Cherry chip cake is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cherries with a moist and fluffy cake base. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of making a homemade cherry chip cake that is sure to impress your friends and family. With a few key ingredients and some simple techniques, you'll be able to create a mouthwatering dessert that will be the highlight of any occasion. So, let's get started!

Preparing the Batter

To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix them together until well combined. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Adding Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing well after each addition. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to give the cake a vibrant pink color. Stir in the chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Incorporating Egg Whites

In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter, using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the airiness of the egg whites and result in a denser cake.

Baking the Cake

Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Rotate the pans halfway through baking for even 2 ingredient oreo dessert cooking. Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting and Assembly

Once the cakes have cooled, it's time to frost and assemble your cherry chip cake. You have the option to use either whipped cream or cream cheese frosting. Whipped cream adds a light and airy touch, while cream cheese frosting offers a tangy and rich flavor. Choose your preferred frosting and spread a generous layer over one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake, ensuring it is evenly covered.

Decorating and Serving

To enhance the visual appeal of your cherry chip cake, consider decorating it with additional maraschino cherries or chocolate shavings. You can also add a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor. Once decorated, refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the frosting to set. Slice the cake into beautiful portions and serve chilled.

Conclusion:

Making a cherry chip cake from scratch is a rewarding and delicious endeavor. By following this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to create a moist and flavorful cake that is filled with the delightful combination of cherries and chocolate. Whether it's for a birthday, celebration, or simply a sweet treat, this homemade cherry chip cake is sure to impress and leave everyone wanting more. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on a baking adventure to create a delightful cherry chip cake that will be enjoyed by all.

Custom vinyl lettering is a versatile and popular way to add personalization and creative designs to various surfaces. Whether you want to enhance your home decor, promote your business, or personalize your vehicle, vinyl lettering provides a cost-effective and visually appealing solution. In this guide, we will explore the process of creating custom vinyl lettering, from design to application, and provide useful tips along the way.

Understanding Vinyl Lettering:

Vinyl lettering is a type of adhesive material that can be cut into various shapes and designs, including letters, numbers, logos, and intricate patterns. It is made from durable, weather-resistant vinyl, which can be applied to different surfaces such as walls, windows, vehicles, and signs. Vinyl lettering is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing for endless customization options.

Designing Custom Vinyl Lettering:

Determine your purpose: Before designing your vinyl lettering, consider its intended use. Are you creating a promotional sign for your business or adding a decorative touch to your home? Clarifying your purpose will help guide your design choices.

Selecting fonts:

Choose a font style that aligns with the message or aesthetic you want to convey. Consider legibility, readability, and the overall mood you wish to achieve. Experiment with different fonts and sizes to find the perfect combination.

Sizing and scaling:

Measure the surface where you plan to apply the vinyl lettering. Use design software or online tools to visualize how different sizes and scales will appear. Ensure the lettering is proportionate and easily readable from the intended viewing distance.

Color selection:

Select colors that complement your design and serve the purpose of the vinyl lettering. Consider the background color of the surface you will be applying the lettering to, as contrast is crucial for visibility. Use color theory principles to create an eye-catching and harmonious color scheme.

Graphic elements:

If desired, incorporate graphic elements such as logos, icons, or illustrations into your design. Ensure that they are scalable and maintain their clarity when resized.

III. Creating Vinyl Lettering:

Equipment and materials:

Design software or online design tools
Vinyl cutting machine or professional printing service
Vinyl rolls in preferred colors
Transfer tape or application mask
Weeding tools (e.g., tweezers or weeding hooks)
Scissors or cutting tool
Scraper or squeegee
Design preparation: Using your chosen design software, create or import your custom lettering design. Ensure that it is properly scaled and aligned for cutting or printing.

Cutting or printing:

Depending on your available resources, you can choose to cut the vinyl lettering yourself using a vinyl cutting machine or outsource the printing to a professional service. If cutting yourself, follow the manufacturer's instructions for loading the vinyl and setting the appropriate cut settings.

Weeding:

Once the design is cut, carefully remove the excess vinyl material around the letters using weeding tools. Take your time to avoid damaging or lifting any small or intricate elements.

Transfer tape application:

Cut a piece of transfer tape slightly larger than your vinyl design. Peel off the backing and carefully apply the transfer tape over the vinyl lettering, ensuring it adheres smoothly. Use a scraper or squeegee to remove any air bubbles and ensure proper adhesion.

Applying Vinyl Lettering:

Surface preparation:
Clean the surface thoroughly using a mild detergent and water, removing any dust, grease, or debris. Ensure the surface is dry before applying the vinyl lettering.

