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Ask ManMade: What the ______ Are Men Supposed to Wear to Dress Up in the Summer?

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created at: 07/08/2013

Two weeks ago, it was a wedding in 95° heat with 95% humidity. Last weekend, a special night out at local restaurant we've been wanting to try. Next week, an out-of-town business-y trip to the desert. All of which have sweatingly, swelteringly reminded me: I have no idea how to dress up when it's hot outside.   

Fall and winter? Easy. Bust out the layers, and almost anyone looks great in wool. Springs cool nights allow for plenty of jackets and long sleeves...but summer? I tried everything I have, and I can't stop coming off like a college kid whose girlfriend is making him take her to her spring sorority formal, or an MBA about to do eighteen holes with his boss. (Nothing wrong with either, but those are just not the case here.) 

So, seersucker aside, what's a guy supposed to do in the summer? The cats above (from the Miami-based Starz drama Magic City) just seem to have to tough it out, jackets and starched collars and all. But, there's gotta be a better way.

So, please share some of your tips and best practices in the comments below. Is it about cuts? Materials? Are short sleeves, or even shorts, ever and option? Sandals? For those of you that live in warm weather places all year round, how to do you dress up without roasting? 

Let us know. I'm sure every guy can benefit from a chat like this. 

[Top Photo courtesy of Starz/Greg Williams for Vanity Fair]


Inspiring Workspaces: The Mozilla Factory in Japan

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Mozilla Factory in Japan [http://nosigner.com/case/mozilla-factory/]

Mozilla's new space in Japan is what our interior design dreams are made of: bright open spaces, pops of colour, and a minimal aesthetic that allows for ideas to grow.

Designed by Nosigner, this space follows Mozilla's motto: open source software for all. In this case 'open source furniture' for all. 

Some of the features we're loving about these space are: the low cost of materials used to build it (wood, plastic, plain concrete), the versatility of having one main area that can be divided in different sections if needed, and way how the colours and materials create a gender neutral space. 

Mozilla's Factory in Japan

How cool is that? A secret compartment to hide all of those outlets. No more tripping over the telephone cord! Hey, what about doing the same to hide mini fridges and microwaves? Those are always an eye sore around the office.

To continue swooning over this modern workspace (and to take some design tips to bring them home), head over toNosigner.

 

Surreal Digital Illustrations by Tebe Interesno

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I'm completely entranced by these digital illustrations by Tebe Interesno. I think what draws me is the contrast between the surreal and sci-fi elements and the natural composition. At first glance, they look like a simple Photoshop collage, until you realize the depth of finesse and completely believable blending going on.

I'm guessing these are created from found images and photos, a sort of visual sampling, and I can't stop looking at them.   

See more in the archives on Tebe's site: Tebe Interesno [via Colossal]

 

 

ManMade Summer Guide: How to Make the Perfect Ceviche

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Ce·vi·che: A Latin American dish of marinated raw fish or seafood, typically garnished and served as an appetizer, or, in my mind: the best summer dish one can make at home! 

How to make the perfect ceviche. Photo by Gabriel Cabrera

Ceviche has this rep of being a complicated dish, and it's "raw" preparation can be intimidating. Except: It's not complicated, and it's not raw, just unheated. So, follow this guide to master the basics, and you can adapt and rock it like a pro. Let's get (not) cookin'!

How To Make The Perfect Ceviche

How To Make The Perfect Ceviche. Photo by Gabriel Cabrera

THE BASICS

The Fish: Choose semi-firm white fish or a sushi-grade tuna, or quality seafood like shrimp, scallops, octopus, etc.  ALWAYS use the freshest fish you can find, if possible visit the market and get a fresh catch. Avoid using pre-frozen fish at all costs! Not to be dramatic, but using pre-frozen fish will make your ceviche taste like the raunchy mermaid sweat. I've done it. You shouldn't. The best kinds of fish are:

  • Sole
  • Bass
  • Flounder

Another crucial step is to keep your fish super cold. As soon as you purchase it, take that baby home and put it in the fridge. Even better, ask for a baggy of ice to keep your Nemo cold as you commute. 

