How to Prepare For Acupuncture Treatment

How to Prepare For Acupuncture Treatment



Rooted in ancient Chinese traditions, acupuncture involves piercing the body with needles at prescribed points to promote or restore health and wellness. Acupuncture has been used to treat a wide range of maladies, including allergies, asthma, depression and addictions.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access to research acupuncture







Prepare for Acupuncture Treatment




1


Go in with a positive attitude. Visit the Acupuncture.com Web site to read about what acupuncture treatments entail (see Resources below). More importantly, the site offers you the opportunity to read testimonials written by those who've had success with acupuncture. Their stories will help you prepare for your treatment with the sort of attitude that attracts success.





2


Dress comfortably. Acupuncture needles may remain inserted in your body for 30 minutes or more, so it's important that you wear an outfit you're able to relax in. Also, you should wear something that offers easy access to the elbows and knees, since these are common acupuncture points.





3


Have a light meal. Acupuncturists recommend against undergoing treatment on an empty stomach, so be sure to eat 2 to 4 hours before your session. Heavy meals are a no-no before treatment and are not recommended.





4


Get a good night's sleep. Extreme fatigue can compromise the effectiveness of your acupuncture treatment. The night before your treatment, don't skimp on slumber. This will help ensure that you arrive fully rested.





5


Prepare to expand your knowledge of acupuncture by reading "Acupuncture for Everyone: What It Is, Why It Works, and How It Can Help You" by Dr. Ruth Kidson (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Acupuncture ranges in cost from moderate to expensive. Rates depend on the background of your therapist and the city in which he or she practices.








If you're experiencing severe symptoms such as extreme nausea or chest pains, don't attempt to treat your condition with acupuncture. Your ailment may be life-threatening and is best addressed by a physician.








Booze and acupuncture do not mix. It's best to avoid drinking alcohol in the hours before your treatment.








If you're upset for some reason or on the horns of an emotional crisis in the hours before your session, you might want to consider postponing your treatment, since that kind of mind state could potentially compromise the efficacy of your therapy.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031346_prepare-acupuncture-treatment.html

How to Obtain Acupuncture Treatment

How to Obtain Acupuncture Treatment



Acupuncture is a healing discipline rooted in Chinese traditions. Thin needles are inserted in the skin at specific points, with the aim of treating conditions ranging from asthma to impotence.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access for researching and contacting acupuncturists









1


Research acupuncturists in your area. Go online to find therapists in your area (see Resources below). Obtain phone numbers and email addresses so you can contact them for further details and pricing.





2


Ask about credentials. Pepper your list of candidates with questions about their training. Inquire about where he or she trained, the length of training and the duration of time for which the he or she has been in business. Some states require that acupuncturists be licensed--in fact, licensing is required in about 40 states. If your state falls in this camp, ask candidates if they have been certified by the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncturists (see Resources below).





3


Inquire about pricing. Rates will vary depending on factors like education and experience. Consider your budget and insurance situation when evaluating rates offered by different practitioners.





4


Decide on a practitioner. Pick the acupuncturist whose rates and experience best meet your needs.





5


Obtain broader insight into the world of acupuncture by doing research online (see Resources below). You'll learn about the history of this practice, as well as its many applications.








Tips & Warnings










Acupuncture therapy varies in price from moderate to expensive. The cost is influenced by qualifications and experience of the acupuncturist. Location also plays a part; treatment costs more in certain cities than in others.








Many plans offer coverage for acupuncture. Note, though, that Medicare and Medicaid won't cover this treatment.








Herbs and supplements may be included as part of your treatment. These are inexpensive to moderate in price, but they aren't covered by insurance.








If you're experiencing severe symptoms such as the vomiting of blood or pus, don't attempt to treat your condition with acupuncture. Seek the care of a doctor. You could be suffering from a life-threatening illness.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031347_obtain-acupuncture-treatment.html

How to Manipulate the Neck for Chiropractic Care

How to Manipulate the Neck for Chiropractic Care



Neck manipulation is one of the safest treatments for neck pain. Although there have been a few documented cases of patients having strokes following cervical (neck) manipulation, statistics indicate that the incidence of stroke following manipulation is only 1 case out of every 8 million patients. The odds are much better of getting struck by lightning.