Positioning and alignment:
Measure and mark the desired placement custom vinyl door lettering of the vinyl lettering on the surface.

Applying the vinyl lettering:
Peel-off transfer tape:
Start by peeling off the backing paper from the transfer tape, ensuring that the vinyl adheres to the tape.

Positioning:
Carefully align the lettering with the marked position on the surface, taking into account any desired spacing or symmetry.

Adhesion:
Once properly positioned, press the vinyl lettering onto the surface starting from one end and gradually working your way across. Use a scraper or squeegee to firmly apply the vinyl, ensuring it adheres smoothly without air bubbles or wrinkles.

Removal of transfer tape:
Slowly peel off the transfer tape at a sharp angle, ensuring the vinyl lettering remains on the surface. If any part of the lettering lifts with the tape, press it back down and apply pressure to ensure proper adhesion.

Finishing touches:
Use a scraper or your fingers to smooth out any remaining air bubbles or wrinkles. Pay attention to the edges and corners to ensure they are securely adhered.

Post-application:

Let it set:
Allow the vinyl lettering to set and adhere properly according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically takes around 24 to 48 hours.

Maintenance and cleaning:
Regularly clean the surface with a non-abrasive cleaner to maintain the appearance and longevity of the vinyl lettering. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the vinyl.
Removal (if necessary): If you need to remove the vinyl lettering, gently heat it using a hairdryer or heat gun to soften the adhesive. Peel it off slowly, using a scraping tool if necessary. Clean the surface thoroughly after removal.

Troubleshooting and Tips:

Air bubbles:
If air bubbles appear during application, gently lift the vinyl lettering and use a scraper or pin to release the trapped air. Smooth out the vinyl again to ensure proper adhesion.
Uneven application: Take your time during application to ensure even pressure and smooth adhesion. Use a scraper or squeegee to eliminate any wrinkles or unevenness.

Test application:
Before applying vinyl lettering to a larger surface, it is recommended to practice on a small test area to familiarize yourself with the process.

Surface compatibility: Ensure that the surface you plan to apply the vinyl lettering to is suitable for adhesion. Some surfaces may require additional preparation or priming to improve adhesion.
Storage: Store vinyl rolls in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, to maintain their quality and adhesive properties.

Conclusion:

Custom vinyl lettering offers endless possibilities for personalization and creativity. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can design and apply your own vinyl lettering to various surfaces, whether for decorative purposes or promotional needs. Remember to pay attention to design choices, surface preparation, and proper application techniques to achieve professional-looking results. With practice and attention to detail, you can enjoy the versatility and visual impact of custom vinyl lettering.

And like all personal choices, we each have our own reasons and rationales for committing to our lifestyle decisions. While some may prefer capsule wardrobes for their simplicity and ease, others might see owning less as a creative challenge. And although one might edit their closet simply to save money, another does so to reduce the harmful environmental and social costs of ownership.

Enter VETTA’s favorite lean closet bloggers, each with their own idiosyncratic philosophies behind their wardrobes. And while it might be intuitive to think minimal wardrobes equate to a single, particular aesthetic, these bloggers' styles range from classic-prep to European tomboy. These women will provide you with capsule wardrobe how-to's, brands to shop, daily outfit inspiration, and most importantly, proof that curating a lean closet is a personal choice worth making.

Caroline Rector of Unfancy
With her "mix and match and repeat" philosophy, Unfancy's Caroline Rector went a full year with only 37 pieces in her closet. While Caroline's structured capsule experiment is over, she still maintains a small closet filled only with intentional purchases and continues to share her clean, classic looks on her site. We love Unfancy because it’s essentially a capsule wardrobe playbook, with piece-by-piece inspiration for any season or special occasion. For those looking to adopt a leaner closet, check out Caroline’s post, "How To DIY a Capsule.”

We asked Caroline why she continues to populate her closet with only the essentials. “I do it because it's calming. It's a way to invite peace into my life, almost like meditation or yoga. It reminds me that I don't have to chase; I can be happy with a lot less. Practicing contentment with something small, like my closet, allows me to get better at it in other areas of my life, too.” For Caroline, keeping a lean wardrobe goes far beyond the clothes themselves. On Unfancy, a capsule wardrobe makes for a calm and clutter-free mind.

Lee Vosburgh of Style Bee
In 2013, Lee Vosburgh began her blog Style Bee (http://www.stylebee.ca), which has evolved into one of the most influential lean closet websites online today. Based in Guelph, Ontario, Lee has gained recognition from fashion influencers like Refinery29 and FLARE for her relaxed-chic style and timeless ensembles. Minimalists credit Lee for the booming popularity of the “10x10 Wardrobe Challenge,” in which participants pick 10 items from their current closet and style those exclusive items for 10 days.

