Design Corral

If you can’t stop making air pollution you better find another way to reduce it. That seems to be the goal of urban forestation and these vertical forest designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti.  A great idea to reduce air pollution but there seems to be a lack of balcony space for residents and also natural light for indoor areas from these renditions. I think we may need a few thousand more buildings like this to do the job.

Apparently they can:

Along the facades, 600 tall trees, 500 medium-sized trees (for a total amount of 1100 trees from 23 local species) and 2500 cascading plants and shrubs will cover a 6.000 sqm area. A real vertical forest that will help to regenerate local biodiversity, will provide a 25 tons of CO2 absorption each year and will produce about 60 kg of oxygen per day.

Via stefanoboeriarchitetti.net

Image via Stefano Boeri Architetti

Vertical Forest

Via stefanoboeriarchitetti.net

Here are similar towers in Milan that were designed by Stefano Boeri, Gianandrea Barreca and Giovanni La Varra

The post Can Proposed Vertical Forests Reduce Air Pollution appeared first on Design Corral.

I love the uniqueness and originality this straw camera captures. They brought back memories of when I was in middle school when we made a pinhole camera in art class. However, it is apparently totally different and involves a different perspective.

Using 32,000 black drinking straws, collaborators Michael (Mick) Farrell and Cliff Haynes created the Straw Camera, a homemade camera they began experimenting with in 2007. Despite the connection one might draw to a pinhole camera, the camera actually functions quite differently, producing a multi-point perspective from an array rather than a single point perspective.

Image via thisiscolossal.com

Multipoint Straw Camera

As you can see from this photograph the picture is quite elaborate and more like a impressionistic photograph.

To read more about the project, check out the photography duo’s website

via A Homemade Multipoint Pinhole Camera Made from 32,000 Drinking Straws

  The post Could You Take A Picture Using 32,000 Drinking Straws From a Straw Camera appeared first on Design Corral.

Many consumers probably think the engineering of Amazon’s Alexa would make it easier for consumers to purchase more products on Amazon. While this may be partially true, it turns out that Alexa  is being used in ways contrary to that. Consumers have discovered the Amazon Alexa tricks that continue to make the personal assistant enormously popular.

Amazon Alexa Tricks

The Echo and Echo Dot and its amazing abilities have been well documented. From giving worried commuters the latest weather forecast to ordering doll houses and sugar cookies for little girls, it seems there is nothing Alexa cannot do.

But while those abilities are vast and far-reaching, many Alexa owners still do not realize how many cool things their new devices can do. Consumer want to know what abilities Alexa really has and what other consumers use it for in the daily activities. Here is a breakdown of consumer uses of Amazon’s Alexa personal assistant.

Top 5 Amazon Alexa Uses

1. Set A Timer 85%

2. Play A Song 82%

3. Read The News 66%

4. Set An Alarm 64%

5. Check The Time 62%

So what other Amazon Alexa tricks are there? Take a look at this chart from Business Insider. It shows the top 12 Alexa tasks asked by consumers.

Image via Business Insider

Other Amazon Alexa Uses include:

Build Your To-Do List

Alexa may be a cool toy, but it is also a bonafide personal assistant. The powerful to-do list function is a perfect case in point. Thanks to Alexa, you do not even need a pen to create a honey-do list for your spouse or keep track of all the things you need to accomplish in the days ahead.

All you need to create the perfect to-do list is Alexa and your voice. Just wake up the device by saying its name, tell it to create a to-do list and start listing all the activities you (or your spouse) hope to accomplish. You can check on the status of your to-do list and check things off any time you wish, keeping your life nicely organized.

Listen to Your Podcast Anywhere You Go

The podcasting feature is one of the most popular Alexa abilities, and many owners use it to listen to their favorite shows. But the lesser-known voicecast feature is even more powerful, allowing you to listen uninterrupted even when you have to leave the room.

Just wake up Alexa and ask it to send the stream to a compatible device, like your Amazon Fire tablet. Now you can keep listening while you check off all those items from the to-do list you created earlier.

Find Your Phone

If you have a smartphone, chances are it has been lost at one time or another. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could ask someone to look for it? Thanks to Alexa, now you can.

Just ask Alexa to trigger the find my phone feature. Once the feature is activated, your Echo device will call the phone, and you can simply follow the sound to your lost smartphone.

Get a Ride

Did you know Alexa can give you a lift? Many owners do not realize that Alexa pairs seamlessly with ride-sharing services Uber and Lyft, so just tell the device where you need to go and wait for your car to arrive.

All you need is an Uber or Lyft account. When you wake Alexa and ask for a ride, the device will automatically make the arrangement. In a flash, you will be headed off for your next great adventure.

The Alexa personal assistant has already become a staple of many homes, and owners are just now getting to know their devices. If you have one of these smart assistants in your home, now is the time to explore some of its many abilities, including the ones outlined above to make your life easier.

We certainly hope you find these tips and tricks helpful.

Please let us know what you think about Amazon Alexa tricks by leaving your thoughts below. Don’t forget to share these with a friend and on social media!

  The post Top 5 Cool Amazon Alexa Tricks That Consumers Use Most appeared first on Design Corral.

Valentine Fortune Teller

What is a Valentine Fortune Teller? Remember those from back in the day! Going around school and using the fortune teller on all your friends. Valentine’s Day was the best because you were trying to get a kiss!

Well we have created four Valentine fortune tellers that you and your children can use to have some fun. Check out these new downloads below. These are free downloads, just add them to the cart and checkout. The download link is on the thank you page of after checkout.

Free! Add to cart

There’s fun for all ages! nothing inappropriate but these are great for kids and adults.

Free! Add to cart

Just download and print them on your color printer. Print some to take into your child’s classroom Monday before Valentine’s Day so they can assemble them in school.

Free! Add to cart

Don’t for get to include some of our free printable Valentines Day cards as well. These are also called cootie catchers.

