How to Study Chinese Herbs

How to Study Chinese Herbs



Any herb which originated in China is considered a Chinese herb. For centuries,
Chinese herbs
have been used to treat a variety of disorders like depression, infection, heart conditions, viruses and even sexually transmitted diseases. There are many ways in which Chinese herbs can be used. Many are suitable for cooking and may be ingested in food, a practice which is extremely common in China. There are also numerous tablets full of Chinese medicinal herbs, which can be purchased at most grocery stores and health food markets. The most popular way use Chinese herbs, however, is in homemade teas. The herbs are usually boiled or simmered in 6 ounces of water and then immediately transferred to a cup, without draining. Teas made from Chinese herbs are generally mild and can be enjoyed several times a day. Follow these steps to learn more.







Things You'll Need:





Money




Reference books




Computer with Internet access







Study Chinese Herbs




1


Pick up a book on Chinese herbs for self-study at home. Try "A Handbook of Chinese Healing Herbs" and "The Way of Chinese Herbs" (see Resources below).





2


Research Chinese herbs on the Internet. There are numerous Web sites, like the "Complementary and Alternative Healing University" (see Resources below), that are full of important information. You may even come across instructions for how to grow your own herbs or recipes that feature Chinese herbs.





3


Sign up for a community class with a professional herbologist. More and more cities are including Chinese herb classes as a part of community enrichment courses.





4


Enroll in a Chinese herb course at your local university. With alternative medicine subjects becoming increasingly popular, many colleges and universities now offer courses specifically about Chinese herbs.








Tips & Warnings










Most schools charge a fee to take courses on Chinese herbs. This fee can range from inexpensive to pricey, depending on the institution. Likewise, many community programs charge a nominal fee to register for courses.








Chinese herbs aren't meant to be a substitute for a physician's care, especially in a life-threatening emergency. Should you experience dangerous symptoms, like breathing difficulties, loss of vision, severe pain, sudden bleeding or chest pains, stop using Chinese herbs immediately and consult your doctor.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033005_study-chinese-herbs.html

How to Recover Faster From Surgery With Alternative Therapy

How to Recover Faster From Surgery With Alternative Therapy



There's no doubt that surgery can be stressful. Of course, all patients hope for a speedy recovery. There are a few alternative medicine techniques that can assist in the healing process. Alternative medicine includes any practice that's used outside of conventional medicine. Rather than go against the grain of conventional medicine, however, many alternative therapies are designed to work with conventional techniques. Certain therapies, like autosuggestion (self-hypnosis) and vitamin therapy, may help speed up the healing process when used in conjunction with post-surgery medications and cleansers. Autosuggestion is the act of programming the brain and the body to believe something specific, like a successful recovery from surgery. Vitamin therapy, on the other hand, involves increasing the normal intake of vitamins to combat deficiency and assist the body with natural processes. Follow these steps to learn more.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




Vitamin supplements







Recover Faster From Surgery With Autosuggestion




1


Look for a comfortable, quiet location where you won't experience any interruptions or distractions.





2


Try to clear your mind of all thoughts. This will be difficult at first. It will get easier with practice. When thoughts do enter your mind, take a minute to acknowledge them. Let them pass.





3


Focus on the tense points in your body. You'll need to know exactly where you're carrying tension and stress in order to make yourself fully relaxed.





4


Take deep breaths to focus on releasing the tension in your identified places. As you inhale, imagine a bright light filled with energy, or life force.





5


Count backwards from 10 when you feel truly relaxed. It may help for you to imagine each number in your head as you're counting.





6


Create a positive statement about your upcoming or recent surgery. Your statement can be just about anything, as long as it has to do with a positive aspect of your speedy recovery.





7


Repeat your statement several times until you feel your mind responding to this suggestion.





8


Count from 0 to 10. Give yourself a moment to adjust to normal consciousness.





9


Get more information about autosuggestion and healing at the "Hypnosis Network" Web site (see Resources below).