Things You'll Need:





Appointment with your chiropractor







Manipulate the Neck for Chiropractic Care




1


Make an appointment to see your chiropractor. Take your medical history, list of prior hospitalizations and surgeries and a list of current medications.





2


Know that once organic reasons for your neck pain have been ruled out, your chiropractor will most likely choose to manipulate your neck in order to relieve your pain.





3


Ask your chiropractor if you need x-rays to determine a base line view of your neck and upper spinal region at the height of your pain. Then inquire if future x-rays will be necessary after your neck manipulations have begun.





4


Expect to sit or lie on an adjusting table with your chiropractor standing behind you.





5


Know that your chiropractor will examine your neck joints, one by one, through a series of gentle motions. He or she will check to see if any of the joints have become locked or fixated by taking each joint through its 5 ranges of motion.





6


Understand that if there is a lack of spinal joint motion, your D.C. will tell you that you have a subluxation. This will require your chiropractor to manipulate your neck. Expect to hear a cracking or popping sound as your chiropractor manipulates your neck.





7


Realize that it may take a number of sessions for your neck pain to dissipate.





8


Learn more about chiropractic care by visiting the American Chiropractors Association Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










There are fewer adverse effects reported from neck manipulations than from the common pain meds and/or anti-inflammatory drugs usually prescribed for cervical pain.








If you experience more pain once your treatments begin, contact your medical doctor at once. Also be aware of any sudden changes in your general health. Report chest pains, shortness of breath or extreme vomiting to your medical doctor or the nearest emergency room.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners are licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider and keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033173_manipulate-neck-chiropractic.html

How to Find Alternative Therapies to Treat Skin Cancer

How to Find Alternative Therapies to Treat Skin Cancer



While most oncologists and dermatologists feel it is extremely risky to replace conventional skin cancer treatments with alternative therapies such as herbal remedies, acupuncture, massage and vitamin supplements, they do recognize that many of them help to alleviate stress and increase the feeling of well-being. It is important, however, to separate the alternative therapies which may interfere with conventional treatment from the ones that do no harm.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




Oncologist or dermatologist







Find Alternative Therapies to Treat Skin Cancer




1


Research alternative therapies to treat skin cancer through objective sources, such as the Web site for the National Cancer Institute (see Resources below), as opposed to Web sites and books that are designed to sell you a specific product or program.





2


Discuss with your oncologist or dermatologist your desire to seek out alternative therapies to treat skin cancer. Some herbal supplements and vitamins may actually interfere with any prescription medication you may be taking, so it is essential that you inform your healthcare team every step of the way.





3


Talk to others who have tried alternative therapies to see what has worked for them and what hasn't. Support groups for skin cancer may be an invaluable resource for this.





4


Ask your doctor if he has treated any patients who have tried alternative therapies and have achieved good results.



Pick the Alternative Therapy That is Right for You




1


Consider a vitamin or herbal supplement that has been approved by your oncologist or dermatologist and will not interfere with any treatment you are already receiving.





2


Investigate such alternative methods such as acupuncture and massage that may be beneficial to you in terms of relieving the stress and anxiety that may be caused by undergoing cancer treatment.





3


Maintain a strict follow-up procedure with your doctor so that he can monitor any changes in your condition while you are trying alternative therapies to treat skin cancer.








Tips & Warnings










Seek a second opinion after being diagnosed with skin cancer to ensure that you are well informed, and that you are aware of patients' rights and the legal rights of their families.








Many alternative practitioners recommend simple lifestyle changes, such as eating a diet right in phytochemicals to strengthen your immune system.








Consult with your doctor for methods to reduce the stress of dealing with cancer treatments, such as support groups, anti-depressants and other types of counseling before you attempt an alternative treatment.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033582_alternative-therapies-treat.html

How to Find Alternative Therapies to Treat Ovarian Cancer

How to Find Alternative Therapies to Treat Ovarian Cancer



Ovarian cancer is a malignant growth in or on the ovaries. For many women suffering from ovarian cancer, pursuing alternative therapies can help alleviate side effects, reduce stress and anxiety and even treat the actual disease. Many women find that alternative therapies are as if not more successful than traditional treatment methods.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Speak to Your Doctor About Using Alternative Therapies to Treat Your Ovarian Cancer




1


Make sure that the alternative therapy won't interfere with your primary medical treatment. Ask your doctor if he or she knows of any ways your treatments might counteract each other.