Valentines Day Fortune Teller

Free! Add to cart

Click here to refresh your memory on how to play cootie catcher game and also how to fold a fortune teller.

How To Play Fortune Teller Game

Insert your fingers underneath and into one of the four flaps.

Have a friend pick a flap where you have a word, number etc..

Move the flaps back and forth coinciding with the number of letters of the word they chose, the number etc…

Open the cootie catcher and have them pick a number they see. Count again usig the back and forth motion of the flaps.

The third time ask them again to pick a number. Then open the flap to reveal the fortune inside the flap.

We hope you have lot’s of fun making and helping your children make the fortune tellers.

That’s it for our free printable valentines fortune tellers. We certainly hope you are able to use some our designs to make your Valentine’s Day that much more special.

Please let us know what you think of the designs by leaving your thoughts below. Don’t forget to share these with a friend and on social media!

The post 4 Fun Valentine Fortune Teller That Will Make You Feel Young Again appeared first on Design Corral.

Valentines Day Desserts

Looking for one sweet way to show your love this year? Try making one of these mouth watering Valentines Day desserts for your sweetheart. You can surprise them in the morning with breakfast in bed or after work with a nice glass of wine and a mouthwatering dessert from out selection below. You will be greatly appreciated!

1. Strawberry Mouse Pie

Image via sugarfreemom

If your a fan of strawberries you’ll love this romantic strawberry mousse pie. Best of all, this one is no bake and uses the natural sweetener, Stevia. Looks mouthwatering and delicious!

2. Red Velvet Cake Bits

Image via sixsistersstuff

Just love these red velvet bites! You can’t beat red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting. This Valentine’d day dessert idea will be a favorite.

3. Sweetheart Cinnamon Rolls

Image via ladybehindthecurtain

These sweetheart cinnamon rolls won’t leave you hungry Valentine’s Day morning. Imagine waking up to these rolls, a cup of your favorite coffee and roses on a tray in front of you in bed on Valentine’s Day. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with these easy to make cinnamon rolls. Yum!

4. Mini Éclairs with Strawberries & Cream

Image via cookshideout

I had to add these delicious mini eclairs with stawberries and cream. If you get eclairs right, there is no better dessert in my mind. So I encourage you to try these and let me know how they are received. I can’t get enough cream and strawberries with powdered sugar!

5. Sex In A Pan

Image via jocooks

Well, for obvious reasons this has to be included in our Valentine’s Day dessert roundup. Just the name, sex in a pan says a lot, but upon further inspection and taste, you can’t go wrong with this amazing mouth watering dessert. Just look at the picture, OMG!

6. Berry Panna Cotta

Image via letthebakingbeginblog

If you have never tried a panna cotta you are in for a real treat. Panna Cotta an Italian dessert meaning “cooked cream”. It’s sweetened cream and is usually molded before serving. Well this berry panna cotta recipe looks delicious as they add berries to the mix to compliment this fabulous dessert. This will definitely impress your Valentine sweetheart.

7. Chocolate Mini Cakes With Cream Cheese Frosting

Image via whoneedsacape

For chocolate lovers these small chocolate cakes with cream cheese frosting will satisfy to your hearts content. These are easy, simple and delicious!

8. Valentine Blondie Bars

Image via ahelicoptermom

Blondie bars are always a hit for any occasion and these Valentine blondie bars are no exception.

9. Mini Raspberry Swirl Cheesecakes

  Image via ahelicoptermom

These raspberry swirl cheesecakes are festive and full of Valentine’s Day color. I love cheesecake so these are right up my alley. Contrary to what you may think, these are easy to make.

10. Mini Chocolate Strawberry Lava Cakes

Image via mysequinedlife 

Another chocolate lovers favorite! Who can’t resist molten chocolate and strawberries! These mini chocolate strawberry lava cakes are guaranteed to be a hit for Valentine’s Day.

We hope you try one of these mouth watering valentines day desserts for Valentine’s Day this year as these are our favorite dessert recommendations. Please share this post with friends who may be looking for some delicious Valentine’s Day dessert ideas.

The post 10 Mouth Watering Valentine’s Day Desserts You Can’t Resist appeared first on Design Corral.

Amazon is trying to help your child learn through the Amazon STEM club toy subscription service. Finding decent educational content consistently for your child is hard to do. You also don’t want your child to lose interest or fell overwhelmed  as they learn. There is a fine line between how much time you spend with your child learning and how much they learn on their own.

How can Amazon help? The Amazon STEM Club toy subscription service subscription service sends a STEM approved toy to your child each month based on their age, up to age 13. The subscription service takes the guesswork out of choosing the right toy for your child. It also makes sure your child receives a toy each month and doesn’t forget.

There are three different subscription services, 3 – 4 year olds, 5 – 7 year olds and 8 – 13 year olds. The toys are hand-picked by Amazon and are high quality. You receive a $20 value toy each month.

(We may receive compensation if you purchase something mentioned in this post, details here)

  Example STEM toy 8-13 year olds Image via Amazon

Click Here To Learn More About Amazon STEM Service

Amazon STEM Club Toy Subscription

So what is STEM and a STEM toy and why is it important? STEM is an acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. STEM toys are designed to help children learn through play based activity. Play based learning has been well documented for many years and you can read more about it at NAEYC. The type of toys they receive depends on the age and the toys range from blocks to robotics.

Example STEM toy 3-4 year olds Image via Amazon

Click Here To Learn More About Amazon STEM Service

  Example STEM toy 5-7 year olds Image via Amazon

Click Here To Learn More About Amazon STEM Service

Of course there are pros and cons to a service like this. Does Amazon really know what toy is best for your child? As a parent you could:

1. Choose the toy yourself

A parent could sit down in the course of an hour or two and do a bit of research on Amazon for STEM toys. There is a special node for this category here. You can browse and select the toys you think your child would like over the next few months. Set up a reminder on your smartphone with the ASIN of the toy and purchase it.