Use Vitamin Therapy to Recover Faster from Surgery




1


Take vitamin A supplements. Vitamin A is known for boosting the immune system, which can help ward off infection after your surgery. Furthermore, vitamin A encourages new cell growth, which is essential for a rapid recovery.





2


Increase your vitamin C intake both before and after surgery. Some medical practitioners believe that vitamin C can boost your body's immune function and help it heal.





3


Add an extra dose of vitamin E as you recover from your surgery. Vitamin E is known for promoting healthy skin and hair growth; so it can help heal your wound faster.





4


Learn more about vitamin therapy and healing at the "Orthomolecular Medicine" Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Vitamins supplements are normally inexpensive. They can be purchased at most major stores and health food markets.








Before using vitamins after surgery, consult with your doctor to make sure they don't interfere with any medications you may be taking.








Alternative therapy should not be used in place of conventional medicine in life-threatening situations. If you experience serious symptoms--like high fever, surgery site infection, loss of consciousness or vision problems--consult with your doctor immediately.








Consult MayoClinic.com to learn how educate yourself about alternative medicine claims (see Resources below). Learn how to assess those claims before you make your treatment decision.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2032999_recover-faster-surgery.html

How to Properly Break a Fast

How to Properly Break a Fast



Fasting involves the restriction or elimination of food intake for a period of time. Properly breaking a fast means resuming normal eating patterns. How you start eating again can be as important as the fast itself. Most people find that it can take some time before their bodies are able to completely re-adjust to eating regularly. Follow these steps to learn how to break a fast properly.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




Cherries, grapes, prunes or sauerkraut




L-acidophilus supplements




Distilled or purified water







Decide If You've Accomplished Your Goals by Fasting




1


Define the reasons to break the fast, whether it's because you're feeling that you have accomplished your health goals, have completed the specified time period or whether you're experiencing too many side effects. Often your own body will tell you when to quit because you no longer have any energy reserves, or severe hunger pangs will return.





2


Consider switching to a juice fast before eating solid food again if you've been on a long water fast. Consult fasting resources such as Dr. Ben Kim's Web site (see Resources below) for information on the best way to break a fast.



Properly Break Your Fast




1


Make your transition back to food very gradually. Take about half the time you spent on the fast to return to your normal eating habits. Start with juices and broths.





2


Considering taking L-Acidophilus supplements to return the normal balance of bacteria and enzymes to your digestive tract. They're usually quite inexpensive.





3


Continue drinking plenty of distilled or purified water during the transition period, at least 7 to 10 glasses, each 8 oz., per day.





4


Choose foods with laxative effects for your first solid meal, such as cherries, grapes or prunes. Sauerkraut is also useful during this time. It helps restore the bacterial balance in your body.





5


Wait for a few hours after eating your first solid meal in order to ensure it will not make you sick. If all goes well, you can resume eating your normal, and hopefully healthy, diet soon. Remember to eat properly and nutritiously after breaking a fast to restore vitamins and minerals to your system.








Tips & Warnings










It is generally considered important to be under medical supervision during any prolonged fast, especially if you're being treated for specific medical conditions or if you're taking prescription drugs.








Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms from fasting, like fainting and gastrointestinal pain, become too severe.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2032965_properly-break-fast.html

How to Promote Self Healing With Holistic Medicine

How to Promote Self Healing With Holistic Medicine



If you're faced with a chronic illness like colitis, fibromyalgia or Crohn's disease, you could look to a holistic medicine for help. Holistic medicine incorporates the mind and the soul to help the body with any troubles. There a variety of holistic practices, including visualization, Reiki and Kundalini yoga. Reiki is a practice that involves a healer and healing energies, Kundalini yoga is a form of yoga that is practiced to activate the body's energy to promote self healing. Follow these steps to learn more.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




Access to classes in the techniques of your choice







Visualize a Healthy You




1


Read extensively on the power of self healing. You can start by reading an article on the 10 principles of self-healing at ImmuneSupport.com (see Resources below).