2


Ask your doctor if there are any alternative therapies or alternative therapy practitioners that he or she might recommend. Many women are pleasantly surprised to discover that their doctor encourages alternative therapy as an additional treatment for ovarian cancer.





3


Be an informed patient. Do research about techniques and results before you agree to try out an alternative therapy.



Discover Different Forms of Alternative Cancer Therapy




1


Investigate biologically based therapies. Look into methods of treatment that involve herbs, vitamins, dietary supplements or dietary restrictions. You may have access to a nutritionist through your insurance company.





2


Explore body-based therapies. Treatments such as massage therapy, reflexology, acupuncture and chiropractic therapy are all methods that involve working with the whole body to treat cancer.





3


Consider mind-based therapies. The techniques of hypnosis, meditation and yoga are other alternative treatment methods that have been used by ovarian cancer patients. If you are religious or spiritual, consider the power of prayer, as well.



Expand Your Resources




1


Contact official organizations and agencies to find out information about alternative therapies. Check with the American Cancer Society or organizations specifically devoted to ovarian cancer (see Resources below).





2


Speak to your healthcare team. Any of your physicians or specialists should be able to provide you with information about alternative therapy practitioners whom you can trust.





3


Consider contacting an ovarian cancer support group whose members may have undergone alternative therapies.








Tips & Warnings










Cancer patients have the right to pursue alternative forms of therapy and, in many cases, insurance companies must finance these alternative choices.








Ask your doctors about any research they have access to regarding alternative therapies.








Undergoing any kind of treatment is an emotionally difficult experience, and care should be taken to treat your mental as well as your physical health.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033508_alternative-therapies-treat.html

How to Design a New Outfit

How to Design a New Outfit



Whether they make their own clothes or buy them in stores, women are always looking for that new great outfit. If you want to be fashion-savvy you need to learn how to put pieces together to create something that makes you feel good and look even better.









Step
1



Sketch your design in a notebook or sketchbook. Think about what sort of sleeves, pant or skirt lines, patterns and accessories you want to incorporate into your design. Draw one complete outfit or draw and cut out mix and match tops and bottoms to pair individual pieces in many ways.




Step
2



Consider what fabrics you want in your outfit. Choose heavier textured fabrics for winter, light airy fabrics for summer. Go to a fabric store or go through your closet to find which types of fabrics you like best.




Step
3



Sew your own designs if you know how to cut your own patterns and run a sewing machine. If you're a beginner, start small with a simple skirt pattern from a fabric store and make it your own by adding your choice of fabric.




Step
4



Shop for pieces you can't make yourself. Browse clothing websites and malls to find clothes similar to your designs. Try everything on to make sure it fits, but remember that you can alter pieces later.




Step
5



Add accessories to your outfit to finish it. Choose jewelry, hats, belts, shoes, handbags and anything else that completes your design.




Step
6



Alter clothing yourself or pay a shop to do it for you. If your pants are too long, or your shirt too wide, shorten them with a sewing machine. Change the buttons, add custom stitching or dye fabric to make it exactly what you want.




Step
7



Mix new pieces with old to create new looks. Design your outfit based on clothes you already have, adding accessories or altering it to make it new and modern.







Tips & Warnings









Be creative. It's your outfit--anything goes. Create your own signature look.








Avoid using a sewing machine by yourself if you've never used one. Ask a friend or family member to show you how to run it before you try it on your own.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2258226_design-new-outfit.html

How to Design a Custom Dress

How to Design a Custom Dress



Wanting a unique dress that's custom-fit for you can be an expensive endeavor that only celebrities and the very rich seem able to indulge. However, many women want special dresses made perfectly for their style and bodies, and they shouldn't spend thousands of dollars to get it. Follow a few steps to design a custom dress so you can wear unique couture without spending a fortune.







