Tip for loud baby toys

This little key chain toy is a favorite of both Gavin and Elizabeth. 

It has multiple buttons that make 5 different car noises. 

But it is a loud toy. 

I don't like loud things and I don't think the loud noises are good for little ears. 



 

Nina suggested I cover the speaker with masking tape.
I put several layers over it. 
The toy still plays but is a very low sound level now. 
Still fun but much better for all of us!



Sewing a new cash spending billfold

I sewed a cash spending envelope system about 2 years ago and have been using it ever since.  It worked pretty good but had a couple of flaws and was also getting worn from so much use. 

you can see it here and read a little about my method.

my first cash spending system on my old blog

I wanted a new one and searched for some tutorials.  I did not ever find one exactly like I wanted but I did like this one

my inspiration is from this tutorial

Except hers is made from oilcloth. I like oilcloth but I tried  to buy some in my town a few months ago and no store here carries it. 

I used that tutorial, but for fabric.  So I added a 1/2 inch for seam allowances to all the pieces,  added some batting to the base and back pockets for a little stability and used less pockets. 

Since I am trying to use-down my craft supplies,  I made this strictly from supplies on hand too. 

a little larger than a regular wallet or billfold
but I think this size and number of pockets will suit me.

to make the labels,  I just used some bias tape and rubber stamps,
 then I machine-sewed on the labels.

I put my rewards cards in the front pocket.
Change is in it's own pocket and the only one with a zipper. 
On the oilcloth tutorial,  she used zippers on 6 pockets,  but I did not need that many pockets. And the pockets that hold paper money and receipts are deep enough that I don't think mine will require zippers to be secure. 

the back has a pocket for my checkbook. 
The checkbook cover already has a spot for my license, insurance cards and money cards
so I did not make special pockets for them on this wallet.

It may seem silly to mainly use cash for spending and then to also carry credit cards and a checkbook but this system works for me.

If you have any questions,  I will be happy to try to answer them
but I don't have any plans to do a real tutorial.