2


Stop all negative thoughts. This can be challenging, especially at the beginning. The more you practice, the better you'll become.





3


Rid yourself of stress and worries. Negative feelings may impair your ability to self heal.





4


Find a relaxing place to meditate. Take the time every day to reflect and concentrate on the good in your life.





5


Begin by being grateful for what you have. Even if you're sick, be thankful you're alive right now. Appreciate that you have this opportunity to move forward. A gratitude journal, in which you list 3 things every day that are good in your life, can be a powerful tool for self healing.





6


Close your eyes and envision yourself in a moment of happiness and health.





7


Sense every part of your body. Visualize your healthy self from inside and out.





8


Practice visualization in the morning before you start your day and at night before you go to sleep.



Explore the Benefits of Kundalini Yoga or Reiki




1


Find centers that offer Kundalini yoga and/or Reiki. The "Kundalini Yoga" Web site has links to more information about reiki, Kundalini yoga and other techniques for achieving self-empowerment (see Resources below).





2


Choose the practice that calls to you most. Kundalini is a physical self healing practice. Reiki employs a healer to promote self healing energies within you.





3


Find a center and take a class.








Tips & Warnings










Reiki and Kundalini classes are moderately priced.








Some centers offer multiple session packages that can be purchased to save you money.








Visualizing is a powerful tool used in the self healing process that involves vividly imaging the desired health outcome.








Don't ignore symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea or fever. Go directly to an emergency room for medical attention.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. If you decide to try holistic medicine, consult your primary health care provider. Keep your doctor informed about the holistic medical technique you undertake.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033025_promote-self-healing.html

How to Know What Foods to Avoid When on a Cleansing Diet

How to Know What Foods to Avoid When on a Cleansing Diet



Before you begin any cleansing diet that involves restricting your diet and taking herbal supplements, it's important to know which foods may completely undermine your health goals. These foods differ depending upon the cleansing diet you've chose. One may help a colon cleanse; but that same food or supplement might completely negate the effects of a liver cleanse. Follow these steps to find out what foods to avoid while on a cleansing diet.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Decide What Cleansing Diet is Right For You




1


Begin by learning more about cleansing diets in general. There are several different types, including Candida cleanses, colon cleanses and liver cleanses. Reviewing the different types at InternalCleansing.com (see Resources below) will help you find the cleansing routine that best suits both your needs and budget.





2


Take into account the practical considerations of going on a cleansing diet. Consider whether the side-effects of a particular cleansing diet plan may be too disruptive to your routine or cause you too much stress.





3


Be aware of any food allergies you might have. Don't undertake a cleansing diet that will aggravate any existing food allergies or medical conditions you have.





4


Investigate a particular type of cleansing diet more thoroughly online. Visit alive.com for information on colon cleansing diets (see Resources below).



Find Out What Foods to Avoid When on a Cleansing Diet




1


Avoid sugar, hydrogenated oils, alcohol, caffeine, processed foods, artificial colors and flavors, margarine, vegetable shortening, excessive saturated fat and carbohydrates when you go on any cleansing diet.





2


Also stay away from dairy products, wheat and gluten when you start a detox cleansing diet.





3


Know that fruits and all bread products containing yeast will negatively affect a Candida cleaning diet.





4


Eliminate all refined salt from your diet if you're doing a urinary tract cleansing diet. Unrefined ocean salt is recommended instead.








Tips & Warnings










Meet with your physician to discuss the various cleansing programs and to find out if changes in your diet might affect any sort of medical treatment you're currently undergoing.








Immediately discontinue any cleansing diet if you experience severe side effects like headaches, disorientation or gastrointestinal pain. Get medical help immediately.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2032963_what-foods-avoid.html

How to Develop a Unique Earring Collection

How to Develop a Unique Earring Collection



Sometimes it pays to go off the beaten path to develop a truly interesting earring collection. Here are some suggestions for building an earring collection that's strong on originality without spending a fortune:









Step
1



Visit a Craft Gallery

There's something special about a pair of artisan designed earrings. To know they were handcrafted with care by an artist rather than created on an assembly line in a factory gives them character. Many artisan designs are produced in limited quantity which makes them special. Don't be put off by the price points. If you truly love them and plan on wearing them frequently, they're worth the investment. Plus, you'll enjoy the compliments you receive as they dangle elegantly from your ears.




