Make a sock monkey Here’s how to upcycle last year’s unappreciated socks (or ties) into utterly loveable gifts. You will need 1 pair of socks, the brighter the better Sharp scissors Pins Tape measure or ruler Marker pen or tailor’s chalk Needle and thread and/or sewing machine 2 matching buttons for eyes Toy stuffing Chopstick or
New year’s resolutions are great in theory, much harder in practice. We asked two experts for their top tips on how to turn your goals into reality. Plus: Five eco-friendly resolutions 1. Timing isn’t everything Antipodeans have it lucky when January 1 finally rolls around. Our spring cleaning is
Stylist Susan Elijas shows how to create a new chair covering in eight steps, using a fine-looking hemp fabric from Hemptech You will need: An old chair Approximately 1 x 2.5 metres of sturdy fabric (depending on size and style of chair) Sewing machine and thread Sharp scissors Staple gun or
Cold, damp and filled with toxins—we sure know how to build ’em. Many of our houses seem better suited to growing toxic moulds than raising healthy children. Attack the problem with the typical arsenal of household cleaners and you’re likely to add to the unhealthy conditions. Are
Chocolate is a rich treat—often made with ingredients produced by the world’s poorest. Sarah Heeringa indulges in some fair trade recipes that deliver a chocoholic bite—without a bitter aftertaste. By Sarah Heeringa. Chocolate cake, chocolate fudge, or straight from the block … whatever way you take it, there’s nothing quite like chocolate
As darkness and winter chills kick in there’s comfort—primal pleasure even—in the sight of leaping flames. If you love fire, what’re your best options? As darkness and winter chills kick in there’s comfort—primal pleasure even—in the sight of leaping flames. Trouble is, open fires are hopelessly
Taking fair trade to market has never looked so good. Lauren Bartlett talks to companies at both ends of the business spectrum about the startling growth of trading fair. Plus: 12 tips from Trade Aid’s Vi Cottrell It’s a tough ol’ market at the moment. Consumers are
A DIY veggie garden for the whole family, from the ground up—literally. From neglected wilderness to neat rows of vegetables, in just eight weeks. Yes, it’s possible. Paul Thompson tells us how Photos: Paul Thompson Week one We burst enthusiastically through the garden gate, splitting in several directions. Our
From allergy prevention to zero waste, we help you through your 21st-century home renovation. Make sure your home ends up healthier and comfier after your do-up: start here We Kiwis spend billions renovating our homes. So why aren’t we all warmer and more comfortable? We need
Seed saviour Kay Baxter founded the Koanga Institute, beloved by Kiwi gardeners for reviving New Zealand’s almost-lost food plants. Francesca Price heads east to meet a 60s chick who is still trying to change the world Gardening guru, seed saver, guardian of the nation’s food supply
