ML Interest Tag: copper

Mattel Releases New “Star Wars” Themed Collector Barbie Dolls

by Jennifer Swartvagher

Barbie has teamed up with Star Wars on its latest collaboration paying homage to Star Wars, by putting a high-fashion twist on iconic characters. Last year, Mattel introduced a line of Star Wars x Barbie dolls inspired by Princess Leia, Darth Vader and R2-D2. This year, they have unveiled additional dolls inspired by Chewbacca, C-3PO, Rey and Stormtrooper characters.

Star Wars X Barbie

Star Wars Rey x Barbie Doll

Available at Amazon.com, Barbie.com and approved specialty retailers for $100

  •       The Star Wars Rey x Barbie takes design inspiration from Rey’s legendary look to capture her adventurous spirit in a runway-ready silhouette.
  •       Star Wars Rey x Barbie doll wears a crystal pleated chiffon gown with a crossover neckline and draped hood, inspired by Rey’s gauzy crosspiece.
  •       A slit reveals ombre boot-leggings in gold and copper hues, and accessories with a hammered gold look complete her heroic ensemble.

 

Star Wars Stormtrooper x Barbie Doll 

Available at Amazon.com, Barbie.com and approved specialty retailers for $100

  •       The Star Wars Stormtrooper x Barbie takes design inspiration from their legendary look to capture their plastoid armor in a runway-ready silhouette.
  •       Star Wars Stormtrooper x Barbie is striking in head-to-toe white over a black bodysuit with a shiny patent-leather look. A platinum bob, dark glasses, cuffs, a utility belt and boots with a knee protector plate detail complete the battle armor-inspired look.

 

Star Wars C-3PO x Barbie Doll 

Available at Amazon.com, Barbie.com and approved specialty retailers for $100

  •       The Star Wars C-3PO x Barbie® doll takes design inspiration from C-3PO’s legendary look to capture his golden armor in a runway-ready silhouette.
  •       Star Wars C-3PO x Barbie shines in a head-to-toe liquid gold look with accents of sheer organza and golden sequins. Polished details include a golden collar, bangles     , C-3PO-inspired glasses and a brilliant cincture echoing the droid’s primary power coupler outlet.

 

Star Wars Chewbacca x Barbie Doll 

Available at Amazon.com, Barbie.com and approved specialty retailers for $150

  •       The Star Wars Chewbacca x Barbie takes design inspiration from Chewie’s legendary look, bringing a glamorous edge to signature costume elements.
  •       Star Wars Chewbacca x Barbie wears a lavish faux fur coat over a strapless dress with a fur skirt and bodice of vinyl and sheer organza.
  •       Chic details include a furry headband and knee-high boots, as well as cuff bracelets and a handbag inspired by Chewbacca’s signature bandolier and satchel.   

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Mattel

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Last-Minute Earth Day Crafts & Activities for LA Kids

by Shannan Rouss

Oh, hey, it’s Earth Day on Apr. 22. If the occasion somehow fell off your radar (same), not to worry. Celebrate all things nature, upcycled and repurposed with these fun and easy projects from our favorite LA museums and kids art studios.

Chalk Branches

Courtesy of Meri Cherry Art Studio in Encino, this craft project is ideal for little ones. "When they dip the chalk in water it becomes like paint and they can scrape it down to the nub on the branches. Super sensory, super satisfying," writes Meri Cherry (yep, that's the studio founder's real name, too) in her Instagram post.  

Hammered Flowers

LA's Craft Contemporary museum shared this fun project, ideal for all ages. Kids can collect petals and leaves on a nature walk and then use their toy toolbox hammers to make art. See the full Instagram tutorial here. 

Bubble Wrap Prints

Also from Craft Contemporary, here's a creative way to upcycle the bubble wrap in all those deliveries you've been receiving while stuck at home. Watch the video tutorial.