Step
2



Visit Antique Malls

If you haven't visited antique malls for jewelry in the past, you'll be overwhelmed by the selection. It would be easy to spend hours at some of the larger malls absorbing all of the interesting vintage earring designs from days gone by. You can find vintage earrings covering all price points from inexpensive selections to pricier ones made of precious metals. One thing you won't find are mass produced, cookie cutter earrings commonly seen in local department stores.




Step
3



Visit a Craft Gallery

There's something special about a pair of artisan designed earrings. To know they were handcrafted with care by an artist rather than created on an assembly line in a factory gives them character. Many artisan designs are produced in limited quantity which makes them special. Don't be put off by the price points. If you truly love them and plan on wearing them frequently, they're worth the investment. Plus, you'll enjoy the compliments you receive as they dangle elegantly from your ears.




Step
4



Make Your Own

You may be surprised at how easy it is to make your own earrings. It can be as simple as adding an interesting bead or two to a special wire called a head pin. Make a loop and add an earring hook to create a truly one-of-kind jewelry creation. Warning! Making your own earrings can be addictive. Spend a day at your local bead store discovering the possibilities. Most bead stores offer classes where you learn the basics of making your own earrings.




Step
5



Look Online

Visit craft galleries online to find unique earrings designs crafted by budding jewelry designers across the country. You can even sell your own creations here if you decide to turn the art of making your own earrings into a business.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2194443_develop-unique-earring-collection.html

How to Develop a Relationship With a Personal Shopper

How to Develop a Relationship With a Personal Shopper



Personal shoppers or stylists are professionals who work with clients to create a flattering look. A personal shopper walks you through your fashion choices and makes recommendations based on the latest styles and what she feels would look good on you. If you plan on working with a personal shopper, you should develop a good relationship with them.









Step
1



Keep all of your appointments with the personal shopper. The more often that you work with your personal shopper, the better your relationship will be. Late cancellations only cause strife in your relationship.




Step
2



Let her know your likes and dislikes. If you absolutely hate one of her fashion choices, let her know it. It is better to be vocal and give her an idea of what type of clothing you like.




Step
3



Be reasonable with your expectations. A personal shopper can't give you a total makeover. She only helps you with your shopping picks; what you do with her recommendations is up to you.




Step
4



Thank her for her services. If you are not paying her, it is a nice gesture to give a gift or another display of gratitude.




Step
5



Look for a new personal shopper if you are unable to develop a good relationship. If you feel that you are not meshing well with your personal shopper, request that a new one be assigned to you.







Tips & Warnings









You want a personal shopper who is honest but tactful. You won't have a good relationship with a personal shopper who insults your fashion choices.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2094029_develop-relationship-personal-shopper.html

How to Determine If Breast Reconstruction Is Right for You

How to Determine If Breast Reconstruction Is Right for You



If you're considering breast reconstruction surgery, get as much information as you can before you move forward. As you probably know, the procedure involves constructing a new breast using implants or tissue from your body, usually the stomach. Read on to determine if breast reconstruction is right for you.









Step
1



Discuss your case thoroughly with your surgeon. Talk about your medical history and tell him about your expectations.




Step
2



Ask questions. Find out what you should do to prepare for the surgery.




Step
3



Remember to talk about how your physical appearance will change once the surgery is complete.




Step
4



Take your time. Be sure you have enough time before and after the surgery for proper recovery.




Step
5



Visit blogs and personal Web sites of people who have undergone breast reconstruction surgery. It might be helpful to communicate with others who've gone through the surgery.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2032242_breast-reconstruction.html

How to Determine Fit for Older Women

How to Determine Fit for Older Women



In addition to concerns about style, older women must look for clothes that fit their changing body type. Older women must accommodate changes in their stature and posture that affect clothing fit, including weight changes, reduced height, back curvature and sloping shoulders.