When asked why she keeps a lean closet, Lee tells VETTA, "I keep a lean closet for peace of mind. Having only functional pieces I love to wear makes getting ready a pleasure instead of a dilemma!" Style Bee works to inspire readers to get creative with what they have, reminding us that getting dressed should be both fun and effortless.

Candice Tay
Toronto-based Candice Tay’s eponymous site is one of our go-to blogs for slow-fashion style inspiration, sustainable lifestyle tips and additional resources for building a capsule wardrobe. As she started her own journey to be a more conscious consumer in 2018, she writes that “Beginning this blog has taught me so much about the fashion industry and how detrimental it has been to our earth and to humans in the past decades. I want to be a part of that change”. Her minimal aesthetic shows you that you can create unique looks with a smaller closet. We have found her reviews of slow-fashion brands and categories extremely helpful for making thoughtful, new purchases.

Maria Lee of Gold Zipper
Taking the 10x10 challenge to new heights, Maria Lee wore one simple black dress for one month straight. Although she lives in New York City, Maria's extended capsule wardrobe looks like that of a polished Parisian girl. Her blog, Gold Zipper, aims to be a resource for anyone interested in becoming 50+ an owner, rather than a consumer, of clothing. "I believe that we buy more clothing than we could possibly ever need or use,” Maria tells VETTA. “We're so far removed from the lifecycle of a garment from raw textile to landfill that we don't realize the amount of responsibility we assume in clothing ownership.” Maria’s rationale for a capsule wardrobe is two-fold - she’s conscious of the social and environmental impacts of owning an excess of clothing, in addition to keeping a lean closet for stylistic purposes.

Maria also creates stunning, narrative videos in the city, chronicling her outfits and creating deeper, almost philosophical, dialogues around fashion and personal style. “I also keep a lean closet to curate aesthetic unity in my wardrobe,” Maria explains. “I was drawn to this idea because I'm fascinated by personal identity and self-presentation through clothing. When I have a lean wardrobe I know my clothes intimately, and consequently, I feel more comfortable in them."

Andrea Hartman of Seasons + Salt
Passionate about both ethical fashion and capsule wardrobes, Andrea Hartman of Seasons + Salt shares VETTA's mission - and we love it! Encouraging readers to "get off the fast fashion carousel" and think about how and where they get their clothes, Andrea's wardrobe ideology is centered around simplicity and quality pieces. The minimalist-with-a-twist looks on Seasons + Salt will give normcore-lovers new ideas for old pieces.

Andrea also does really helpful product reviews on essential wardrobe staples, like her “Leather Tote Review” where she compares three leather totes from Madewell, FashionABLE, and Cuyana. "For me, a lean closet is a vehicle to define my style, increase simplicity in my life, and buy responsibly-made items," Andrea shares with VETTA.

Deb Shephard of Clothed in Abundance
Deb Shephard encourages her readers to redefine living in abundance by making space and having appreciation for what we have. She covers topics ranging from minimalist fashion, mental health and money, while also providing downloadable worksheets and guides to help you on your journey to capsule wardrobes and minimalist lifestyle. Deb defines minimalism as ‘simplifying your life to live out your core values without societal pressure’ and is a huge advocate for de-cluttering your mind in order to focus on what matters most. We love her daily outfit posts and her 5 x 5 challenges featuring ethical fashion and her thrifted finds.

Allison Karaba of The Thoughtful Closet
With her blog The Thoughtful Closet, Allison Karaba hopes to encourage others to refrain from shopping for the sake of shopping and start doing more with what's already in their closets. “You don't have to keep buying clothes to evolve your style; sometimes it's just looking at what you already have a little differently,” she tells us. Allison's professional meets industrial aesthetic makes for endless cool girl looks for us to steal. The Thoughtful Closet features Allison's "10x10 Challenge" looks, styling tips, and our favorite -- her holiday guides and wish lists full of simple and versatile gifts and pieces.

From the first time she considered a lean wardrobe to the present-day Thoughtful Closet, Allison walks us through the evolution of her closet philosophy. “I first decided to try living with a minimal wardrobe after I looked at my closet, which was overflowing with clothes, and felt like I had nothing to wear. It was made up of tons of mediocre pieces and I honestly had no idea how to describe my style because everything was so random. I decided to cut down and focus on pieces that I truly loved and go from there. I also wanted to focus on a lean closet to help me with my shopping habits. I would always go shopping if I had a special event or trip coming up. But now with my lean closet I try to look at what I have and create something that feels new. A phrase that keeps floating around is ‘creativity loves constraint’ and I am a 100% believer in that statement.”