Things You'll Need:





Camera



Blank paper



Pencil and pen









Step
1



Get someone to take a picture of you standing both straight on and profile. Stand up straight and put your arms to your sides while taking the picture.




Step
2



Take a blank sheet of paper and use your pen to draw your shape from the pictures as best you can. Get a pencil and begin playing with different dress lengths and strap styles on that shape to see what would be most flattering.




Step
3



Go to a department store or boutique and try on dresses that catch your eye. Take pictures of yourself in the dresses you enjoy, and use some of the ideas from these dresses to tweak your own personal design.




Step
4



Use a computer drawing program to get the dimensions of the dress the way you want it. Scan your picture into a program like Adobe

Photoshop


, which can help you create the desired type of dress. Take your drawings or simple sketches to a seamstress for an estimate of fabric and production costs.




Step
5



Work with a seamstress to play around with lengths, colors and fabric choices since she can typically offer some great ideas. Try something you wouldn't normally think would look good on you. Explore and be creative.







Tips & Warnings









Flip through magazines to get a good idea of trends or styles that would work well with your body style.








Buy the fabric yourself rather than having the seamstress buy the fabric. It will be much cheaper, and you will get the exact fabric and pattern that fits your tastes so the seamstress doesn't have to guess your preferences.








Various websites offer software tools for designing your own dress. Try some of these tools since they can be surprisingly helpful in the process, especially for aspiring designers with limited artistic skills.








If sewing the dress yourself, keep in mind the difficulty of the pattern or if a pattern even exists. If you design a custom dress (unless it is a fairly standard dress shape), a pattern might not exist.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2097251_design-custom-dress.html

How to Deodorize Shoes With Salt

How to Deodorize Shoes With Salt



Deodorizing shoes with medicated powder can be a thing of the past once you realize that a simple solution to sweaty foot odor exists in your kitchen cabinet. Grab some salt and moistened paper towels to begin experiencing odorless shoes at a fraction of the cost of medicated powders.









Step
1



Pick up your shoes and shake them out. Bump their soles together to dislodge dirt or other residue inside and then turn them upside down over a trash can to dispose of it.




Step
2



Remove any special insoles that you have inside the shoes.




Step
3



Take a moistened paper towel and gently clean the inner sole. Keep cleaning until oils stop appearing on the paper towel.




Step
4



Allow the soles to air dry.




Step
5



Sprinkle salt into the shoes. Cover the entire sole, but pay special attention to areas of the foot that sweat the most like the toes and heels. Aiming for these areas helps the salt absorb excess moisture and neutralizes current smells.




Step
6



Rub the salt into the shoe's inner sole using a paper towel wrapped tightly around your finger.




Step
7



Replace any special soles with new ones. If the soles are permanent, clean them. Treat the replaced soles with salt, too.




Step
8



Let your shoes sit for a few hours while the salt works.




Step
9



Shake out any excess salt before wearing your shoes.




Step
10



Increase treatments during high-temperature weather or during activities that cause your feet to sweat.







Tips & Warnings









Don't use harmful detergents that may damage the interior of your shoe while cleaning.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2209754_deodorize-shoes-salt.html

How to Define Your Personal Style

How to Define Your Personal Style



Do you ever notice those people who always seem pulled together and fashionable? They make it look effortless. That's probably because they know exactly what their personal style is, which makes getting dressed in the morning effortless, because they love everything in their wardrobe!







Things You'll Need:





Two large containers (such as plastic trash barrels)









Step
1



Make a list of people whose style you admire. These can be fictional or real people, celebrities, movie characters, people you know or anyone else you can think of.




Step
2



Choose from the list those people that you would like to dress like. Find photos and images of those people (as many as possible) and study the individual things that they wear. Make a list of those individual items that you like.




Step
3



With the list of specific clothing items in hand, go through your wardrobe and pick out all of the pieces that match items on the list. Set these items aside.




Step
4



With your two large containers, go through the rest of the clothes in your wardrobe. The two containers are for things you want to donate to charity (for example, things that are in good condition but that you never wear), and things to be trashed (items you wouldn't give to charity, such as old socks or things with stains or holes). If you absolutely love an item, set it aside. Try things on if you can't decide which category to put them in.