The Base: It goes without saying that you should choose the best summer produce you can find. If you're using tomatoes, peppers, or any other veggies, make sure they're just under ripe and still firm. If you buy them super ripe, they'll get too mushy when you marinate them. 

If you want to add heat, go for jalapeño or serrano peppers. You can also use red pepper flakes in a pinch. All of these options will give you medium heat, if you are a dare devil, then use habañeros or Thai chiles. Avoid using overpowering spices; as they sit, they could take over all the other flavours.

The Marinade: Citrus juice is your best bet. Always use freshly squeezed juice. Adding a bit of vinegar to the is also a good option, for example, you could squeeze some lime or lemon juice and add a splash of white wine vinegar to enhance the mix, and avoid sweet vinegars like balsamic.

How To Make The Perfect Ceviche. Photo by Gabriel Cabrera

THE RECIPE

Now that we got the basics covered, let's make a mighty bowl of ceviche. This recipe serves around four as an app, or two for dinner

Ingredients

  • Around 1.5 pounds of sole or any of the seafood mentioned above.
  • 1/3 cup of sliced radishes
  • 1 1/2 cups of freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice.
  • 1 cup of chopped tomatoes (small cubes). You can use roma or heirloom.
  • 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • 2 serrano peppers
  • Handful of finely chopped parsley or cilantro
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • Corn tortillas or chips
  • Tabasco sauce
  • Sea salt

Make it

  1. Clean and fondle your fish: First off, remove the bloodline, which is the dark red-ish line that runs along the back of your fish. Lay you knife on an angle and slice it off or gently pull it away. And we do want you to fondle your fish, not 'cause we're pervs, but because you need to make sure there aren't any bones or tough pieces left on the fish.

  2. Cube it up: Cut the fish in finger-width strips and then cut across to make perfect little cubes. Remember to keep your fish cold! You can place a bowl of ice with plastic wrap on top while you work on it.

  3. Marinate: Add the lime juice, radishes, tomatoes, onion, garlic, serrano peppers, parsley or cilantro, and the fish in a non-reactive bowl (e.g. glass). Add a few dashes of tabasco sauce, a couple pinches of salt and let it all marinate in the fridge for about 1-3 hours. Stir occasionally to make sure every bit is coated with the mix.

  4. Taste: When the time is up, check if the fish looks "cooked". What's happened here is that the acid has denatured the proteins in the fish, which does the same thing as heating. Cool, right? Taste the mix and adjust seasoning as needed.

  5. Serve: No need to fuss around - bring the bowl out of the fridge and prop it on your table. Heat up a few tortillas, slice the avocado, take a few beers out of the fridge, and my amigo, welcome to Villa Ceviche!

How to make the perfect Ceviche. Photo by Gabriel Cabrera

See? Not hard at all.

Buen provecho!

Men's Style: How Clothes Should Fit

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created at: 07/10/2013

I just stumbled across this cool new site called HowClothesShouldFit.com, a guy's guide to using clothing fit to look your best. What's interesting here, at least to me, is not the 101-style info, which is available on countless places all over the internet. I'm more intrigued by the presentation of the content as a website, instead of a blog post or infographic, because, well, it's easy to remember. And in the era of the smart phone, you can just type it in next time you're shopping for clothing or at the tailor, and it'll be there, every time. 

created at: 07/10/2013

The text was actually culled from a Reddit thread, and the site was written, illustrated, and coded as a collaboration among three users of the popular social news site.

Check it out (and memorize the URL): HowClothesShouldFit.com 

Incredibly Realistic Acrylic Motorcycle Paintings by Kenji Shibata

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Acrylic paintings by Kenji Shibata [http://www005.upp.so-net.ne.jp/seevert/paintings/index.html]

We are not kidding - these are paintings! Incredibly detailed acrylic paintings on cotton cloth. Damn good art for all of you motorbike lovers!