2. Make sure the toy is valued at or near $20

If you selected the toy yourself you could guarantee your toy was valued at or near $20. With Amazon selecting the toy, your toy could be valued less than the $20 as has been pointed out in many of the Amazon reviews.

3. Make sure the toy is age appropriate

Check the box and make sure the toy is appropriate for the age of your child.

Overall, the parent is the best judge of what to choose for their child. There is a trade off obviously, but I think the Amazon Stem club program has good intentions and provides consistency and convenience for some parents.

Click Here To Learn More About Amazon STEM Service

  The post Amazon STEM Club Toy Subscription Could Make Your Child Smarter appeared first on Design Corral.

Monticello tulip poplar bowls and tables

The craftsmanship and skill it takes to transform trees into bowls and tables is remarkable. When you combine those talents with Thomas Jefferson’s historic plantation, Monticello, it has profound consequences. Enter the work of master woodworking artisan Frederick Williamson and his Monticello tulip poplar bowls and tables.

Monticello tulip poplar

Take these two large tulip poplars that stood majestically by the southwest and northwest corners of Monticello for over 100 years. The trees had to be removed in 2008 and 2011 as they posed a threat to house. The trees dated back to 1808 according to this document. The poplars may have been planted as part of Jefferson’s garden, which is inline with his writings.

Image via Fred Williamson

  Image via Fred Williamson

What is extraordinary about this is that it gives Fred Williamson and a few other select woodworking artisans, the opportunity to turn this historic wood into one of a kind bowls and tables. Just to give you a perspective on how large of a tree Fred Williamson had to work with, take a look at this picture below.

Image via Fred Williamson

Smaller sections of the tree are masterfully cut down to be used for different items and then for bowls, they are put on a lathe and turned. The wood then begins to take the shape of a bowl.

Image via Fred Williamson

After further refinement, sanding and finishing the wood is finally transformed into bowls and tables like these.

Image via Fred Williamson

  Image via Fred Williamson

  Via Fred Williamson

  Image via Frederick Williamson

  Via Fred Williamson

  Image via Fred Williamson

  Fred Williamson with one of his bowls.  Via Frederick Williamson

These Monticello tulip poplar bowls and tables are transformed into truly remarkable pieces of art. The stock from these limited edition Jefferson tulip polar bowls and tables is getting low.  The remaining handcrafted pieces are found at the Monticello Online Shop. Contact Frederick Williamson for further details on his website.

Monticello tulip poplar

Other artisans using the tulip polar wood reclaimed from Monticello include:

Huss & Dalton Musical Instruments: Guitars

Lee Thomas™ Putters: Monticello Putter

Channel Craft: Heirloom Hobby Horse

Kirk McCauley: Bowls, Chess Sets Rolling Pins

Elbert Dale: Rolling Pin

Via Monticello.org

Featured image via By Martin Falbisoner (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

The post Unique Monticello Tulip Poplar Bowls And Tables That Will Transform Your Home appeared first on Design Corral.

Holy Stone Quadcopter F181

This year we splurged a bit on some of the kids toys and I thought this Holy Stone quadcopter F181 drone would be a pretty cool toy for my 12 year old. When I was growing up, I used to love getting these RC airplanes on Christmas morning. I started with the planes that had the string control lines with the gas engines. I would go out and watch my dad try to start them and then eventually crash them on the local baseball field and I never even got a chance to fly them! Ouch!

I didn’t want to put my child through the same frustration going from elation (receiving the gift) to huge disappointment (crashing the new toy) as I had witnessed in my youth.

Fortunately, technology has come a long way! Especially, in terms of the quadcopters or drones. Even some of the inexpensive drones have the auto hover feature which makes it incredibly easy to fly the drone. Once you are hovering it’s literally just steering and keeping it away from trees. Holy Stone made it easy for my 12 year old to fly!

Set up of the Holy Stone quadcopter F181 is very straight forward. There are small screws that are already attached to the plastic blade guards and landing gear making it easy to screw together. They also include screwdriver that fits these small screws.

Convenient Battery  Charging

The next step is to charge the battery in the quadcopter which takes about 60 to 80 minutes to charge. An extra battery is also included. Flying time for our Holy Stone Quadcopter F181 was about 10 minutes. You need to be careful where it is when it runs out of batteries. You don’t want to be over water or high bushes or trees. It also comes with two usb charging cables, one for each battery. These are great because they make charging convenient. You can charge with a computer, in the car or use your iPhone wall charger.

The range for us was probably about 400 feet. This was hard to gauge because it is also really hard to see what direction the drone is going at this distance in the first place. The lights are too far to see and you can’t tell if it’s going away from you or towards you. So in this case we used the return to home button.

You can also set it up in headless security mode so it faces the same direction during flight.  So, as long as the pilot doesn’t change direction it makes it easy for the pilot not to lose the quadcopter.

(We may receive compensation if you purchase something mentioned in this post, details here)

Holy Stone Quadcopter F181 RC Drone

Image via Holy Stone

Click Here To View The Holy Stone Drone

On our maiden flight we flew down across a field near a pond where there were geese in the field. The geese picked up on it as it became closer and eventually they went running and launched a massive takeoff across the pond. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to record this, but this would have been a great shot for the video card.

Great Built In Video and Photo Capabilities

The F181 comes with a video camera capable of 1280 X 720 Picture and Video at 30 frames per sec . This allows very high quality video and images for such a low price point.

The video card is 2gb but I upgraded to a much larger card for around $15 at Best Buy to hold more memory. It also comes with the card reader to view on your pc or mac.

Image via Holy Stone

You do need 4 AA batteries for the transmitter.

Click Here To View The Holy Stone Drone

Built in Flips

Another cool feature are the buttons on the transmitter that can be used for a pre-programmed 4 way flip function which does just that, flips in mid air!  Of course it can also rotate 360 in all directions as well.

Image via Holy Stone Manual

Click Here To View The Holy Stone Drone

Built in Gyro

The 6-axis Gyro stabilization system makes the helicopter more stable and flexible when flying. It has the characteristics of wind-resistant and can be flied indoor or outdoor

In addition to the manual that comes with the drone you can also download it from their website here so you take a look before you buy.