Step
1



Choose clothes in your regular size. Many women make the common mistake of trying to hide figure flaws by purchasing clothes in the next size up. These baggy and ill-fitting clothes draw attention to flaws rather than disguise them.




Step
2



Compensate for a decrease in height as you age. Older women typically lose between one to three inches from their stature after menopause, which means that a favorite pair of slacks could require an alteration at the tailor's shop.




Step
3



Opt for shoulder pads to add shape to sloping shoulders. Women need not revisit the boxy silhouette of the 1980s, but small shoulder pads add structure and shape to blouses and jackets.




Step
4



Purchase pants that rise slightly above the natural waistline. Senior women often develop a layer of subcutaneous fat around the waistline resistant to diet and exercise. Pants that sit on the waistline are uncomfortable and emphasize abdominal fat.




Step
5



Buy clothes with some elasticity in the fabric, yet not so much that the garment loses its shape. A polyester or acrylic blend lends elasticity, yet still drapes naturally on a mature figure.




Step
6



Consider dresses without a constructed waistline to provide freedom of movement and fit that adjusts to weight changes. You can purchase a flowing dress made from jersey for daywear or an A-line dress made from crisp cotton for a formal look.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2215486_determine-fit-older-women.html

How to Determine Cross Dressing Shoe Size

How to Determine Cross Dressing Shoe Size



When buying shoes it is always best to try them on and walk around a bit. Getting the most comfortable pair of pumps can be a problem if you can't try them on in the store. There are some simple ways to calculate your shoe size right at home.







Things You'll Need:





Measuring tape



Paper



Pen or pencil









Step
1



Convert male to female shoe size by adding two shoe sizes. For example, if you're a size 8D in a man's shoe, try a size 10M in a woman's.




Step
2



Measure the length of your foot while you are standing. Use the chart in Step 5 to convert to shoe size.




Step
3



Move the tape measure to widest part of your foot and measure across the width of the foot. Use the chart in Step 5 to find the width.




Step
4



Measure the other foot in the same way to make certain that both feet are the same size. Frequently one foot will be bigger than the other. In that case always buy the size for the biggest foot. It is far easier to add an insert than to walk with an uncomfortably tight shoe.




Step
5



Compare the charts below to your measurements to get your accurate shoe size.







Tips & Warnings









If your foot is close to the next measurement and you are buying a very high heel, you may want to go to the next higher size.








If you are buying shoes with pointed toes, try going either slightly larger on the width or one size larger on the size.








Your foot also has a height. The style of shoe that is chosen and the height of your arch and the top of your foot may make a difference in how the shoe fits. Adjusting the width and size may be necessary.








All manufacturers will vary slightly from the charts. If you are unable to try the shoes on make certain that you can return them.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2078267_know-cross-dressers-shoe-size.html

How to Determine a Cross Dresser's Clothing Size

How to Determine a Cross Dresser's Clothing Size



A man's physique is different than a woman's, so it may be difficult to find women's clothing to fit. Taking accurate measurements and consulting clothing size charts can be helpful. However, clothing size varies with each clothing manufacturer. Until you're comfortable trying on women's clothing in a store, here are some tips to help you determine your size.









Step
1



Measure from shoulder to shoulder. Since a man's shoulders are usually wider than a woman's, you may have to buy a larger size

blouse


and have the waist taken in by a tailor.




Step
2



Check your waist measurement at naval level, not at the belt-line. Many women's pants are made to fit a smaller waist and rounder hips. You may need to buy a larger size and have them tailored to fit around your waist and hips in order to have them hang properly.




Step
3



Consider your height and weight, and look at a clothing size chart. Most Internet clothing shops have charts to give you a good idea of a range of sizes you may be able to wear.