Kenji Shibata is the skillful artist responsible for creating these amazingly detailed paintings of motorcycles. His work is so precise, it's kind of unreal; popular mechanics taken to a whole new level.

It's always so inspiring to see when someone creates a beautiful representation of an everyday object - or machine - and turns it into a stunning work of art. Motorcycles, wether you love them or not, are kind of the ultimate man toy that wouldn't necessarily be displayed at art galleries - except when someone like Kenji Shibata steps in and turns them into visual inspiration.

Acrylic paintings by Kenji Shibata [http://www005.upp.so-net.ne.jp/seevert/paintings/1978yzr500.html#]

Wow. Look at the size of that brush! That's what I call dedication to your craft.

To see more of Kenji Shibata's work, visit his site. Take a few moments to let it sink in and read the wonderful descriptions of each piece (make sure to have Google translate ON).

 

Roundup: 8 Doughnut Recipes That Will Change Your Life

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Credit: Oreo doughnuts via Mess Makes Food [http://www.messmakesfood.com/mini-oreo-donut-recipe/]

Okay...maybe not change your life, but certainly motivate you to mix up some glazes and take on the fry at home. With creamy fillings to crunchy textures, this roundup will blow the ones from the grocery store out of the batter.

1. Oreo Doughnuts (above) What’s not to like about this one? Oreo cookies and doughnuts. Everyone’s favorite!

 

Credit: Chai Spice Doughnuts via On Sugar Mountain [http://onsugarmountain.com/2013/06/19/chai-spice-doughnuts/]

2. . Chai Spiced Doughnuts (above): Chai is not only for sipping in cold winter nights, it's also perfect to add an exotic twist to these sugary treats. How about having a chai, while eating a chai doughnut? So meta.

 

Credit: Gluten free doughnuts by A case of the Mondays [http://www.acaseofthemundays.com/2012/02/gfree-baking-cinnamon-cake-donuts.html]

3. Gluten Free Cinnamon Cake DoughnutsCan't have gluten? No problemo. This recipe has none of that so you can feast without any pain..or shame.

 

Credit: Peach doughnuts with white chocolate via Veggie Wedgie [http://www.veggie-wedgie.com/?p=2066]

4. Peach Doughnuts with White Chocolate and PistachiosPeaches, white chocolate, pistachios - nothing says summer like making a batch of mouth-watering doughnuts!

 

Credit: Grapefruit donuts by A Beautiful Mess [http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2013/01/grapefruit-donuts.html]

 5. Grapefruit Donuts: Another summer-inspired treat, these doughnuts combine the tangy, citrus flavour of grapefruit with the sweetness of a homemade glaze. Total winner.

 

Credit: Key lime pie donuts by The Baking Robot [http://thebakingrobot.com/2013/06/30/key-lime-pie-donuts/]
6. Key Lime Pie Donuts
A doughnut-y twist on a classic pastry. This recipe is somewhat similar to that of a “cronut”, except that you won’t have to fly to New York to try it.

 

created at: 07/08/2013

7. Strawberry Pop Tart Donuts: Oh remember the good ol’ times? When pop tarts were the thing? This recipe is definitely going to revive some teenage memories - minus the pimples, of course.

 

Credit: Buttermilk donuts by Island Menu [http://www.islandmenu.com.au/blog/buttermilk-doughnuts-made-with-callington-mill-flour/]

 8. Buttermilk Doughnuts Plain and simple, nothing complicated about this delicious recipe. Just a few ingredients and a whole lotta yum. 

DIY Idea: Make a Side Table Out of an IKEA Hamper

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We never tire of a clever IKEA hack, and this is one of our faves. What used to keep track of your dirty socks can now hold your coffee and magazines.

This project is quite affordable - you only need a few things:

- A wooden block
- An old ikea hamper with wire frame
- Wood stain
- Sandpaper

Make a DIY Side Table. Credit: The Clever Bunny [http://thecleverbunny.com/2013/04/08/diy-ikea-hack-side-table-home/]

You don’t even need any power tools; you can simply go to the hardware store and have them cut a wood block to fit the frame (be nice when you ask, and wink if necessary). Most home centers sell glued up blocks of aspen that'll work perfectly for this one.