Range Signal

Makes it easier to see how far you are from being out of range.

Holy Stone Quadcopter F181 Negatives

The biggest negative I found was getting the drone started. I followed the manual and directions precisely and could not get the quadcopter to lift off or even start the props spinning. I turned to Amazon answers in the product review section and asked the question and have since found it in the online manual. I was looking at the wrong section and misunderstood the procedure. Once I solved this, it was easy! Touch the button and move the throttle!

For the price, durability and affordability of this F181 quadcopter you simply can’t beat it the price and it is a good buy.

  Image via Holy Stone

  Click Here To View The Holy Stone Drone

The post Super Cool Holy Stone Quadcopter F181 Drone Virtually Flies Itself appeared first on Design Corral.

Valentines box ideas

Looking for some super cute valentines box ideas this year? We scoured the web to find what we felt were the best Valentine’s Day box ideas we could find. These Valentine’s Day craft ideas are fairly easy and just require a little time to cut and paste paper on outside the box. Yes, it is that time of year again so you need to get busy and plan which Valentine’s box idea you are going to create with your kids. Don’t just build something you see here. You these examples as inspiration for some REALLY cool ideas you can build with your family.

Valentine’s Boxes

Your children or students will find them immensely entertaining and fun. The best part is they can make the Valentine’s Day cards that they put into boxes for for their friends and classmates. Some of the valentines box ideas include a rubik’s cube box and a unicorn box. There is also a cute little owl and penguin, an adorable bee and a hippo.

There’s even a Darth Vader Valentine’s Day box. These are some of the cutest ideas we have seen to date.

1. Valentine’s Day Box Ideas

Image via craftymorning

Lot’s of cute Valentine’s box ideas at the craftymorning.com

2. Valentines Day Boxes

Image via prettymyparty.com

This blog has some great selections. I just love the camper van, Darth Vader and the owl Valentine boxes. You can find them at prettymyparty

  3. Valentines Boxes

Image via tipjunkie.com

There are 14 more neat ideas at tipjunkie.com you can browse for inspiration.

4. Valentine’s Day Craft Ideas

Image via growing a jeweled rose

Some more cute Valentine craft ideas here at growingajeweledrose.com including an R2D2 Unit and Batman.

5. Valentine’s Day Card Boxes

Image via Real Simple

More fun Valentine’s Day box ideas at Real Simple

6. Valentine’s Box With Hearts

Image via verywell.com

We love this basic Valentine box with lots of hearts placed on the outside. So easy and so simple. Find step by step instructions at verywell.com

7. Monster Valentine Box Idea

Image via hip2save.com

We just love the monster themed Valentine’d Day boxes! They are really cute and require some materials you can find easily around the house. Things like pipe cleaners, egg cartons, duct tape and tissue boxes. How easy is that!

Visit hip2save.com to see these instructions.

That’s our wrap on some of the best Valentine’s box ideas we have found. We  hope you’ve enjoyed our recommendations. Please share this post with other crafting enthusiasts who may be looking to create cute Valentine’s Day boxes with their children.

Also, check out some of the other post we have like this one on gift ideas for groomsmen.

Featured image courtesy hip2save.com

The post Valentine’s Box Ideas That Are Super Creative And Helpful appeared first on Design Corral.

Underwater iPhone Case

Looking to convert your iPhone into a cool underwater camera? To do that, you will need a underwater iPhone case.  We have a few options that will help you make your decision and transform your iPhone into a super cool underwater camera that takes amazing underwater photos.

Most of us aren’t going on serious dives more than 100 feet. So for those of us just doing some snorkeling and shallow dives, these first few underwater iPhone cases are going to be something to consider.

Budget also plays a part in our decision. How often do you use your underwater iPhone case? I know for  me it’s probably once a year on vacation.

(We may receive compensation if you purchase something mentioned in this post, details here)

1. Vansky Waterproof dry bag

This is the least expensive option coming in at around $10. However, it very versatile and offers serious water protection for earlier iPhones and smartphones. It fits current iPhone 7 and 7 plus and allows for decent underwater photos at depths up to 100 feet. Of course, it also acts as a waterproof case for other items like wallets, credit cards etc… for rafting, canoe trips and wet theme parks.

Click Here To View This Case

2. Skyocean Waterproof iPhone6/6S

This Skyocean underwater iPhone case is currently available for iPhone 6, but I suspect 7 and 7 plus are on the way. It makes your iPhone 6 waterproof up to about 6 feet or 2 meters.

Click Here To View This Case

3. Optrix by Body Glove

This underwater iPhone case by Body Glove is also only available for the iPhone 6 currently. It is waterproof up to 10 meters or 33 feet. Getting the floating wrist strap is recommended.

Click Here To View This Case

4. ProShot Waterproof and GoPro Case

Proshot is waterproof up to 100 feet and this one fits the iPhone 7. This case is compatible with GoPro and can be mounted to most anything.

Click Here To View This Case

  5. LenzO for iPhone 6/6s

The Lenzo is perhaps the best of all the cases and for more serious divers. However we are still waiting for the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus to be launched. They currently have a Kickstarter campaign going to raise funds for this project. The price range is probably going to be about $395. The depth for this underwater case is 328 feet or 100 Meters. You can get a great price if you support them on Kickstarter

Click Here To View This Case

That’s our wrap on some of the best underwater iPhone cases. We  hope you’ve enjoyed our recommendations. Please share this post with other iPhone enthusiasts who may be looking to waterproof their phones to take great pictures.

Also, check out some of the other tech post we have like this one on selfie camera accessories.

  The post Use This Cool Underwater iPhone Case To Take Amazing Photos appeared first on Design Corral.

Use these selfie camera accessories to take picture perfect selfies of you and your friends. These 12 gadgets will help stay on the cutting edge of selfie accessories and keep you taking the best selfies possible.