Step
4



Visit a used clothing store or a thrift shop to purchase several pieces in the size range you've determined will fit, and take them home to try them on. This will give you a sense of what fits without spending a lot of money.




Step
5



Check out online clothing stores that specialize in transgendered clothing, such as Janet's Closet.







Tips & Warnings









You could always have your clothing custom tailored or buy it and have it altered.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2078260_know-cross-dressers-clothing-sizes.html

How to Destroy Jeans

How to Destroy Jeans



Those beat up jeans in the store may look great to you but they're way too expensive for denim that already has holes in it! Check out how to get the destroyed denim look for your old jeans and save yourself some cash.







Things You'll Need:





Sandpaper



Nail file



Scissors



Bleach



Spray bottle



Washing machine and detergent



Paint



Clothes line or laundry rack



Old clothes and towels







How to Destroy Jeans




Step
1



Start with an old pair of jeans. They must be standard denim jeans, not the type with lycra or spandex in them for stretch.




Step
2



Beat up your jeans, specifically where wear would occur naturally. That means you want to shred up the knees, the bottom edges of the hem, and up towards the pockets. You can do this by taking a piece of sandpaper and sanding down the pants roughly. This will shred the denim a bit and wear away the dye.




Step
3



Add holes to the jeans, again, where wear would occur naturally. This might mean adding a hole to one knee using scissors. You can do this by using one side of the scissors to drive through the front of the denim and then cutting across.




Step
4



Fray the holes so that they look natural. You can fray these by again using sandpaper or, for a gentle fraying, a rough nail file.




Step
5



Bleach on your jeans--sounds funny when you're usually avoiding getting bleach on them! Pour bleach into a spray bottle. Hang your jeans up on a clothesline or lay them over the edge of your washer. This next part is a bit messy: You'll want to place an old towel underneath your workspace and wear old clothes while you're doing this. Once this is done, turn the spray bottle on mist and gently mist the spots on the jeans where you want fading and bleach spots. Concentrate on a few small areas and don't overdo it!




Step
6



Immediately throw your jeans in the wash and wash them with detergent. This will prevent the bleach from spreading too far out. Dry as usual.




Step
7



Splatter a few different colors of paint on your jeans. This should look like you were painting your house and you accidentally splattered some on you-- not as if you brushed it on.







Tips & Warnings









Use your creativity! If you don't want to practice on your jeans, use an old t-shirt as a guinea pig.








The pockets are an especially fun part of the jeans to detail. Use extra fraying here or partially tear a pocket.








It may help to put the jeans on and lightly mark with a pencil the areas you would like to focus on. The front and backs of the knees are areas where this may pose especially helpful.








Remember that all of these steps are irreversible so, once you make a change, it's there to stay. You may want to use gloves when handling bleach.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2288713_destroy-jeans.html

How to Design Your Own Dress Online

How to Design Your Own Dress Online



If you have spent hours and hours shopping for the perfect dress and still haven't found what you are looking for, you should consider designing your own dress online. There are several websites that offer users the opportunity to design or fine tune their dress online. The Coco Myles Website is the most thorough of dress design sites. The other sites require phone conversations and a bit of a learning curve to use them properly. Here are the steps you can take to design your own dress online.







Things You'll Need:





Computer



Internet connection



Body measuring tape









Step
1



Got to Cocomyles.com, where you will find the introduction page. You can choose "Customize Celebrity Dresses," "Start Your Own Design," or in the center, "Click to begin," which also takes you the "Start Your Own Design" page.




Step
2



Choose the top portion of your dress. There are several options to choose from, such as halter top, strapless, boat neck and any variation of sleeve length.




Step
3



Choose the bottom portion of your dress. You can choose from A-line, straight, ball gown and asymmetrical, plus tea length and full-length skirts.




Step
4



Choose your dress fabric. Your choices are charmeuse, georgette and satin. These choices of fabric will affect the way the dress flows, as well as your color choices. Charmeuse fabric is lightweight with a satin feel. Georgette fabric is a lightweight fabric that is usually made of polyester. This fabric flows well and is somewhat sheer. Satin fabric is heavier than the others, with a sheen surface.