A few cool variations of this project would be to paint the frame black and the wood in white for a Scandinavian look, or even through some color in there on the legs. Perhaps use a few screws drilled in the middle and place an additional piece of wood to create an extra shelf. Since you don't have an IKEA hamper lying around, hit up Craigslist. They've got plenty.

To see the full post with instructions, hop over toThe Clever Bunny: Ikea Hack Attack! Making a Side Table

 

 

 

Ikea Hack Attack! Making a Side Table


How to: Make a Handsond Wood and Leather Lunch Box

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I wouldn't discount anything that has lunch hidden inside, but I'm particularly fond of this sharp, functional, and 100% handmade lunch tote project.   This cool how-to comes from Mr. Lentz, a Southwestern U.S.-based craftsman who calls himself a "modern cowboy of the creative revolution."

created at: 07/11/2013

The design features a continuous full-grain leather top, bottom, front, and back, with some lightweight pine sides that keep everything rigid, and prevents your lunch from flopping around. Everything's held together with brass screws and snaps, and I'm digging the mixed-media look on such a practical object.

Watch the full process at Mr. Lentz's site. (And subscribe while you're there. We did.): Almost Lunch Time Day 2 

 

A Note to Self...

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created at: 07/11/2013

Note to self - July 12, 2014: Visit all the nearby awesome things while you can. 

 

I'm at the point in my adulthood where I'm realizing I'm probably not going to live in this region for the rest of my life, and that there are way too many cool things nearby that I haven't been to yet. Stuff like... oh, you know, the largest cave system in the entire freakin' world that's only a half day drive from my house! 


So, as you read this, I'm headed down to Mammoth Cave National Park for a two-day backpacking trip and to tour the caverns. If you wanna follow along, I'll be doing my best to share all the goodness on Instagram. Well, provided there's a signal in the depths of the underground and in the remote backcountry. I'll #latergram it, at least. 

See you Monday!

 

[photo by Stephen Alvarez for National Geographic Travel]

 

 

 

 

How to: Make a Handsome Wood and Leather Lunch Box

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I wouldn't discount anything that has lunch hidden inside, but I'm particularly fond of this sharp, functional, and 100% handmade lunch tote project.   This cool how-to comes from Mr. Lentz, a Southwestern U.S.-based craftsman who calls himself a "modern cowboy of the creative revolution."

created at: 07/11/2013

The design features a continuous full-grain leather top, bottom, front, and back, with some lightweight pine sides that keep everything rigid, and prevents your lunch from flopping around. Everything's held together with brass screws and snaps, and I'm digging the mixed-media look on such a practical object.

Watch the full process at Mr. Lentz's site. (And subscribe while you're there. We did.): Almost Lunch Time Day 2 

 

How To: Make a Custom Rug from Carpet Tiles

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If you have one of those awkward corners in your place, where no store-bought carpet will work, then this DIY project is perfect for you. Don't worry, it doesn't have to be pink.

Though, while pink might not be your first choice, you gotta admit it makes quite a statement when placed on top of that super dark hardwood floors. You can use this same idea to make a bold statement rug in your favorite color, or a custom shape. 

Since you are going to be using carpet tiles, you could play with some patterns or different color blocks. Make it interesting!

Word of advice, make sure to use a thick cutting surface if you're going to give this project a go - especially if you're doing it directly on your floor.

Most materials can be bought at the hardware store and it shouldn't cost you more than a regular rug (actually it might be less if you happen to have some leftover tiles from a home project).

For full instructions and materials hop over to PlastoluxCutting a Round Rug From Floor Carpet Tiles

Roundup: 5 Great Summer Recipes Using Tequila

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Paloma cocktail. Photo by K&K Test kitchen [http://www.kandktestkitchen.com/2013/03/the-paloma.html]

When most of us think of tequila, a huge headache and a bad hangover come to mind. But this spirit is one of our faves, and has a lot more going for it than shots and salty wrists. So, here are a few ideas to use tequila in different recipes, all headache and hangover-free...kinda.