Jasmine Hwang of The Pleb Life
In 2017, Jasmine Hwang and her boyfriend Brandon set out to live a more sustainable and ethical lifestyle. Inspired by reducing her wardrobe by 70% in the first year alone, Jasmine uses The Pleb Life to document her on-going journey of building a capsule wardrobe with honesty and authenticity. She is not afraid to redefine her capsule rules, find new ways to implement low-buy/low-spend initiatives and makes an excellent case for having 5 black jumpsuits in her wardrobe. We love her 30x30 challenges, where she selects 30 items to wear for 30 days (including loungewear and shoes!) all photographed in sunny Southern California.

According to Jasmine, "Decluttering is the act of removing unnecessary clutter from your life; while minimalism is the act of living with enough and whatever 'enough' means to you. Minimalism asks you to challenge all the should’s of success and to find your optimal amount of possessions to be happy." We couldn't agree more.

Jessica Doll of Hej Doll
San Francisco blogger, Jessica Doll synthesizes her passion for travel and a simple capsule wardrobe to create her blog, Hej Doll. Jessica's sleek, utilitarian outfits lend themselves to great inspiration for those who are always traveling or on-the-go. Our favorite posts on the blog are Jessica’s city guides, each one showcasing her jetsetter looks.

Jessica tells VETTA that she keeps a lean closet to maintain a simpler life. “I save time, money, and energy by limiting my clothing to only those items that I love, feel great in, and know work well together.” Jessica is also a professional photographer, making Hej Doll is an endless archive of beautiful style and travel imagery.

Whether you are a seasoned member of a hunt or new to the sport and interested in beginning your own adventures in Fox Hunting, you can never know the basics well enough, and this is exactly what we shall be covering in Fox Hunting 101.

FOXHUNTING 101 -THE COAT
Our first installment of Fox Hunting 101 begins with you, the rider, and how you should be dressed when participating in a hunt. Proper attire for hunting stems from a historic practicality that is necessary for safety and preparedness in the field. A black hunt or frock coat with 3 black buttons on the front should be worn by members who have not been awarded colors. These coats are preferably made from Melton material, which is close to waterproof and comes in a variety of weights, and are ideal for protecting the rider from the cold and wet weather that often confronts hunts during the winter season. During informal or ‘ratcatcher’ hunts in the off season and informal meets during the regular season, cubbing coats may be worn.

FOXHUNTING 101 – THE VEST
Under your coat it is traditional to wear a vest (Canary or Tattersall in color) over a shirt that is typically white, yellow, or a subtle variation of those colors. It is traditional to wear a white hunting stock or stock tie secured by plain gold stock pin, this stock tie can be used in emergencies as a bandage for you or your horse, stirrup leather, rein, splint etc. The loose ends should be secured to your shirt with safety pins or another method to keep it from looking unruly.

FOXHUNTING 101 – THE BREECHES
Breeches are another Fox Hunting 101 must. Breeches are traditionally tan but canary, different shades of brown such as buff, and rust are also acceptable. White breeches should only be worn with frock coats. Bear in mind that you will be riding in cold weather and make sure your breeches will be up to the job of keeping you warm, it is not uncommon for riders to wear thermal underwear underneath their breeches. Plain, black leather tall boots are the most appropriate for field members and guests.

The most traditional helmets are black velvet safety helmets with the ribbon stitched up. It is a good idea to check the safety standards of the hunt you will be riding with but most require an ASTM approved helmet.

Riders in the field are allowed to carry a brown leather hunt whip (or Hunt Crop) but must not use it unless instructed to digital scope do so by their field master.

A GOOD FOXHUNTING 101 TIP TO REMEMBER:
When hunting with an unfamiliar or new hunt, it is always a good idea to contact the Hunt Master or Hunt Secretary to find out what their preferences are when it comes to rider appearance, as it tends to differ slightly from hunt to hunt. For example, some prefer certain colors of breeches or vests, it never hurts to ask!

That concludes our first installment of the Fox Hunting 101 blog series, we hope this helps! You can get fitted out for hunt season by going to this page for Men’s Fox Hunting Apparel and this page for Women’s Fox Hunting Apparel

Sporting goods refer to the equipment, apparel, and accessories used in various sports and physical activities. These goods can range from balls, bats, gloves, and shoes, to more specialized equipment like weightlifting belts and cycling shoes. Sporting goods are essential for any athlete, regardless of their skill level or sport. In this guide, we will explore the various types of sporting goods and their uses.