Step
5



This website also gives you the option of adding beading to your dress. The beading is completed on one of three patterns: waterfall, royalty and pearl ivy. You can also choose to have no beading at all. These patterns range from subtle to quite impressive.




Step
6



Choose the color you want your dress to be. Try a few different colors to make sure you select the best option for your dress.




Step
7



Choose accessories for your dress. You have an option of adding a sash, shawl and/or bows to the dress. (Bows are not available for all styles).




Step
8



Finalize your dress design and pay for it. Most combinations cost no more than $200.







Tips & Warnings









Remember to check your body measurements against the dress size. These dresses are still in standard (and not custom) sizes.








Some of the other sites with a "design your own dress" feature are PeachBeserk.com and styleshake.com, which is a European website. There are also several wedding dress websites that allow you to design your own dress.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2290614_design-own-dress-online.html

How to Design Your Own Clothes

How to Design Your Own Clothes



Many women enjoy fashion. But the best way to demonstrate self-expression is to design some of your own clothes. It can be lots of fun and possibly profitable. If you are a fairly good seamstress and can draw fairly well, you might be in luck. Read on to learn how to design your own clothes.









Step
1



The best thing to do to start off is to put some of your ideas on paper. In this way, you are establishing some of your thoughts. Take a pencil and paper and illustrate some of your clothing ideas. If you are not a great artist, try drawing individual pieces of clothing. Such items are fairly simple to illustrate and will give you a good idea if there is potential to mix and match your pieces. Your intial drawings show where your heart is at as far as clothing creation.




Step
2



The next thing to consider is your market and how your clothing will fit in with today's styles. Remember that many good stylists and designers initially had excellent ideas; however, their styles were not yet appropriate for the current time. The general public will not "shake off" true talent. One way or another, a good design will come to the forefront. The main thing is you must believe in your design. There have been many prominent designers in fashion and jewelry who have attempted to introduce their lines to the public and were met with less than enthusiastic results. However, as the times changed, re-introduction of the line was accomplished and later successful. So be aware of timing. Additionally, there still may be a niche market for your current designs. Research the Internet and find out what other independent designers are offering and to whom.




Step
3



Continue to think and develop good ideas. Borrow designs from other eras. Research other eras and see what was offered. Many of the styles may be easy to create and fun to wear. I found an abundant supply of fashion magazines from the sixties and seventies at a thrift store. I perused through these periodicals and came up with some good ideas and incorporated era style with some of my own clothes. Even if you do not use any of the era styles, it will certainly get your imagination rolling.




Step
4



Scan hospital guild thrift stores for earlier period patterns. These patterns may be purchased very inexpensively and modified according to your design and size. If you are experimenting in creating a certain design it makes sense to have a template that is not expensive.




Step
5



Re-style your own clothes. For instance, if a dress is too long, cut off the bottom and hem it, and accessorize it. Use the material remnants to make belts and scarves. You may also purchase complementary accessories at discounters and dollar stores.




Step
6



Try adding embelishments to plain T-shirts or tanks. Here is a way to be expressive and creative without spending a great deal of money. You may use "Bernat boa" which is normally used in knitting; however, may also be used as an embellishment. This item can be found at sewing and craft stores. Sew this around the neck or make two separate rows of it, running it down the length of the T-shirt. Know that buttons, material remnants and so forth may be used for other design ideas. T-shirts that have been newly designed, may be successfully paired with new as well as older-style garments.




Step
7



When designing garments be aware of how you intend on accessorizing the garment. If it is a dress, hoisery is important. If you are in a colder climate, consider accessorizing 'era' looks with tights and boots. Keep accessories to a minimum and complementary to the look you are attempting to achieve.




Step
8



Research independent designers online. Do this to get an idea of how such designers are marketing their products. Also, note the products they are offering.




Step
9



Set up your own independent website with items you have constructed. Offer initially to custom design items adhering to the customer's size and tastes based upon your designs.