1: Paloma cocktail (above): This refreshing cocktail takes a few minutes to make and uses a few ingredients - grapefruit soda, lime, and tequila. The soda helps tame the tequila down so it tastes all kinds of smooth.

Tequila battered onion rings. Photo by Life as a Strawberry [http://www.lifeasastrawberry.com/tequila-battered-onion-rings-with-honey-lime-yogurt-sauce/]

2: Tequila Battered Onion Rings: The perfect snack for a chillaxing summer weekend. Great when paired with some beers or a ManMade chelada! This recipe includes a few tips to create a honey lime yogurt dip!

 

Mango Fruit and Tequila Popsicles with Serrano Chiles. Photo by Cooking Stoned [http://cookingstoned.tv/recipe/mango-fruit-and-tequila-popsicle/]

3. Mango Fruit and Tequila Popsicles with SerranoFor all of you heat lovers, this popsicle recipe combines the best of both worlds: booze and spice. Make a few for your next bbq and serve them with some extra fruit on the side which will help to cool down your taste buds.

 

Tequila soaked watermelon wedges. Photo: Martha Stewart [http://www.marthastewart.com/315329/tequila-soaked-watermelon-wedges]

4. Tequila Soaked Watermelon WedgesA little flashback of those college days, except this recipe is a bit more for grown ups. These watermelon wedges are a quick and easy way to add a refreshing, boozy snack to your summer party. Just remember to NOT watermelon and drive.

 

Chili tequila lime popcorn. Photo: Sweet Life [http://sweetlifebake.com/2012/09/27/chile-lime-tequila-popcorn/#axzz2Z5XBjzlH]

5. Chile, Lime, and Tequila PopcornIf you're thing is to stay in on the weekend to catch up with your favorite shows, then this is right up your alley. This recipe is like a mini party in a bowl, loaded with spice and citrus notes. Seriously, the best tv companion.

How To: Make Your Own [Healthy] DIY Sports Drinks

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Make Your Own Electrolyte Energy Drink via Everyday Roots [http://everydayroots.com/homemade-energy-drink]

Commercial sports and recovery drinks get an universally bad wrap: they're full of sugar, unnatural dyes, extra preservatives, and are overpriced. Some critiques are fair, though if you're doing extended cardiovascular exercise, you do need additional carbohydrates in your blood so you don't hit "the bonk."

Regardless, there are many benefits to making your own energy drinks at home: you save money, reduce waste (no more plastic bottles), and you get an extra boost of nature-created vitamins and minerals. The team of Everyday Roots know this and created an super easy guide so you can whip up one of these goodies.

With summer in full blast, lots of local farmers markets are bursting with fresh produce, so take advantage of this and get fresh fruits and veggies for your concoctions. 

You know what they say, less is more, and this case, less refined ingredients is better. Visit Everyday Roots to get full recipes and tips to get you started. 

Cheers to a healthy summer, gentlemen. 

Make Your Own Electrolyte Energy Drink

10 Things Every Man Should Own [Summer Edition]

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created at: 07/24/2013

Some of the most frequent kinds of questions ManMade receives are inquiries like, "I just graduated college and finally have a real income and I'd like to start investing in some long-lasting goods..." or "my fiancée's birthday is coming up, and I'd like to buy him something every guy should have..." In 2013, I've been giving my take on those essential items, offering a new collection of ten each season: winter, spring, summer, and fall.  Some of these you might already own, some of these you might need to upgrade to a quality version, and most of these apply to women and households too. Please let me know what you think, and what you'd add or take away in the comments below.    