Step
5



Try on all of the items in the pile you set aside (the one with items matching those on your list). Anything that doesn't fit or you don't love when you're actually wearing it, put in the charity container.




Step
6



Once you've finalized what you're keeping, check to see what else on the list you might want to add to your wardrobe.




Step
7



Go shopping to find new pieces for your wardrobe. Make sure that whenever you shop you keep in mind whether your style role models would wear whatever you're looking at, and make sure that you always try things on. Even if you love something on the rack, you may hate it when it's actually on.







Tips & Warnings









Don't feel bad about eliminating clothes from your wardrobe if you donate them to charity.








Always try clothes on. Sizing isn't standard, even within the same brand, so don't be surprised if you have to go up or down a size from your normal size.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2123607_define-personal-style.html

How to Defend a Shoe Habit

How to Defend a Shoe Habit



Shoes can be useful, pretty, athletic and they can cost an arm and a leg. When your collection of shoes reaches the double and triple digits, you may begin to hear the old familiar speech about being an "addict" and having a "habit" that is out of control, but don't fear. There are ways to defend a shoe habit to your closest friends and family.









Step
1



Take it one day at a time. Start at one end of your closet and wear a different pair of shoes each day. This way, when you are asked when you last wore a certain pair of shoes you can simply say "Well, I just wore those last week." This will buy you some time.




Step
2



Weed out the old. Before you buy a new pair of shoes, get rid of the one pair you know you will never wear again. You know, those high heeled sued boots with the fringe? Toss them. They went out of style when you were in high school, and you may have
children
older than those shoes. If you have a pair that you are only keeping for sentimental reasons, put them away somewhere. Getting them out of sight will get them out of your opponent's mind.




Step
3



Shop smart. When you have the nagging voice of a loved-one in your ear telling you that you have a problem that needs to be remedied, pacify them by shopping wisely when buying shoes. Buy only shoes that you know you will wear with at least two or three outfits. This will ensure that you can get more use out of them.




Step
4



Justify your spending. If you are dipping into savings for a pair of Mary Janes, then you may have a problem. If you can logically justify your spending habits on shoes in a court of law, then you should have no problem. Defend a shoe habit by showing bank records to the opposing party and letting them know that you are still able to pay your bills after buying three new pairs of shoes. If you can't say that, then maybe you can defend a shoe habit by curbing your buying until you have paid for the last three pair.




Step
5



Hide it. When in doubt pay for every shoe with cash. This is less traceable. Also, keep the shoe boxes and stack them in an unsuspecting closet for safe keeping. This way you can take them out as needed, and avoid the clutter of shoes that seem to overwhelm your bedroom closet.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2081180_defend-shoe-habit.html

How to Decorate Shoes

How to Decorate Shoes



When you head to your closet, you may see several pairs of practical sneakers, pumps and

sandals


. What you might not see are shoes that are as fun as they are functional. Learn to decorate your shoes for a host of funky, cute and beautiful looks.







Things You'll Need:





Shoelaces



Ribbon



Trim or lace



Jump rings



Charms



Clip-on earrings



Metal studs



Rhinestones



Iron-on patches



Paint markers



Fabric paint









Step
1



Swap your sneaker laces with laces in a new color, a length of textured ribbon or printed twill tape. Wrap lace around sandal straps, glue decorative trim to plain flip-flops or use ribbon and jump rings to add small charms to any shoe.




Step
2



Add a clip-on

earring


as a quick, interchangeable touch of glamour. Simply open the back, position the button or dangle earring at the top of the shoe and then snap the clasp shut.




Step
3



Dress up plain sandals and flip-flops by affixing metal studs or self-adhesive rhinestones along the straps. Arrange small gems around the tops or toes of your pumps and sneakers.




Step
4



Make a statement by adding iron-on patches and decals to canvas shoes. If you'd rather not affix them permanently, simply add the back half of a piece of Velcro to your shoe. Adhere the other half to assorted patches, then wear and change the designs at will.




Step
5



Create your own artwork with fabric markers or fabric paint. Draw a motif, decorate the straps, change the color of one panel or write a message along the side of your shoe to make a personal statement.