The iPhone 7 plus is bigger and badder, but it’s more difficult to hold. So we’ll start with some of the most basic selfie camera accessories that simply help you hold your smartphone to take better pictures.  Then we’ll jump to more creative and unique ways to take cool selfies. That includes a pocket size selfie drone that flies around you to take the picture. So let’s get started.

(We may receive compensation if you purchase something mentioned in this post, details here)

Selfie Camera Accessories

1. Popsockets

I just started seeing Popsockets pop up at my daughters school and they are increasingly popular because they help you hold your phone. I have always thought the iPhone was a weird shape and have had a hard time holding it with one hand. The Popsockets easily attaches to the back of the phone and is also retractable, so you can leave it on. The Popsockets makes holding your phone a snap. They help stabilize the camera and overall take better pictures.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

2. Mpow Selfie Stick

This is one of the most popular selfie sticks out there. It comes with Bluetooth remote control, wrist strap, small travel size and folds down to a convenient size of only 7.1″inches.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

3. Smart Remote Controller

Try this smart remote controller robot to take your selfies. Stop holding sticks and use this to take your selfie photos hands-free. Features 360 degree rotation and remote control.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

4. Selfie Light Selfie Ring

Never worry about the correct lighting when you take a selfie again. The selfie light ring easily attaches to your phone and gives just the right amount of lighting for your picture. Uses 32 LED bulbs built into the ring for heat-free lighting.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

5. Premium Bluetooth Remote Camera Shutter Release

This selfie camera remote is great for individual or group photos. Makes taking selfies hands free. Works up to 30 feet away and is compatible with most devices.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

  6. The Best Dog Selfies!

Take pictures with your favorite best friend, your dog, the easy way. The tennis ball acts as the perfect treat for your dog and captures his attention long enough for you to take the perfect dog selfie!

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

7. iPhone 7 Illuminated Cell Phone Case

This illuminated cell phone case has built in LED lighting all the way around. The case gives you 5 different lighting settings and is rechargeble. The case offers great phone protection as well.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

8. Selfie Drone RC Quadcopter Drone

This selfie drone offers a unique and surprising way to take cool selfies, including action selfies. Smart phone controlled, the quadcopter receives direction to the camera on the drone. Pictures and video are stored on your phone, not  the drone. Has many features making it easy to fly, take pictures and movies. Includes HD video and FPV camera, headless mode, push button return, altitude hold mode and many more. All this for a very reasonable price.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

9. BestMe Selfie Camera Filters

Ok, so you took your selfie picture, now what? You want to make it look as good as possible, right? So, try the BestMe camera filters. This app is FREE to download and offers a specially designed camera and editing capabilities. It also has 125 camera filters, collage and emoji-grid.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

10. Selfie Recording Golf Swing

If you are a golf enthusiast or have a friend that is, then you will want to consider this golf swing selfie. This selfie phone mount attaches right to your golf bag and holds any size smartphone. Records your golf swing without the need for a professional. Use your phones slow motion video to slow down the video to see your swing.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

11. Premium Selfie Stick

This best selling selfie stick has everything you need to take awesome selfies. Bluetooth compatible with IOS 10, 49″inch reach, two interchangable phone mounts, (one with a mirror), rechargable battery and twistable lock for stable pictures.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

  12. SELFIE MIC Selfie Karaoke

Now it gets interesting with this cool selfie mic set. Definitely one of our coolest selfie camera accessories. You and your friends will enjoy singing along to some of your favorite songs while taking your own music video with this selfie mic. The set includes the microphone, selfie stick and cables. You get a free download of the App and 100 songs. There are over 3 million songs in the karaoke library if you decide to upgrade. This is the ultimate for karaoke selfies.

Image via amazon

Click Here To Check Out This Item

There you have it for our selfie camera accessories guide. We hope you find these selections useful for taking the best and most interesting selfies out there!

The post 12 Creative Ways You Can Take Picture Perfect Selfies appeared first on Design Corral.

Gift Ideas for Groomsmen

Let’s face it, having happy groomsman can transform your wedding from a “ok” event to one your guests will always remember.  Whether you are planning a formal wedding at the local country club or a casual exchange of vows in your backyard, your groomsmen will play an integral, and critical, part in the ceremony. The choice of groomsmen is a big part of wedding planning, and once chosen, it is important to honor the commitment of your best buddies. These gift ideas for groomsmen will help you choose a gift suitable for your wedding party.

Groomsmen gift ideas

That means choosing the perfect groomsmen gifts, tokens of your appreciation and symbols of your lifelong friendship. The groomsmen at your wedding are your best friends, guys who have stood with you through thick and thin, helped you through breakups and heartaches and watched you emerge stronger on the other side.

Choosing the perfect groomsman gifts is not easy, nor should it be. Your groomsmen are your most cherished friends, and they deserve gifts that are worthy of their friendship, their support and their love. Here are 12 classic groomsmen gifts your best buddies are sure to love.

(We may receive compensation if you purchase something mentioned in this post, details here)

1. Monogrammed Money Clips and Card Cases

Money clips are that most classic of groomsman gifts, but they have never gone out of style. Every man, including your groomsmen, can use a quality money clip, and a monogrammed design will make it that much more special.

Click Here To View This Item

  You can also give your groomsmen monogrammed card cases, a wonderful alternative to the classic money clip. Metal card cases are stylish, beautiful, tasteful and perfect for every guy.

  2. Golf Umbrellas

Even if your groomsmen are not into golf, they will certainly appreciate a quality golf umbrellas. Golf umbrellas are perfect groomsman gifts – classic, stylish, tasteful and infinitely practical. When you gift your groomsmen with golf umbrellas, they will think of you fondly every time the skies turn dark.

Click Here To View This Item

And while you never hope for rain on your wedding day, those golf umbrellas will certainly come in handy if the weather does turn nasty. Once those rain shelters are in place, you will stay high and dry while you exchange vows with your bride-to-be.