Upcycled Treasure Box

reDiscover Center via Youtube

Culver City's reDiscover Center specializes in making with sustainable, upcycled materials. In addition to offering virtual tinkering classes, they're also sharing ideas on Youtube, like how to make this nifty treasure box. 

Egg Carton Flowers

Also from Meri Cherry, these springtime buds are made from cardboard egg cartons. See the Instagram video tutorial here.

Mini Playground

What kid doesn't love miniature everything? With this project from Cr8 Art Studio in North Hollywood, little ones can craft their own pint-sized playground using cardboard boxes, a paper towel roll and more. 

Wall Tapestry with Repurposed Materials

The Broad via Youtube

Tune into The Broad's weekly family art projects for ideas like this one, inspired by the works of Nigeria-based artist El Anatsui, who creates oversized tapestries from re-purposed materials including bottle caps, packaging and copper wire.

Cardboard Birdhouse

Pasadena's Kisapace Children's Museum is sharing daily at-home projects, like this DIY birdhouse plus tips on what to serve birds if you're short on seed. 

–Shannan Rouss

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New & Cool Products, Gadgets & Gear Our Editors Are Coveting this Fall

by Erin Lem

New seasons mean new and cool products in the parenting world. From the perfect gift you’ll want to snag for holiday gifting to gear you need for yourself, read on for 12 new and cool gadgets, products and apparel our editors are coveting right now. 

Hatch Rest+

Hatch Rest

If you love products that have multiple functionalities and will grow with your kids, get ready to be wowed by the new Hatch Rest+. This new product boasts features you already love about Rest (think sound machine, night light and time-to-rise) but is suped up with added elements like an LED clock, rechargeable battery when the power goes out, hands-free Alexa voice control, WiFi and wait for it...a two-way audio baby monitor. Whether you’re in the midnight feeding stage or the “please stay in your bedroom until 7 a.m.” big kid phase, Hatch Rest+ has you covered. Available at hatchbaby.com (starts shipping Oct. 15, 2019).

The Honest Company Soothing Therapy Collection

The Honest Company

For eczema-prone skin, finding the right skincare solution is like playing a game of musical chairs. Try this, then try that and hope it works. Honest’s new Soothing Therapy Collection is here to help. The body wash and eczema soothing balm—both genetle enough for eczema-prone skin—features prebiotics, naturally-derived colloidal oatmeal and is made without parabens, silicones, petrolatum and mineral oil. Available at amazon.com.

Mayde Towels, Blankets & Throws

Mayde

Compliment your perfect fall picnic with a Mayde towel. This Australia-based brand features hand-loomed beach towels, home towels and throws. Soft, machine washable and oh-so-cozy, keep these in your car to grab for on-the-go adventures. Gets yours at maydestore.com.

 

Comotomo Baby Bottle Bundle

Comotomo

With its soft, silicone nipples and squeezable body that’s easy for baby to hold, Comotomo bottle line has become a fan favorite of moms and babies. We love that they’re made from 100% safe hygienic silicone and is BPA-, PVC- and phthalate-free. Plus, they’re uber easy to clean. Now, you can buy or gift these favorite bottles with Comotomo’s new bundle set that includes two 5 oz. bottles, two 8 oz. bottles, a package of two slow flow nipples (0-3 months), a package of two medium flow nipple s(3-6 months) and a package of two fast flow nipples (6+ months). With this bundle set, you’ll have every bottle on-hand you’ll need to get through baby’s first year and beyond. Available at amazon.com.

 

Lark Adventurewear Pajama Sets

Lark Adventurewear

While we’re partial to Lark Adventurewear footies, their just-released two-piece pajama sets has us jumping for joy. Featuring their signature breathable, UPF 50 bamboo knit (this material is some of the most soft and durable we’ve found), this new style will convert you into a Lark superfan in no time. Available at larkadventurewear.com.

Copper Pearl Nursery Line

Copper Pearl

Send baby off to dreamland on Copper Pearl’s new nursery line that features fitted crib sheets and changing pad covers. The lightweight and breathable cotton sheets and pad covers boast Copper Pearl’s signature on-trend designs and styles that’ll suit any nursery. Available at copperpearl.com.