Tips & Warnings









Only spot clean shoes after you decorate with fabric paint, self-adhesive accents or decorative trim to preserve the design.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2240159_decorate-shoes.html

How to Decorate Jeans With Safety Pins

How to Decorate Jeans With Safety Pins



Turn an old pair of jeans into a new piece of creative fashion. Decorate your jeans with safety pins to create a Gothic look or to just stand out from the crowd. People will ask you where you got your jeans and you can tell them you made them yourself. The following steps will show you how.







Things You'll Need:





Pair of jeans



Thimble



Scissors



Safety pins









Step
1



Choose a pair of jeans to decorate with safety pins. Make sure the pants still fit well.




Step
2



Put the jeans on and put a small mark under both knees with a pencil on the outside seams of the jeans.




Step
3



Cut along the seam starting from underneath the waistline down to the mark you made on the outside seam of the jeans. Do this on both sides on the outside of the jeans.




Step
4



Attach the 2 ends of the jeans you have cut with the safety pins horizontally all the way down. Make sure you stick the pin all the way through the fabric on both sides and that it is securely fastened. You can make them as close or as far apart as you want to.




Step
5



Go all the way down to the bottom of the jeans along the seam with your safety pins after you have secured both ends of the denim.







Tips & Warnings









You don't have to cut the jeans if you don't want. You can just stick the pins all the way down the sides about a half inch apart.








You can use different sizes of safety pins or all one size. It's up to you. Let your creativity flow.








Wear a thimble to prevent sticking the safety pin into your fingers while you decorate your jeans.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2190025_decorate-jeans-safety-pins.html

How to Decorate Jean Pockets

How to Decorate Jean Pockets



Department stores and fashion boutiques command high prices for designer jeans. Avoid paying outrageous prices and get exactly what you want by making your own fashion statement. By simply learning a few ways to decorate the pockets on your favorite jeans, you can have a pair of stylish pants that are truly one-of-a-kind designer originals.









Step
1



Select a style of jeans that you enjoy wearing and that fits well.




Step
2



Iron on a favorite patch or piece of embroidery to the pocket for a fast and easy embellishment. These are available in a variety of designs, colors and fabrics at sewing supply shops, grocery stores and big box retailers.




Step
3



Visit a craft store and choose from a selection of fun materials and trinkets, like lace, buttons, faux jewels, fabric, beaded trim and ribbon. Use a good-quality fabric glue (one that stands up to machine washing) to attach these items or sew on using a strong embroidery thread. Apply studs or rhinestones in a geometric design or in a pattern (like a heart or a flower), punching them through the fabric and pressing down the prongs in the back.




Step
4



Paint a bold motif on the pockets using craft paint and stencils. Artistic types can also try free-handing a design.




Step
5



Color and "age" the pockets. Spray bleach directly on the pockets to lighten them; you can even use a stencil to create a special motif. Apply a rust-colored dye and fixative or rub a little spray-on sunscreen around the pocket edges to darken them and give your jeans a more worn appearance.




Step
6



Mix and match a couple of different techniques for an even more personalized look. Do so in moderation, however; a simple patch may look adorable outlined in a few rhinestones.







Tips & Warnings









Avoid getting bleach on any other clothing or on your hands.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2156950_decorate-jean-pockets.html

How to Decorate Crocs

How to Decorate Crocs



Crocs shoes are a ton of fun to wear. They come in dozens of different styles and colors and really make a statement. If you want to stand out in the crowd, go that extra step and learn how to personalize your Crocs. Here are some fun ways to decorate your Crocs so you'll be sure to get noticed.









Step
1



Switch out the strap. Buy a second pair of Crocs in a different color and remove the heel strap from each pair. Then switch out the straps, so that each one has a different color strap. It takes just seconds and adds a touch of interest to your crocs. Some Crocs retailers also sell straps separately in various colors.




Step
2



Pile on the jibbitz. Jibbitz are decorations created specifically for Crocs. They come in hundreds of different designs, so you can choose from cartoon characters, zodiac signs and even political party icons. Go wild and play with the many possible combinations. Jibbitz pop in and out of the holes of your Crocs easily, so you can decorate your Crocs to match your mood.