  3. Quality Ties

A tie may not seem like a great gift, but quality ties never go out of style. Every man, including the groomsmen at your wedding, need a quality tie for formal occasions, and they are sure to appreciate your generosity and think of you every time they put it on.

Hermes Ties Image via Heremes

The key is quality – your groomsmen are unlikely to appreciate, or wear, a poor quality tie. They will, on the other hand, be happy to pick up the wonderful tie you gave them for the wedding.

  4. A Personalized Engraved Whiskey Decanter

An engraved personalized whiskey decanter is a wonderful way to honor the groomsmen at your wedding. The decanters look great on the bar and can also be purchased in sets with matching glasses. You can splurge and get two or three decanters to complete the bar with different whiskies.  The engraved bottle will remind your best friends of the greatest day in your life, and your groomsmen will think fondly of you every time they pour a drink. Engraved decanters are great gift ideas for groomsmen.

Click Here To View This Item

    5. Poker Sets

If your weekly routine includes a card night, why not give your groomsmen personalized poker sets, complete with chips and deck holders? A quality poker set is a classic groomsman gift that will be used and appreciated for years to come, and it will make every game night more fun.

Click Here To View This Item

Poker kits are great groomsmen gifts even for your friends who do not play. Having a poker set at home will give those non-players a reason to learn the game, and give you one more player on game night.

  6. A Quality Shaving Set

No matter how old or young your groomsmen are, they all have one thing in common. Whether they sport a full beard or the smooth look, your groomsmen need to shave, and that makes a quality shaving set the perfect gift. Shoe shine kits are great gift ideas for groomsmen.

Click Here To View This Item

Whether you choose a shaving kit with a stylish metal handle or the good looks of wood, your groomsmen will think of you every morning as they get ready to face the day. Top off the shaving kit with a bottle of quality shaving oil for the perfect finishing touch.

  7. Monogrammed Flasks

Every man deserves a little secret, and a monogrammed flask is the perfect hideaway. Flasks are tasteful, beautiful and infinitely practical, making them the perfect groomsman gifts.

Click Here To View This Item

You can make those groomsman gifts even more special with monograms, and many sellers will add the personalization at no extra cost. Whether they prefer wine, whiskey or beer, your groomsmen will love their new flasks.

  8. Gift Baskets

A gift basket may seem like a feminine gift, but not when it is stocked with fishing gear, outdoor equipment and classic movies. The great thing about gift baskets is that they can be endlessly customized, so go ahead and experiment.

Click Here To View This Item

Whether your favorite groomsmen are avid fisherman, movie buffs or diehard sports fans, you can find gift baskets they will love. Your groomsmen will appreciate your creativity, thoughtfulness and good taste, and they will think of you every time they pull something from the basket.

  9. Sports Memorabilia

If you have fond memories of sharing the big game with your best friends, why not honor the groomsmen at your wedding with specially chosen sports memorabilia? From an autographed football for your favorite pigskin fan to a framed jersey for the avid soccer fan, there are plenty of great groomsmen gifts for the sports aficionado.

  10. Zippo Lighters

Classic Zippo lighters are great gifts even for the non-smoker. Most of all,  your groomsmen will find plenty of uses for their new gifts, and they will think about you every time they flip the top. Personalized Zippo lighters are a great gift ideas for groomsmen.

Click Here To View This Item

Zippo lighters are so special that they have become collectors’ items over the years, further proof of their classic status. Who knows, the groomsman gift you give today may become a cherished family heirloom, one that is passed down from generation to generation.

  11. A Pocket Knife

Every man needs a pocket knife, and this is one gift your groomsmen are sure to use every day. Whether it is opening a package or cutting a piece of steak, your groomsmen will find plenty of ways to use their great new gifts. Pocket knifes are great gift ideas for groomsmen.

Click Here To View This Item

You can make those pocket knives even more special with monogrammed handles, so every one of your friends can have a special memento of the biggest day of your life. Whether you engrave their names or simply add an initial, the personalization will make the gift even more meaningful.

  Click Here to View This Item

  12. Shoeshine Kits

The era of shoeshine boys may be over, but the need for well-polished shoes has not gone away. No matter what they do for a living, your groomsmen need to look their best, and they can when you give them their own shoeshine kits.

Click Here To View This Item

From polishing rags to quality shoe polish, shoeshine kits contain everything your groomsmen need to make their shoes sparkle. Your best friends will think of you, and your special day, every time they put on their freshly polished shoes.

  Gifts for groomsmen

Throughout your life, your best friends have been with you every step along the way. They have been your confidantes, guarded your secrets and helped you pick up the pieces when things got tough. Now, at this most important day of your life, they will stand by your side one more time. Their commitment and loyalty should be properly rewarded. These 12 classic gift ideas for groomsmen listed above will help you say thank you in the best way possible.

The post 12 Best Gift Ideas for Groomsmen That Will Transform Your Wedding appeared first on Design Corral.

Lego Drone

You have probably read or seen the write up on one or more design or technology blogs about the Lego drone by Kitables. While, this idea is very cool and if you think back, we never would have dreamed of actually having a real Lego drone become a flying reality a few years ago.

There a few reasons why you may want to opt out of buying this Lego drone from Kitables.

(We may receive compensation if you purchase something mentioned in this post, details here)

Image via Amazon

Click Here To View The Kitables Drone

If you are considering purchasing a Lego drone or any drone for your children to build as fun project there are some things to consider. How much time and help will you need to assist them in the construction? Is your child a real DIYer?

Are you going to need any extra tools to complete the project? Will the project need any additional construction later on (after crashes etc…)

As a consumer you probably want a fun project for your child, where they can have fun building and learning to fly their creation. Granted, many of the drones out there are pre-built and just require moderate assembly, so that takes some of the fun out of building the entire drone.

Lego Drone Kit

Image via Amazon

Click Here To View The Kitables Drone

If you looking specifically for a Lego drone project, you would expect it to be manufactured, endorsed and warrantied by Lego brand. At this time though, Lego has not successfully offered a retail flying drone on their own, yet.