 

 

TW Luxury Insulated Tote in Cognac (Limited Edition)

TW Tote

When the weather turns chilly you want warm foods for lunch and an insulated tote will help you do that, in style. This one screams more "mom on the go" than "lunchbox" and has an insulated both a hot and cold section to allow you to bring along both. Made of vegan "leather" in a fall-centric cognac color with a bright red interior, it's chic and functional. We think it makes a great tote for carrying pumped milk in style, too. Get it at twtote.com

Zutano Fleece Hoodie

Zutano

This fall Zutano is expanding their line of baby and kids apparel with their brand-new fleece hoodies. Machine washable, these cozy hoodies range in sizes 6 months to 24 months, and in colors that include grey, baby pink, heather grey and true navy. Available at zutano.com.

 

Goat Milk Beauty Balm

Dionis Skin Care

You're busy. Like, really busy. And as we approach holiday season that's not about to change. You need Dionis' Goat Milk Beauty Balm. This simple little stick is your new bestie: use it to soothe under eye circles, polish your cheeks, banish shredded cuticles and tame flyaways. No, really! It works great, smells amazing, and is in a stick form so it won't spill/smear all over your bag. It's pretty compact, too (smaller than a travel deodorant) so keep it on hand all winter long to spot treat dry areas and just make you feel good. Get it here. 

Woodland Dreams Bedding Set from Rookie Humans

Rookie Humans

This dynamic bedding company is best known for their incredibly precious crib sheets, but this fall they debuted toddler and big-kid bedding we pretty much want for our own beds. We love the Woodland Dreams set for instant fall-like whimsy in a restful design. Your kiddo won't be able to resist getting cozy (and you might find yourself wanting to snuggle in, too). 

Shop them all at rookiehumans.com 

EZPZ x Peppa Pig Collection

EZPZ

Make mealtime even more fun with this new limited edition EZPZ x Peppa Pig Collection, which just debuted. Like other EZPZ placements, this silicone plate/placemat easily suctions to the table (no plates thrown on the floor here!), and is dishwasher safe and easy to travel with. Available at ezpzfun.com.

 

SkipHop Infant Feeding Products

SkipHop

Whether you're feeding your tot on-the-go or just starting solids, SkipHop has your back. Their brand-new line of infant feeding essentials include easy-feed spoons, easy-grab bowls, formula to food containers, easy-prep food press set (think making solid foods like avocado or steamed carrots mushy) and much more. Check out the entire line here. Bon appétit!

— Erin Lem & Amber Guetebier

 

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Up Your Baby Photo Game With 12 Instagram-Worthy Props

by Julie Seguss

Make sure your Instagram and Facebook photos are instant hits by arming yourself with some pro-style props. From sheepskin rugs to the sweetest bow ties, here are a few of our favorite items to make your baby photos stand out.

Get a baby milestone blanket

Copper Pearl

This darling milestone blanket from Copper Pearl makes for adorable monthly photos and is soft enough to use as a swaddle or receiving blanket. You'll just need something to highlight or encircle the correct month, like a picture frame, leaves, pompoms, floral wreath or ribbon. Pro tip: Copper Pearl sells top knot hats ($12.50) in a matching pattern for babies 0-4 months. Once baby has outgrown the hat, you can use it to indicate the correct month.

Available at copperpearl.com, $24.95.

Snuggle on a sheepskin rug

RebeccaVC1 via Flickr

Photographing your baby on a sheepskin rug instantly creates a classic, cozy shot you're sure to get comments on. There's no need to splurge on a large run; a 2 foot by 3 foot rug is big enough for your little babe. Post-photo, the rug becomes a soft spot for playtime.

Available at potterybarn.com, $99.

 

Dress up your girl in a headband

Skip the outfit and adorn your baby only in a sweet headband and bloomer set. Wait for your girl to take a snooze and then break out the camera!