Step
3



Pull out the paint. All you need is a little acrylic paint and you can create custom Crocs that really make a statement. Paint any design that you want, wait for it to dry and show off your shoe art to the rest of the world.




Step
4



Experiment with different styles of Crocs for different looks.







Tips & Warnings









Help
children
express their creativity by designing their very own Croc designs.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2063506_decorate-crocs.html

How to Decorate Converse Sneakers

How to Decorate Converse Sneakers



Decorate your Converse sneakers to showcase your individuality, fashion sense and artistic ability. Use markers, paints, decals and accents to take a pair of Chuck Taylors from plain to ultra-cool.







Things You'll Need:





Pair of Converse sneakers



Shoelaces



Charms



Jump rings



Fabric markers or paints



Decorative trim



Safety pins



Iron-on patches



Iron



Rhinestones and studs



Wooden stick









Step
1



Buy a pair of canvas Converse shoes in whatever style or color you desire. High-tops will give you more room to get creative, however.




Step
2



Replace the original laces with printed versions or plain ones in eye-catching colors. Hang charms from the bow with metal jump rings.




Step
3



Design a motif, write a favorite phrase or add a slew of doodles to the canvas with vibrant fabric paints or fabric markers. Decorate with permanent pens if you'd like to draw on the rubber toe guard in front.




Step
4



Use safety pins or hand stitching to adhere ribbon, fringe, lace or beaded string around the top of each shoe.




Step
5



Affix small iron-on patches to the sides, taking care not to burn your fingers in the process.




Step
6



Increase the glitz with self-adhesive rhinestones, faux gems or pronged metal studs (found in the sewing department of crafts stores). Simply press the studs into the canvas and use a wooden stick to bend the prongs closed from inside the shoe.







Tips & Warnings









Most decorating techniques will render the shoes unsuitable for machine washing. If necessary, spot clean or buy a new pair if they've become unsanitary or damaged beyond repair.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2222467_decorate-converse-sneakers.html

How to Decorate a Pair of Shorts

How to Decorate a Pair of Shorts



Nothing expresses your unique personality more than decorating your own clothing. If you have a pair of shorts you want to jazz up with some personal flair, you have plenty of options. You can do anything from adding bleach splotches to gluing or sewing on decorative patches. In fact, the ways you can decorate your shorts are limited only by your imagination.







Things You'll Need:





Glitter beads



Fabric glue



Permanent markers or fabric paint



Bleach



Appliques









Step
1



Add some patches to add to your shorts. You might go to your local culture shop to find patches of your favorite rock bands, social causes or recreational activities. Generate ideas by making a list of things you like enough that you'd want to broadcast them to the world by wearing them on your clothes.




Step
2



Get some glitter beads, figure out a design that you want to arrange them in and use fabric glue to attach them, one by one, to your shorts. You might want to decorate your shorts with glitter beads in a random pattern or personalize your shorts by using them to spell out your initials or first name.




Step
3



Use fabric paint or permanent colored markers to write your own personal messages on your pair of shorts. Write social messages or something just for fun, depending on how serious you want your shorts to be taken.




Step
4



Add some character to your shorts by adding spatters of bleach to the legs on the front, back, or both. You can create a controlled pattern or use a brush to fling the bleach in a random pattern across your shorts. You should put them through the wash and see the results when the cycle has finished running.




Step
5



Add appliques to your shorts. You can place strips of leather, rope or cord, fake pieces of gold or silver or just about anything else you can think of on your shorts. You can use fabric glue to hold your appliques in place, though you should be mindful of the possibility of damaging your washing machine or the appliques themselves when you run your shorts through the machine.







Tips & Warnings









Create a sketch of your vision for your finished shorts before you begin to decorate them. That will help you keep your ideas straight and ensure that you don't forget to add any extra touches.








If you want to add patches or appliques, but you don't have a sewing machine, affix them to your shorts using fabric glue instead.








Remember that using permanent markers, fabric paint or bleach will permanently alter your shorts. Take care that you use these products only if you're certain you want to, since you may ruin your favorite pair of shorts forever.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2214913_decorate-pair-shorts.html