1. Grill [pictured at top] - This one is a no-brainer. Why? Not because the grill is a man's domain or such goofiness, but because every home - from urban apartment to sprawling rural retreat - should have a grill. They produce flavors and dishes that you simply can't create with other means of cooking. And, while I'm at it, lemme put in a plug for the charcoal grill. I have and regularly use a gas grill, but when it comes to serious summer evening dinners, charcoal is the way to go. The food speaks for itself, but working with a live fire and active coals elevates the grill session from dinner to an event. You can't just turn the burners on high and go back inside. You have to monitor it...you get to sit outside, pay attention to the fire and the food, and make an evening of it. Which, at least to me, is the point of cooking outdoors in the first place. Plus, you can smoke foods on basic kettle grills, which are inexpensive and lightweight, and the small portable grills can be easily stored in a closet or on a balcony for the apartment dwellers. Recommended: Weber 741001 Silver 22-1/2-Inch Kettle Grill or for portability, the  Weber Smokey Joe (The best grill of its kind, for only $35!) For more: The ManMade Grilling Section!

 

created at: 07/25/2013

2. Baseball glove - Or...rather, any sort of one-piece-of-equipment outdoor game option. A soccer ball, a kickball, maybe even a jump rope. But for me, it's an American made leather baseball glove. Not cause I'm good at baseball (I'm not) but because there's an ease to a game of catch: a lilt, a conversation. It's not much exercise, and that's the point. You're not gearing up for a aggressive, sweat-soaked run, or an organized, competitive team exercise. It's just you and a friend or two, doing something next to each other that allows you to not just sit and look into each other's eyes. Plus, it's a baseball glove - it's a handmade piece of craftsmanship, it'll never go bad or need replaced if you care for it, and it's just something every guy should have. [Photo: Sean Winters (CC)]

 

3. A non-staining sunscreen - There's nothing manly about sunburn, or worse, problematic sun spots or moles that can go malignant on you. A summer tan might look nice, but constant and intense unprotected exposure to the sun will age your skin, making for premature wrinkles at best, and you-know-what at worst. Look for an oil free option for your face, neck, and back to prevent breakouts, and one with titanium or zinc oxide as the active ingredient, as it won't stain your clothing like Avobenzone-based sunscreen. And though it's much more expensive and produces some more waste, I use the spray sunscreens in SPF50 for general use. I'm regularly in the sun for many hours on long bike rides, and using the spray and not having to deal with the cream in my arm and leg hairs means that I'll actually wear it every time I head out. 

4. A pocket square - Wanna give that year-round investment gray or navy suit a summer burst? Wear a pocket square. Wanna not look exactly like all the other dudes at all those summer weddings? Wear a pocket square. Wanna convert what you wore to work into what your gonna wear for a night out? Wear a pocket square. Get a few, experiment, look sharp. Done and done. For more: How to: Buy a One Suit and Make It Work for Multiple Occasions [Pictured: Handcrafted, 100% natural fiber pocket square from Fox & Brie on Etsy]

 

5. Tent - Just get one. If you have one that you don't like or can't use or isn't designed for your style of camping, get one that will. There's something that happens when we sleep outside. I don't know if I can explain it...it's just what we do in the summer. If you're a dad, you owe your kids backyard sleepovers. You did them with your buddies, let your kids do it too. That's the stuff memories are made of. Whatever you do, step up and buy a quality tent that'll last as long as you do and store it properly, so it'll be ready when the time is right. I have two: a big guy that can sleep 6-8 adults comfortably for car camping, and a super lightweight backpacking tent for two. 

 

6. Nightstand - A dresser will work. A bedside table. A milk crate if you're still rocking the collegiate look. You just need a stash spot to keep your daily use items - your wallet, watch, glasses, and the like - plus your bedroom necessities: a lamp, your current book, alarm clock. None of that belongs on the floor, and nothing else belongs on your nightstand. It's like your tool kit for unwinding. Keep it clean. See more: Wake Up Your Bedroom: 7 Tips to Create a Modern Masculine Retreat 

 

7. Large ice cube tray or sphere mold - Because: summer. You need your drinks to be cold, but not water-y. Wanna turn a glass with some whiskey, bitters, and a bit of sugar into a true Old Fashioned? Put a big chunk of ice in it. The larger size slows the dilution rate, allowing your drink - whether a homemade lemonade or high ball - to change over time. Plus, the ice will freeze slower, making for a dense, hard, cold, and non-cloudy cube that your drink deserves. I use both the Tovolo silicon large cube molds, and the Tovolo two-part ice sphere makers, both of which work amazingly. 