Available at ellasbows.com, $23.95. You can also purchase the headband alone for $11.95.

Dress up your boy in a bowtie

Dress your newborn boy up like a little man for maximum cuteness. This soft and sweet handmade getup includes crocheted pants and suspenders in addition to the bowtie.

Available at etsy,com, $36.

Spread out a baby blanket

Sometimes all you need to take an image from amateur to pro is an eye-catching background. Pick a colorful blanket to lay your baby on, and just like that you've improved your picture. Baby Tula has 3-packs of super soft swaddles that offer both solid colors and a fun pattern. They're also great for wrapping and covering naked wee ones for sweet shots.

Available at babytula.com, $65 for set of 3.

Build your story with blocks

If you plan to take monthly snaps of your baby in the first year and beyond, this clever set of blocks makes it easy. It includes three blocks with the numbers 0 - 9, and these words: days weeks, months, and years. The blocks also look great on a bookshelf and are a tactile way to help baby learn letters.

Available at stickybellies.com, $16.

Make a blanket statement

Take a photo of your baby on one of Coveted Things' wordy swaddles. If the above phrase doesn't suit your style, pick a sweeter saying such as, "You are my greatest adventure," or "I love you to the moon and back."

Available at shop.projectnursery.com, $40.

Prop baby with a giant plush toy

Oversized plush toys not only make great nursery decorations, but they're also sweet props for pictures. Take photos with the stuffie monthly to see how your little one grows in relation to it. Of course, for safety, you should never leave your sleeping baby unattended with a plush toy or put it in the crib, but this elephant makes a fun friend to lean on at playtime.

Available at amazon.com, $20.99.

Personalize your photos with baby's monogram or name

Announce your newborn's name with a personalized hat and blanket set. This makes for a great announcement photo, and you can continue to use the blanket as a backdrop for monthly baby photos.

Available at etsy.com, $53.

Lay out a graphic playmat

Having a soft and comfy spot for playtime and tummy time is important for your baby anyway, so why not choose a graphic option like this black and white wonder. The simple color combo offers a striking backdrop for baby photos, or you can add a colorful blanket or rug underneath for even more contrast.

Available at Etsy store The Bears Design on etsy.com, $77.48.

Make a scene with wall decals

Removable wall stickers add a magical background to your baby photos. These decals come with individual pieces that can be repositioned to create a customized scene behind baby, and do double duty as nursery decor.

Available at amazon.com, $18.99.

Get creative with pillows

Prop up your baby for a photo on a clever pillow like this one. As with some of the other ideas mentioned, you can use the pillow as a size reference when you take monthly snapshots. And the pillow options are nearly endless, as you can find them in all sorts of shapes, sizes, patterns, colors and sayings.

Available at thedriftwoodhaus.com, $33.80.

Find more DIY newborn photography tip in our story here.

What’s your favorite baby photo that you’ve taken? Tell us about it in a comment.

–Julie Seguss

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Harry Potter Fans Can Now Spend the Night in Hagrid’s Hut

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Have you always dreamed of sipping tea and munching rock cakes in Hagrid’s Hut? Your wish is granted.

Now Harry Potter fans have the chance to spend a cozy night inside Hagrid’s rustic Hut––or rather, a replica of his magical home. The Groundskeeper’s Cottage, which is made to look like the moss-covered stone hut where Hagrid resides, is now open for booking in North Yorkshire, England.

Inside the hut things are a little different than Hagrid’s home, but you probably won’t mind when you’re soaking in the copper tub at the center of the emerald-tiled bathroom. In addition to the bathroom the cottage features a bedroom and cozy living room with a fireplace.

