as it is fun, make this DIY eyeball wreath out of ping-pong balls. It’s a lighthearted and colorful way to celebrate the season. (via I Love to Create)

3. Balloon-Dipped Mason Jars: Achieve these candy corn-inspired mason jars with minimal mess using balloons — no glue or paint required! They make for a festive flower vase or colorful candle holder. (via Brit + Co)

4. Jack-o’-Lantern Jars: Whether you use them as Halloween decorations or trick-or-treating buckets, these DIY jack-o’-lantern jars are a cinch to make. Instead of tossing your baby food jars or salsa containers in the recycling, you can make Pinterest-ready decor. (via Make It & Love It)

5. Little Halloween Monsters: If you happen to have a few empty pill bottles, use them to create these adorable little Halloween monsters with some fabric and felt scraps. Keep them from toppling over by filling them with marbles for ballast. (via This Heart of Mine)

6. Duct Tape Trick-or-Treat Candy Buckets: Turn an old paint can into a one-of-a-kind candy bucket your little one will love. All you’ll need for this DIY is some cardboard, an empty can and an assortment of duct tape in festive colors. (via Mer Mag)

7. Glittery Pumpkin Mason Jars: Glitter can do no wrong! Add some shimmer and shine to an orange-painted mason jar for cute and budget-friendly Halloween decor. (via Life Is a Lullaby)

8. DIY Ombre Wine Bottles: Ombre is a look that’s in all year round. Give old wine bottles a festive finish with an ombre spray-paint job inspired by candy corn. Once your bottles are dry, spruce them up even further with a bouquet of orange-hued flowers or a branch of autumnal leaves. (via Brit + Co)

9. Halloween Heels: Whether you’re dressing up as a skeleton or just want to add Halloween flavor to your work outfit, DIY these skeleton heels. While you’re at it, try making skeleton gloves to complete the look. (via Instructables)

10. Halloween Mason Jar Luminaries: These DIY luminaries illuminate a spooky silhouette, throwing even spookier shadows. Line them up on your windowsill to give your home an eerie flickering glow. (via Princess Pinky Girl)

11. Giant Yarn Spiderweb: Breathe new life into a thrifted frame with spray paint and a little yarn-weaving. The result will be an intricate display that trumps any store-bought cobweb. (via Made Everyday)

12. Eraser-Stamped Halloween Shirt: Do you have a plain t-shirt that could use a makeover? With fabric paint and the eraser end of a pencil, you too can create these frightfully fun bat-patterned shirts. Try this technique with silhouettes of cats, jack-o’-lanterns or other spooky icons. (via Cutesy Crafts)

13. Rib Cage T-Shirt: You’ll definitely get a skele-TON of compliments rocking this DIY rib cage tee. All you’ll need is a simple white or black t-shirt, a pair of scissors and some free templates to recreate this look. (via Martha Stewart)

14. Tin Can Halloween Decorations: Rather than throwing out your empty soup cans, upcycle them by turning them into these modern jack-o’-lanterns. Add a tealight candle to cast creepy shadows. (via Crafty Magazine)

15. Spooky Spiderweb Hoops: If you’ve got a couple of spare embroidery hoops, it’s quick and fun to weave these impressive DIY spiderwebs. Clip a spider pin onto the webbing, or make one of out chenille stems, to complete the scene. (via A Night Owl)

16. Spooky Skull Treat Boxes: If you’re anything like us, you’re probably finding these old plastic Easter eggs in drawers and under furniture for months after the holiday. Why not turn them into Halloween treat boxes? (via Martha Stewart)

17. Mummy Luminary: Light up the night with these mummy-inspired luminaries made from empty food jars. As a safety precaution, because of the fabulous but flammable gauze, use battery-operated tea lights to illuminate them. (via Bren Did)

18. Spooky Tin Can Lantern: Line your walkway with these spooky lanterns made out of used tin cans. Depending on the paint you use, these can work indoors or out, with real or battery-operated candles. (via The Paper Mama)

Will you try your hand at these spooky chic Halloween DIYs? Follow us on Pinterest for more spooky DIY ideas!

One of the first (and most meaningful) decisions you'll make as a parent is selecting your little one's name. If you're drawn to rich cultural heritage, Italian baby names serve as stellar options that offer a blend of tradition, charm, and history.

So, whether you're of Italian descent or simply appreciate the beauty of the language, here are some Italian baby names that you can't go wrong with.

Scroll to see all the classic Italian baby names we can't get enough of in 2025!

1. Bianca

Yarenci Hdz

Bianca is a beautiful moniker for girls that means "white" or "pure." It's simple yet elegant, signifying innocence, freshness, and grace.

While it originated in Italy, this name has since become popular in numerous countries, including Brazil, Germany, and Romania. It also carries literary charm since it's linked to the character Bianca in Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew.

2. Carlo

Helena Lopes

With both Italian and German roots, Carlo is a distinguished name that actually means "free man." It has traveled across Europe due to its popularity, showing up everywhere, from the streets of Naples to the mountains of Bavaria.

It has a regal sound that carries a sense of freedom and strength. That's why Carlo is a great choice for parents seeking a name that embodies heritage and an adventurous spirit.

3. Isabella

Gustavo Fring

With roots in the Hebrew name Elisheva and the English variation Elizabeth, Isabella carries a sense of grace and reverence. It means "devoted to God" and has remained popular for centuries as a favorite among royals and celebrities.