 

8. Travel wallet or money clip - Your everyday wallet should hold your loyalty card memberships, family photos, business cards, or whatever you need on you when you need it. But, there are lots of occasions when just the basics will do: your I.D., a credit card, and a bit of cash. Like, when you're vacation, or anytime you're wearing a suit. Get the one that works for usual carry, then seek out a slim option for the essentials: travel bi-fold, a card case, a money clip, your pick. Just get one that you can easily carry and remember to use. No bulges on vacation...or a date. Weekend Getaway 101: A Man's Guide to the Perfect Summer Trip

 

created at: 07/25/2013

9. Heavy duty 8" chefs knife - It's not the only knife you need in the kitchen, but it's the one you'll use for 90% of tasks. So, step it up and buy one that'll get the job done. Hint: it doesn't come in a block kit, it's not serrated, and you can't buy it at the discount store. Look for a German, Swiss, or Japanese brand that's comfortable in your hand, full tang, and made of quality steel that will hold its edge, and stand up to resharpening. If you are saving up for the Wustof or Shun, head to the restaurant supply store and buy one of their high quality molded handle chefs knives. They're made to stand up to constant use and regular sharpening. For more: The Essential Kitchen: The 15 Tools Every Man Needs to Cook Like a Pro

 

10. Serious flashlight - Like, a serious one. One you can find when those summer storms take the electricity down. That can illuminate the entirety of your attic when you're looking for that one thing that you're pretty sure you put up there, cause you can't find it anywhere else. One that'll go from the tent to the bathroom down the lane, or two that grassy patch because that bathroom is too far away, and is just a hole in the ground anyway. LED models are best here: the use the same amount of batteries, and run at least four times as long as an incandescent bulb. And they're all kinds of bright.  

For more, see the first two installments of our 10 Things Every Man Should Own series: The Winter Edition and Spring Edition

 


DIY Idea: Make a Puzzle Board - Perfect For Summer Snacks

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Puzzle board

The perfect board that will allow you to eat, mingle, and hold your drink, all at the same time. We want 10 please.

The Puzzle Board by OOOMS - Dutch Design Studio is perfect for summer entertaining. How many times have you been at a party, where your hands were so full you: A - spilled your drink, B - smearshed cheese on your shirt, C - hid in a corner to ravage your food so you could get it out of the way. Sounds too familiar, right?

The Puzzle Board is a great option to avoid all that mess. You can line them up in a row to display food or you can pass them around for people to hold their food and drink, without any spilled red wine casualties.

They're available at SuperMarketHQ for a mere $26, but I like the idea of trying this yourself. Some 1" maple and a jigsaw should do the trick with a little sanding. If wine glasses aren't your think, a hole saw could make a nice resting place for a tapered whiskey tumbler

Head over here to get yours!

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to: Make DIY Rustic Masculine Candles

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How to make a reusable rustic candle. Photos: Gabriel Cabrera

Can't get into the floral smells and garish artwork of storebought candles? Nope, us either. So  we came up with our very own DIY version to make a reusable rustic candle that any guy can be proud to burn in his home. (Or log cabin?)

Scented candles can be quite expensive and usually super fragrant... which is totally fine if you're relaxing at the spa with cucumbers over your eyes. (We're not judging...) So, we suggest making your own affordable candles in a reusable container that can be filled up over and over. Light it up. 

How To Make a Reusable Rustic Candle

How to make a reusable homemade candle. Photos: Gabriel Cabrera

 
Materials:

  • Rustic mug or container (try an enamel mug designed for camping, or an old cup from the secondhand store)
  • A penny
  • Essential oil of your choice. We recommend: cinnamon, pine, cedar, or citronella (acts a mosquito repellent too!). NOTE: It's very important that you check that the oil is suitable for candle making as some oils can only be used for low-temp projects (e.g. soaps).
  • 1/2 a pound-ish of wax - For this project we used 24 candles from the dollar store. *See more details below.
  • Candle wick (you can buy one at your local craft store or you can use one from the melted candles).
  • A chopstick or wooden skewer
  • A bowl and a saucepan to make a double boiler.