The cottage is part of North Shire, which is a vacation destination inspired by several film settings, including The Lord of the Rings and The Greatest Showman. The Groundskeeper’s Cottage rents for $250 per night and can accommodate up to six guests. You can book your stay here.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: Courtesy of North Shire

 

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Walmart Just Put IKEA on Notice with Its Chic New Line of Furniture

by Erica Loop

Who says you have to spend your kiddo’s college fund just to decorate your home? Forget about pricey, shabby chic pieces—because the MoDRN furniture line at Walmart is here and you’re about to fall in love!

Walmart is already that big box store with super-low prices, so here’s your first look at the big box retailer’s new MoDRN line of minimalist, sleek—and most importantly, affordable—home furniture. Watch out, IKEA: you’re on notice with these new offerings from Walmart!

With furniture, home decor, outdoor, kitchen, dining, bed and bath picks, there’s something for everyone—and every room. Best of all, the price-point can’t be beat. Check out these cool collection picks:

MoDRN Scandinavian Link Single Door Cabinet ($279)

 

MoDRN Glam Metallic Stitched Decorative Throw Pillow ($29)

 

MoDRN Industrial Copper Plated Charger Plate Set ($45)

 

 

MoDRN Industrial Metal Wall Mirror ($69)

These, and all the other products in the MoDRN line are available in stores and at Walmart.com.

—Erica Loop

All photos: Courtesy of Walmart

 

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How to Watch The Rare Super Blood Wolf Moon Lunar Eclipse

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Young astronomers and stargazers alike will be treated to a rare sight when they look up at the night sky later this month and spot the first total lunar eclipse of 2019. Dubbed the “Super Blood Wolf Moon,” the name alone is enough to get us excited!

So what does this crazy name actually mean? Between Jan. 20 and Jan. 21, you’ll be treated to a total lunar eclipse of a supermoon (a.k.a., the term for when the Moon is full and super close to Earth at the same time.) The reddish copper hue that covers the Moon during the event is what makes it a blood moon. As for wolves? The Wolf Moon is typically what the first full moon of the year is called.

photo: Matteo Grassi via Unsplash

But why does a lunar eclipse look red? Astronomer Pamela Gay explains to Space.com. “A blood colored moon is created [by] ash from fires and volcanoes, … dust storms and pollution all filtering sunlight as it scatters around our world,” she says. “A grey eclipse is clear skies. Our world can change the appearance of another world, and during an eclipse, the universe lets us see this color play.”

The eclipse will be visible from anywhere in the United States, provided it’s not cloudy where you are. The event will begin with a partial eclipse around 10:30 p.m. Eastern on Jan. 20 and reach full eclipse by 12:12 a.m. Eastern on Jan. 21.

For kids on the West Coast, that means they’ll be able to catch sight of the full eclipse without sacrificing bedtime at 9:12 p.m. Pacific on Jan. 20. Regardless of where you live, this is a rare event worth staying up for as the next total lunar eclipse visible from the United States won’t happen again until May 2021.

You can check out TimeandDate.com for the exact timing of the eclipse in your own neighborhood.

Happy moon gazing!

—Shahrzad Warkentin

 

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10 Fabulous Hostess Gifts Under $20 on Amazon Right Now

by Karly Wood

The holidays are approaching and you’ll probably be attending more than a few soirees. Who wants to show up empty handed? Not us, and that’s why we’ve rounded up some gorgeous and inexpensive hostess gifts that will be sure to wow your friends. Shop this list and have your gifts in hand in two days, thanks to Amazon Prime!

Wood & Copper Salad Spoons

They say the best gifts are the ones you would never buy for yourself, even if it's as simple as something like wood and copper salad spoons ($20). This gorgeous set is made in India and is such a beautiful way to say thank you, especially if paired with a matching bowel or new cookbook.

Iceless Wine Cooler

Your hostess probably has tons of things going on, and that's why a gadget like the Prodyne Acrylic Iceless Wine Cooler ($17) will make their life easier. Whether they end up using it for the party you're attending or to keep their wine chilled throughout the week, this cooler works with a double-walled technology and without ice. No mess!