Step
10



Try diversification in marketing your designs. Find a line of handbags you like and/or jewelry line and offer your design services in addition to selling the handbags and/or jewelry lines. There are many wholesalers who offer a nice variety of accessories.




Step
11



Spread the word. Tell individuals within your community about your design service and direct them to your website.




Step
12



Wear your designs and carry accessories from the lines you represent. Not only must you design your product, you must have the confidence to endorse it.




Step
13



Most importantly, have fun with what you do. If you are confident enough and talented, the right market will eventually come to you.







Tips & Warnings









Do not redo dresses of well-known designers.








Additionally, do not attempt to just hem an ankle length dress from a familiar brand of apparel for a particular decade. This is a dead giveaway. You are just hemming outdated garments. These items may be put to better use in the recycle bin or in the construction of quilts.








When retiring an older item of clothing, remove the buttons. The buttons can be used as embellishment or for function when re-designing other items of clothing.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2161813_design-own-clothes.html

How to Clean Emerald Jewelry

How to Clean Emerald Jewelry



Emeralds are hard stones that complement any type of jewelry with their brilliant green color. The emerald is the birthstone of May and was used in ancient times to promote healing. If you own any emerald jewelry, you need to know the basics of cleaning it.









Step
1



Polish the emerald jewelry with a soft cloth for several minutes. This removes any build up of oils and dirt.




Step
2



Fill a bowl with mild soap and lukewarm water. This is the safest way to clean jewelry since if you wash smaller pieces over the sink, they may fall down the drain.




Step
3



Scrub the jewelry with a soft toothbrush. Clean all parts of the jewelry, including the hard to reach prong area. A soft jewelry brush can be used as well.




Step
4



Rinse with clean lukewarm water. You should fill another bowl with water and submerge the jewelry in it. Check to make sure that there is no soap residue left.




Step
5



Pat the jewelry dry with a clean soft towel. Once you are finished, you can store the jewelry in a dry place or wear it again.




Step
6



Ask your jeweler for a professional cleaning. Every few months, you should also take the emerald jewelry in to be cleaned by your jewelry retailer.







Tips & Warnings









Do not clean emerald jewelry with an ultrasonic cleaner. Emeralds are often treated with oils and this type of cleaning will remove the oils.








Do not use commercial jewelry cleaners on emeralds. These can cause damage to the stones.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2057726_clean-emerald-jewelry.html

How to Clean Diamonds

How to Clean Diamonds



If diamonds are your best friends, treat them accordingly. Regular cleaning will keep your jewels sparkling.







Things You'll Need:





Dishwashing Liquid



Dishwashing Liquid



Toothbrushes



Small Bowls



Paper Towels



Paper Towels



Paper towels







Soapy Solution




Step
1



Take a small bowl and mix a small amount of mild dish detergent with warm water until sudsy.




Step
2



Dip the item to be cleaned into the solution.




Step
3



Dip a soft toothbrush into the cleaning solution, and gently brush the item.




Step
4



Rinse in warm running water.




Step
5



Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.


Ammonia Solution




Step
1



Take a small bowl and mix a solution of 6 parts water to 1 part ammonia.




Step
2



Dip the item to be cleaned into the solution.




Step
3



Dip a soft toothbrush into the cleaning solution, and gently brush the item.




Step
4



Pay special attention to the backs of stones and their mountings, areas that tend to collect dirt and oils.




Step
5



Rinse in warm running water.




Step
6



Pat dry with a soft lint-free cloth.







Tips & Warnings









For especially soiled diamonds, mix a solution of half cold water and half ammonia in a small bowl. Let the item soak in the solution for 30 minutes, then gently brush the item with a soft toothbrush. Rinse in warm running water and allow the item to air dry on paper towels.








Be sure to use the ammonia and ammonia-water solution only in a well-ventilated area, and avoid inhaling the ammonia solution directly.



http://www.ehow.com/how_3177_clean-diamonds.html