* You can purchase wax at your local craft store, but it can be a bit pricey, at around $20 or more per pack. Instead, we went to the dollar store and bought a few packs of "emergency candles." For the amount needed for this project we spent around $4.00 USD.

How to make a reusable rustic candle


Make it:

1: Make a double boiler by placing a bowl over a pot with water (make sure the water's not touching the bowl). Bring water to a boil and reduce heat so it simmers.

2: Add wax/candles and let them melt. Add a few drops of the essential oil. Stir with a chopstick. We also read once that you can use bacon grease as a scent. We didn't try it, but you totally should.

3: While everything is melting - "glue" the penny to the candle wick by using a few drops of wax. Place the penny right in the center of the cup and tie a knot around the chopstick to keep it from moving.

How to make a reusable rustic candle

 
4: *Carefully* start pouring the hot, scented wax into the cup. Save a a bit of wax for any touch ups.

5: The wax will contract a bit while it cools down. If it shrinks too much around the edges, use the left over wax to fill up any holes.

6: Cut the excess wick and light it up!

How to make a rustic candle

 
TIPS:

  • Got wax on your clothing? No worries, just place a piece of newspaper on top of it and iron it on high heat. Once you get rid of it, rinse the spot in hot water.
  • Don't want to use a double boiler? Then buy microwaveable soy wax at the craft store. Nuke it and follow the same steps above.
  • NEVER heat the wax directly on the stove as it could ignite. Yikes!

And...that's it. Once the candle is consumed, refill it with more wax. That's another brand new candle for just a few bucks. Use it at home while reading, in the kitchen to get rid of strong smells, or to light your camp in the backcountry. 

 

 

Superhero Silhouettes Reveal Their Past and Present Identities

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California-based designer Khoa Ho created a new poster series called "Superheroes - Past/Present." The artist depicts graphic silhouettes that detail how several popular superhero narratives turns previous perceived weaknesses into the very thing that gives each hero his power.   

Ho says, "I took a dive into the origins of these individuals and who they were before they became superheroes to remind us that despite the trials of our past, what we choose to do moving forward is much more important to us and the world we share.”

Certainly a motif that's been explored before, but it's cool to see all of these together and to note the artist's choices.

See them all at Khoa's site: Superheroes Past/Present [via My Modern Met]

 

 

 

 

 

Luna: A Concrete Skin for Your iPhone

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Luna concrete skin for iPhone

Concrete shows no signs of slowing down; it seem it's even gotten as far as...the moon?   

‘Luna’ is a new series of iPhone 5 skins design by Posh Craft that resemble the surface of the moon. Each concrete skin is flexible and super thin, so you won’t have to compromise looks for comfort.

Each unique iPhone skin has craters that make the whole thing look super realistic. If you’re looking for something modern, masculine, and just a bit geeky, this one's for you

If you can’t wait to get your hands on one of these cosmic skins, then visit Posh Craft’s site where they have more info about ‘Luna’ and several other projects. 

How to: Make Low Cost, Large Scale DIY Map Art

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My buddy and fellow blogger Andrew came up with this great solution to make rustic, big impact artwork that can serve as the focal point of a room for less than dinner for two.    The first clever step is taking advantage of this new-to-me-and-now-I-will-visit-constantly site called Big Map Blog, where they offer free, downloadable high-resolution scans of vintage maps, both hand drawn and photographic. Their collection is growing, and it's easy to find maps of either places you love, or just one with an aesthetic you want in your home.

The second is a quick and dirty DIY frame, using affordable dimensional lumber and then oxidizing the wood with a steel wool and white vinegar solution. 

Andrew has the full how-to on his site, Primer, as well as some photo examples that readers who followed the tutorial have sent in. Check it out: 

Make This Giant Map & Frame For Only $30

 

 

 

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