100% Pure Beeswax Taper Candles

Can you ever go wrong with a pair of candle sticks? No, especially when it comes to these beautiful hand-rolled 100% beeswax taper candles ($10). The honeycomb pattern means a dripless burn, and they are also non-toxic, lead free and are smokeless. Pair with a decent priced bottle of wine for the ultimate hostess gift.

Elegant Place Cards

Help your hostess have the mostess with a 50 pack of elegant place cards ($16) for the perfect table setting. Whether they use them for your party or for plenty of upcoming holiday get togethers, this holiday gift will definitely be useful this season.

Modern Pot & Planter

Perfect for herbs or succulents, this ceramic pot held in a geometric gold frame ($17) would look great on any hostesses desk or end table. Give the gift of greenery!

Marble Cheese Slicer

Hosting a party and cheese go hand in hand, so the next party you hit up, make sure you bring along these gorgeous marble cheese slicer ($16) for your hostess. The 5x8 marble slab is all natural and comes with two replacement wires for years of elegant slicing to come.

Luxurious Soaps

Help your hostess keep her bathroom stocked by giving the gift of luxurious hand soaps! This pack from Bali Soap is just $9 and not only gets the job done when it comes to hand washing, but looks gorgeous and smells amazing at the same time.

Family Time After-Dinner Conversation Starters

Help your hostess get the party started with a Family Time set ($8.95), that provides family-appropriate ice-breaker questions to get everyone talking. With 50 thoughtful questions about the past, present and future, everyone will get acquainted and have a good time, in no time.

Pretty Tea Towels

Every hostess can use a fresh set of tea towels and we can barely choose our favorite from Floursack ($13), which include plenty of neutrals and farmhouse-chic styles, but we think these flower ones are divine! They are made from 100% imported cotton and manufactured like the old vintage grain bags which also served as kitchen towels. 

Chateau Spill Red Wine Remover

Hosting a get together almost always results in a mess somehow. Make cleanup for your hostess a breeze with the Chateau Spill Red Wine Remover ($7.95) that breaks down stains at the cellular level. It removes spills without peroxide, chlorine bleach, or phosphates and even works on set-in stains, like berry juice and makeup. It's also non-toxic and safe for washable items because it's colorfast

––Karly Wood

All Photos: Courtesy of Amazon

 

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11 Drool-Worthy Baby Bibs & Cover-Ups

by Eva Ingvarson Cerise

Babies get messy and have so much fun doing it. Whether they’re teething, eating or painting, no outfit is safe. Unless, of course, you have the right bib—one that keeps them clean and that they won’t rip off. Don’t worry; there’s a bib out there for every kid and every kind of mess. Read on to find your favorites.

Bandana Bib from Copper Pearl

You don’t need to sacrifice fashion for function with these bandana bibs in eye-catching prints and colors. Perfect for teething, these drool-catchers feature two snaps rather than Velcro for a secure fit and are made of 100% cotton on the outside and soft polyester fleece on the inside. Best for 3-24 months. Available at copperpearl.com; $19.95 for a set of 4.

Which bib would work best for your child? Let us know in the comments.

— Eva Ingvarson Cerise 

 

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Ten Tongue Twisters to Trip You Up

by Erin Feher

Sure, some of the short sentences below look simple as pie. But we promise that once you try saying them five times fast you will find yourself fumbling. Kids will get a kick out of attempting to say these phrases as quick as they can. See how many times you can finish each tongue twister without making a mistake. Good luck!

Photo: Ben Francis via Flickr

1. Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.

2. She sells sea shells by the sea shore.

3. Six thick thistle sticks. Six thick thistles stick.

4. Good blood, bad blood.

5. Flash message. Flash message.

6. Comical economists. Comical economists.

7. A proper copper coffee pot.

8. Mix a box of mixed biscuits with a boxed biscuit mixer.

9. Lesser leather never weathered wetter weather better.

10. Ed had edited it.

Do you have any other favorite tongue twisters? Share them in the comments below! 

—Erin Feher

 

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