Plus, its connection to the Italian word "bella" makes it an even more fitting and timeless pick for a beautiful little girl.

4. Alessio

Jonny Pinto

This strong yet graceful Italian name means "defender" and encourages little boys to stand up for what they believe in. As a shorter form of Alessandro, it also has a melodic flow and a distinct, stylish sound.

Alessio's Italian roots make it a wonderful option for those who want to honor their heritage with a classic name that stands the test of time.

5. Francesca

Catalina Carvajal Herrera

Francesca has both German and Italian roots. It's likely derived from the Old Germanic word "franko," which means "Frenchman," but it also connects to the Italian name Francis and translates to "free."

This gives Francesca a sense of independence and individuality, encouraging self-expression and freedom. Moreover, it's associated with St. Francis of Assisi and the Franciscans who embraced humility and love for all living things.

6. Lorenzo

Goda Morgan

With origins in Latin, Italian, and Spanish, this name means "from Laurentum" or "from the town of bay trees." Lorenzo has a connection to nature that's elegant and rich in historical significance.

As a variant of Laurence, it has been a beloved name in Southern Europe for centuries. Lorenzo's lasting appeal is partly thanks to its association with influential figures, such as Lorenzo de' Medici, the Florentine Renaissance prince, and the name's appearances in Shakespearean plays.

7. Luciana

Thomas Ronveaux

Luciana is a feminine name with Italian roots that means "light." It's derived from the Latin word "lux," which signifies brightness.

Naming your daughter Luciana is the perfect way to honor her as a shining presence in your life. This pick symbolizes warmth, joy, and hope while delivering a soft sound.

8. Matteo

Hanna Auramenka

Lastly, Matteo is a charming and masculine name with origins in both Italian and Hebrew, meaning "gift of God." As the Italian version of the classic Matthew, it carries a more romantic flair.

This name also has a lively, energetic vibe and offers the cute nickname option Teo. It's a timeless choice with meaningful symbolism that doesn't sacrifice modern style.

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Nothing screams springquite like pastel hues, but right now, butter yellow is hot. This season’s crop of dresses is definitely embracing the shade in the best way possible! From breezy sundresses to flirty slips, these butter yellow beauties are simply perfect for donning spring’s “it” color. If you're looking to refresh your wardrobe with a color that feels effortlessly chic, these 12 picks are a must-see!

Scroll on for our 12 favorite stylish butter yellow dresses you can shop now!

J.Crew

J.Crew Cotton Poplin Zip-Up Shirtdress

This shirtdress has the perfect laid-back vibe for your spring weekend 'fits, though it's still polished enough that you could turn it more formal with heels and a sophisticated jewelry stack.

Target

Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Sundress

This Target dress has our full attention! The drop waist is undeniably flattering on all body types, plus the butter yellow shade is right on point. All for $30?! We're here for it.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Premium Linen Drop-Waist Belted Maxi Dress

This strapless maxi is ideal for this year's Easter plans, as a wedding guest dress, or as a getup for a garden party! The attached belt pulls the look together perfectly.

Urban Outfitters

Amy Lynn Puffball Midi Dress

Along with butter yellow being a huge trend in today's fashion, bubble hems are equally as cool. Combine the two with this adorable tie-strap dress that supplies a super femme feel.

Nordstrom

Petal & Pup Aliyah Cotton Eyelet Maxi Dress

The breezy cotton material this dress is made of makes it so comfy to wear all day long. What's more is it boasts an adorable eyelet pattern for added spring flair! The square neckline is also extremely flattering and will draw all eyes toward you.

Banana Republic

Banana Republic Knit Midi Dress

Inspired by ballet fashion, this "subtly stretchy" midi dress pulls you together without being overly restrictive. The sheer skirt is luckily lined with a mini-length slip that ensures coverage as you move!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie The Tilda Slip Dress

For a fuss-free slip dress, this silky pick from Anthro is the way to go. It's super sleek and chic, so you can dress it up or down with ease. From comfy sneakers to elevated heels, you'll be lookin' oh-so fab!

Free People

Free-est Taking Sides Maxi

The tiered design on this maxi moment is downright whimsical. We'd wear it to a springtime picnic or happy hour to feel like instant royalty! Plus, it's made of cotton, so you won't have to worry about losing that easy, breezy fit you love.

Urban Outfitters

AFRM Vienna Asymmetric Ruffle Maxi Dress

Hello, ruffles! This butter yellow dress is practically covered in 'em, perfect for formal occasions and dinner dates.

Target

Wild Fable Flutter Short Sleeve Maxi A-Line Dress

How dreamy! This maxi that's fitted with flutter sleeves has such a playful and femme effect, which is heightened by the cutie bows atop the shoulders. This pick is another excellent choice for an Easter dress, but it's easily timeless enough to don all spring and summer long!

Nordstrom

WAYF Cara Floral Cap Sleeve Linen Blend Midi Dress

If solids aren't quite your style, this midi is covered in floral motifs to help you embrace the blooms of spring even further. The lace linings around the hem and neckline are irresistibly cute, too!

Free People

Free-est Onda Drop-Waist Long-Sleeve Mini

The combo of the drop waist and three-quarter-length sleeves on this marvelous mini dress lend it such a romantic feel, which is ideal for date nights and cocktails with the gals. We'd let the squared neckline shine by wearing this with our hair up and some kitten heels for added cuteness!

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