There are other companies like Flybrix that have Lego drones but why would you want a Lego drone in the first place? Think about just the nature of Lego toys, they snap together!

The Kitables and Flybrix are for the DIYer child and require serious assembly and adult supervision.

One drone crash could produce hundreds of scattered parts across the debris field. An FAA nightmare.

Granted, there are fun and educational aspect to building these types of toys. There are some kids that just love building and assembling and then, what a rush to watch it actually fly. This may be a good project to try at science class at school as well.

If we look closer at the Kitable Lego drone we’ll see some other issues. It requires at home soldering, using your own soldering gun.  On the website it says

“EASY TO FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS: Build your own Lego drone from scratch following detailed instructions online. Soldering is necessary put pieces together.

Click Here To View The Soldering Kit

Realize kids have different skill levels, some could probably solder well at 10 years old and others couldn’t at 13 years! As a parent this kit will require soldering. If you are unfamiliar, then there is a learning curve to be proficient, especially with small parts.

  DIY Lego drone

Having your child assembling the kit at the kitchen table may or may not be ok. If you look at some of the less favorable reviews on Amazon there are some reviewers that can’t even get the drone to fly despite all the efforts. Poor instructions are cited, poor equipment(using rubber bands to hold together), not powerful enough to get off the ground and missing parts.

This Kitables Lego drone kit also retails for around $80. Which is very expensive for what you get. You may want to consider the Holy Stone F181 RC Quadcopter Drone. For a few dollars more you get an unbelievable drone with minimal setup and lots of flying features. It is easy for a even a 12 year old to fly and assemble.  It even includes the ability to photo and video capabilities.

Click Here To View The Holy Stone F181 Drone

    The post Why You Shouldn’t Buy Kitables Lego Drone Kit appeared first on Design Corral.

Richelieu Library Reopoens

Richelieu library reopoens according to the BnF website, as of December 15th, 2016 the Richelieu Library was partially reopened to visitors. Renovation of the Richelieu Library which is part of the Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) started in 2009 and is scheduled through 2020.

Library of France

The Richelieu Library stores many interesting and unique collection of the BnF. These include prints and photographs, manuscripts, performing arts, maps and plans, music scores, coins, metals and antiques.  The renovation has been a major undertaking with the goal to:

rehabilitate the building and its equipments

renew and develop the services proposed to users

consolidate the library as a scientific and cultural pole of expertise

open the Richelieu Library to a larger audience

Source via BnF

Remaining Schedule

2017 – 2020 Renovation of the half of the building located along the rue Vivienne. All departments remain open to users.

December 2016 Opening of the renovated zone along the rue de Richelieu (Manuscripts Department, Performing Arts Department, Department of Coins, Medals and Antiques)

The architect

The agence Bruno Gaudin was selected in July 2007 to run the renovation project. It works in collaboration with the three following agencies: IOSIS (all professions), CASSO (prevention) and L’Observatoire 1 (lighting techniques).

Jean-François Lagneau, Chief architect for historic monuments, provides advice when listed areas of the library are concerned.

Source via BnF

Image via BnF © Jean-Christophe Ballot/BnF/Oppic

  Image via BnF © Jean-Christophe Ballot/BnF/Oppic

  Image via BnF © Jean-Christophe Ballot/BnF/Oppic

The Richelieu library is rich with history and is something you should definitely see if you are visiting Paris. The Bibliothèque nationale de France is composed of 4 different locations in Paris. BnF also has a digital library, Gallica, which provides access to over three million documents online. The architecture is just as amazing  as the museum. To see more of this beautiful new renovated space visit the BnF website.

Featured image courtesy Image via BnF © Jean-Christophe Ballot/BnF/Oppic

The post Richelieu Library Reopoens appeared first on Design Corral.

Pantone Color Of The Year

It’s not surprising that the Pantone color of the year is based on one of the most prevalent colors in nature, green. Their selection of Greenery 15-0343 is appropriate for the times. With the focus of our world(at least the civilized world) on clean energy, cleaning up mother earth, natural ingredients and organic foods, it’s only fitting that the Pantone color of the year for 2017 be Greenery.

Color of the year

According to Pantone,

Greenery is a fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew. Illustrative of flourishing foliage and the lushness of the great outdoors, the fortifying attributes of Greenery signals consumers to take a deep breath, oxygenate and reinvigorate.

Greenery

So Greenery serves as a a reminder of revitalization, new growth and rebirth. Each spring we see this in seasonality and in nature that surrounds us.  New leaves spring forth, transforming our world from cold lifelessness into lush vegetation and vitality.

 Image via Pantone

PANTONE 15-0343 Greenery is the PANTONE Color of the Year selection for 2017! A fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew. Greenery symbolizes the re-connection we seek with nature, one another and a larger purpose amid a complex social and political landscape.-Pantone

Image via Pantone

Using Greenery and it’s many complimentary pairings, in our homes and surroundings, would stimulate those same “life- affirming virtues”. Though this nothing new, man has always tried to connect and understand his role within nature. Perhaps this is why the color green was created in the first place.

It is estimated that man now spends more time than ever indoors, losing his natural connection with nature.

our modern lifestyles have created a disconnect from the natural environment wherein we spend significantly more time indoors. Some researchers estimate that humans spend up to 90% of their lives indoors.[10] This disconnection from nature have a negative impact on humans because we are missing out on the beneficial effects of nature. As a result, we are less connected to nature and feel less responsibility to protect this environment – Wikipedia

It seems fitting that we integrate the natural colors like Greenery back into our surroundings. Doing so helps reconnect and restore us.

  The post Pantone Color Of The Year appeared first on Design Corral.

Amazon Alexa Skills

If you haven’t stumbled upon the power of Amazon Alexa skills yet, you are in for a big treat. Alexa skills can be enabled on everything from an Amazon Echo device to your iOS or Android smartphone. Get the App here. These skills work on Amazon Echo and Echo Dot.