Types of Sporting Goods:
Balls:
Balls are the most commonly used sporting goods across different sports. They are used in games like soccer, basketball, volleyball, rugby, and tennis. Balls come in different sizes, weights, and materials depending on the sport. Soccer balls are usually made of synthetic leather or PVC, while basketballs are made of rubber or composite leather. Volleyballs are usually made of synthetic leather, and rugby balls are made of leather. The type of ball you need will depend on the sport you are playing.

Bats:
Bats are primarily used in sports like baseball, softball, and cricket. These bats are made of wood or metal, depending on the sport. Wooden bats are used in professional baseball, while metal bats are used in amateur leagues. The type of bat you need will depend on the sport you are playing.

Gloves:
Gloves are essential for sports like baseball, softball, and boxing. These gloves are designed to protect the hands from impact and provide better grip. Boxing gloves are made of foam padding covered with leather, while baseball and softball gloves are made of leather. The type of glove you need will depend on the sport you are playing.

Shoes:
Shoes are essential for any sport or physical activity. They provide support, comfort, and grip. Sports shoes come in different types and designs depending on the sport. Running shoes are designed for running, basketball shoes for basketball, soccer shoes for soccer, and so on. The type of shoe you need will depend on the sport you are playing.

Protective gear:
Protective gear is essential for sports like football, hockey, and lacrosse. These sports involve a lot of contact, so it's important to have the right protective gear to prevent injuries. Protective gear includes helmets, pads, mouthguards, and shin guards. The type of protective gear you need will depend on the sport you are playing.

Fitness equipment:
Fitness equipment includes weights, resistance bands, and exercise machines. These items are used for strength training and conditioning. Weightlifting belts and gloves are also considered fitness equipment. The type of fitness equipment you need will depend on your fitness goals and level of experience.

Accessories:
Sporting goods accessories include items like water bottles, towels, and sweatbands. These accessories are essential for any athlete, as they provide comfort and convenience during physical activity. The type of accessory you need will depend on the sport or activity you are doing.

How to Choose Sporting Goods:
When choosing sporting goods, there are several factors you need to consider. These factors include:

Your skill level:
Your skill level will determine the type of sporting goods you need. If you are a beginner, you may not need high-end equipment. However, if you are a professional athlete, you will need high-quality equipment that can withstand intense use.

Your sport:
The type of sport you are playing will determine the type of equipment you need. Different sports require different ir monocular equipment, so make sure you choose the right equipment for your sport.

Your budget:
Sporting goods can be expensive, so it's important to set a budget before you start shopping. Determine how much you are willing to spend and look for equipment within your budget.

Quality:
The quality of the equipment you choose is important, as it will determine how long the equipment lasts and how well it performs. Look for equipment made from high-quality materials and with durable construction.

Comfort:
Comfort is also an important factor to consider when choosing sporting goods. Equipment that is comfortable to wear or use will allow you to focus on your sport or activity without distractions.

Fit:
The fit of your equipment is critical to its performance and your safety. Choose equipment that fits properly and is appropriate for your body type and size.

Brand reputation:
Research the reputation of the brands you are considering. Look for reviews and feedback from other athletes to help you make an informed decision.

Maintenance and Care:
Proper maintenance and care are essential to prolong the life of your sporting goods and ensure they perform optimally. Here are some tips to help you maintain your equipment:

Clean your equipment regularly:
Cleaning your equipment after each use helps to remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria that can cause damage and odors. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down your equipment, and let it air dry.

Store your equipment properly:
Storing your equipment in a cool, dry place can help to prevent damage from moisture and humidity. Keep your equipment away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Check for wear and tear:
Regularly inspect your equipment for signs of wear and tear. Look for frayed edges, cracks, or holes. Replace any damaged equipment to avoid the risk of injury.

Follow manufacturer instructions:
Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance of your equipment. This will ensure that you are using the correct cleaning methods and that you do not damage your equipment.

Conclusion:
Sporting goods are essential for any athlete or individual engaging in physical activity. Choosing the right equipment can improve performance, prevent injuries, and provide comfort and convenience. When choosing sporting goods, consider your skill level, sport, budget, quality, comfort, fit, and brand reputation. Proper maintenance and care are essential to prolong the life of your equipment and ensure it performs optimally. With the right equipment and proper care, you can achieve your fitness goals and enjoy your favorite sports and activities safely and comfortably.