(We may receive compensation if you purchase something mentioned in this post, details here)

You can enable Alexa skills while you are traveling on business or can automate your office with a myriad of Alexa skills. These powerful skills (as Amazon calls them) allow you to conduct business with nothing more than a voice command. No more tapping away on your laptop computer. No more texting SMS messages by hand.

Once you integrate Amazon’s Alexa skills into your work life (or personal life), you realize just how incredible it is to conduct tasks by voice. If you’re a busy marketer wanting to maximize your time, following are five phenomenal Alexa skills you should discover.

Click Here To Check Out Amazon Echo

Click Here To Check Out Amazon Echo

  Click Here To Check Out Amazon Echo Dot

Click Here To Check Out Amazon Echo Dot

  Alexa MasterMind Bot

If you only investigate one Alexa skill to assist you with your marketing duties, the MasterMind Bot skill might be your best bet. This powerful skill lets you connect your personal computer, smartphone, and television to Alexa’s voice-enabled services.

Make telephone calls, launch mobile applications, send SMS messages, and receive notifications via voice commands. Who knew a voice-enabled future was going to be so awesome, right? All you do is login to your Amazon account online or via the app, and click on “enable this skill”.

Click Here To Learn More About Mastermind Bot

Alexa Quick Events

Do you like the idea of a more intelligent business calendar? Once you learn about the Quick Events Alexa skill, you’ll realize just how easy it is to manage your calendar.

Whether you are updating your personal calendar or adding new tasks to your content marketing or social media calendar, this powerful skill lets you instantly add events to your schedule with just a quick voice memo. All you do is login to your Amazon account online or via the app, and click on “enable this skill”.

Click Here To Learn More About Quick Events

Alexa Giant Spoon

Although Giant Spoon cannot be relied upon to be your sole source of inspiration, this engaging Alexa skill might be just what your team needs to start thinking outside the proverbial box. Ask Giant Spoon for brainstorming ideas at your next marketing meeting and see where the suggestions take you. All you do is login to your Amazon account online or via the app, and click on “enable this skill”.

Click Here To Learn More About Giant Spoon

Alexa Skill Finder

If you want to take your Alexa skills to the next level, add Skill Finder to your repertoire. This handy interface helps you find relevant Alexa skills you can put to work for your business. Find everything from scheduling skills and bookmarking skills to traveling and studying skills. All you do is login to your Amazon account online or via the app, and click on “enable this skill”.

Click Here To Learn More About Skill Finder

Alexa IFTTT

For marketers who want to supercharge their Alexa capabilities, investigating IFTTT recipes for Alexa is a must. IFTTT lets you do everything from voice-enable your to-do list to voice-activate your email and Evernote duties. It’s easy! Just register on the IFTTT site and download the IFTTT app. Then choose which applets in IFTTT you wish to use.

Click Here To Learn More About IFTTT

These are just five of thousands of skills available for Amazon’s Alexa technology. The more skills you discover, the more time you’ll save in your busy workday. Will you be adding Alexa to your modus operandi this year?

The post Can These 5 Amazon Alexa Skills Improve Your Marketing Efficiency? appeared first on Design Corral.

Modern Living Room Sofa Ideas

Check out these 5 super cool modern living room sofa ideas you can have for under $500. If you are in the market for a new living room sofa or are just fed up with your boring old conventional couch, Then you will want to check out these zippy modern living room sofas.

I know with our living room sofa, the bottom has become so soft that it’s hard to even get off the couch once you’re in. It literally consumes you because it has been used so many times. So that’s a good indicator that it’s time for a new living room sofa set or sofa.

Face it, as much as you use the sofa, you want it to be a comfortable at the very least, remember form follows function. You also realize that sofas are focal points in any home, so you want it to look nice, be different, modern and with chic styling.

So look through our selection of uniquely modern living room sofas that are stylish, better quality and so affordably priced it will make your head spin. Yet, they will transform your room into a work of art.

1. Modern Sofa

This cool white modern sofa boasts an adjustable armrest and back supports. It is faux leather covered on a wooden frame with chrome legs for that modern look and feel. This cool white modern sofa boasts an adjustable armrest and back supports. It is faux leather covered on a wooden frame with chrome legs for that modern look and feel.

Click Here To See This Modern Sofa

What a great modern contemporary look for under $500. What a great modern contemporary look for under $500.

Click Here To See This Modern Sofa

2. Modern Sofa

Click Here To Check Out This Cool Sofa Bed

This tufted white faux leather modern sofa and sleeper boasts beautiful styling and functionality. Perfect for the small apartment that needs an extra bed, this couch is very affordable at less than $400. This sofa can be concerted from sofa to chaise, to lounger then to sleeper.

Click Here To Check Out This Cool Sofa Bed

3. Modern Sofa

Click Here To View This Mid Century Modern Sofa

This Mid Century modern style sofa is one of our favorites! This sofa is so simple and has nice clean lines with a elegant grey linen tufted fabric highlighting the natural wooden legs. Very elegant and chic, and even better is the bargain price of less than $400!

4. Modern Sofa

Click Here To View This Mid Century Sofa

This simple and clean Mid Century design has easy to clean, high quality fabric. The tailored stitching adds a nice degree of styling as do the curved arms.

Click Here To View This Mid Century Sofa

Available in different widths, this is a very affordable way to begin collecting for those that are on a budget.

  5. Modern Sofa

Click Here To View This Sleek Modern Couch

This plush contemporary sofa is available in black and white and has a durable bonded leather upholstery built on a wooden frame.

Click Here To View This Sleek Modern Couch

Well that’s our collection of 5 modern living room sofa ideas under $500. We hope it is inspiring and will prompt you to explore and re-think the focal point of your living room.  I hope you can see just how cool a new modern sofa can make  your living room be.

If you like this, please do share this article with any friends you know that may be looking for some affordable interior design inspiration.

The post 5 Super Cool Modern Living Room Sofa Ideas For Under $500 appeared first on Design Corral.