How to Make Coconut Bread

Take a tropical break the next time you have tea or breakfast. Make an easy coconut bread that's great for toasting or eating plain. It's full of flaked coconut and has a hint of cinnamon, but not a lot of sugar so it's a great choice for a snack. If you're looking for coconut bread that's moist and cake-like, make a tender coconut bread that has shredded coconut and coconut extract.

[Edit]Ingredients

[Edit]Simple Coconut Quick Bread

• 2 eggs
• of milk
• of vanilla
• 2 1/2 cups (315 g) of all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) of salt
• 2 teaspoons (10 g) of baking powder
• 2 teaspoons (4 g) of cinnamon
• 1 cup (200 g) of white sugar
• 1 1/2 cups (140 g) of flaked coconut
• 6 tablespoons (84 g) of melted butter

Makes 1 loaf

[Edit]Gluten-Free Coconut Bread

• 1 cup (93 g) of unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
• 1 1/2 cups (240 g) of white rice flour
• 3/4 cup (90 g) of sorghum flour
• 3/4 cup (90 g) of tapioca starch
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 g) of baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 g) of baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon (3.5 g) of kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of xanthan gum
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) of sugar
• of unsweetened coconut milk
• of vegetable oil
• of coconut extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (23 g) of unsweetened coconut flakes

Makes 1 loaf

[Edit]Moist Coconut Bread with Sweet Glaze

• 3 cups (360 g) of all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (10 g) of baking powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon (2.5 g) of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) of salt
• 2 cups (400 g) of sugar
• of vegetable oil
• 4 eggs, lightly beaten
• of coconut extract
• of buttermilk
• 1 cup (92 g) of shredded coconut

Makes 2 loaves

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Simple Coconut Quick Bread

1. Preheat the oven to and grease a loaf pan. Get out an loaf pan and spray the inside with nonstick spray. If you don't have spray, lightly spread butter or shortening inside the pan and coat it with flour. Then, tap out the excess flour and set the pan aside.^[1]
   
   • If you'd rather make the bread into muffins, grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. Mix 2 eggs with milk and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Crack the eggs into a small bowl and pour in of milk and of vanilla. Whisk the wet ingredients until the egg yolks are incorporated.^[2]
   
   
   • For an extra coconut flavor, substitute the same amount of coconut milk for the milk.
3. Whisk the flour, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Get out another mixing bowl and put 2 1/2 cups (315 g) of flour into it. Add 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) of salt, 2 teaspoons (10 g) of baking powder, and 2 teaspoons (4 g) of cinnamon. Then, whisk for about 10 seconds to combine the dry ingredients.^[3]
   
   
   • If you like a heavily spiced bread, add 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of ground nutmeg.
   • To let more of the coconut flavor shine, reduce the cinnamon to 1 teaspoon (2 g).
4. Stir sugar and flaked coconut into the dry mixture. Pour 1 cup (200 g) of white sugar into the large mixing bowl and add 1 1/2 cups (140 g) of flaked coconut. Stir until the sugar and coconut are combined.^[4]
   
   
   • If you don't have flaked coconut, it's fine to substitute the same amount of shredded coconut.
5. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir in melted butter. Use the back of a spoon to make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the wet mixture and stir the batter just until the dry ingredients absorb the wet mixture. Then, stir in 6 tablespoons (84 g) of melted butter and stop mixing when the batter is smooth.^[5]
   
   
   • Try not to overmix the coconut bread batter or your bread will be tough.
6. Spread the batter in the greased loaf pan. Use a rubber spatula to spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Then, use the back of the spoon or an offset spatula to smooth the top of the batter so it's level.
   
   
   • If you're filling a muffin tin, divide the batter evenly between the 12 cavities.
7. Bake the coconut bread for 1 to 1 1/4 hours. Put the pan in the oven and bake the coconut bread until the edges pull away from the sides of the pan. To test if the bread is done, stick a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the bread. The tester will come out clean if the bread is done.^[6]
   
   • If there's still batter sticking to the toothpick or cake tester, bake the bread for another 5 minutes and check it again.
   • If you're baking muffins, start checking them after 20 minutes.
8. Cool the coconut bread in the pan for 5 minutes. Once the bread is done, wear oven mitts to take it out of the oven. Set the pan on the stove but don't take the bread out of it. Leave the bread to cool for 5 minutes so it's easier to handle and holds its shape.^[7]
   
9. Turn the bread onto a wire rack to finish cooling. Set a wire rack on the counter and carefully flip the bread out of the pan onto the rack. Although you can cut the bread while it's still warm, you'll get neater slices if you wait until the bread is completely cooled before you cut it. Serve the coconut bread with butter or dust it with powdered sugar for an extra treat.^[8]
   
   • Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

[Edit]Gluten-Free Coconut Bread

1. Preheat the oven to and line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Get out an loaf pan and cut a piece of parchment paper so it's large enough to cover the bottom and long sides of the pan. Push the paper into the loaf pan and set it aside.^[9]
   
   • If you don't have parchment paper, you can spray the inside of the pan with nonstick baking spray.
2. Whisk the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. Get out a medium-sized mixing bowl and pour in 1 1/2 cups (240 g) of white rice flour, 3/4 cup (90 g) of sorghum flour, and 3/4 cup (90 g) of tapioca starch. Then, whisk in 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 g) of baking powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 g) of baking soda, 3/4 teaspoon (3.5 g) of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of xanthan gum.^[10]
   
   
   • Xanthan gum is a food additive that acts as a gluten-substitute so your bread rises better. If you can't find it, feel free to skip it since your bread also has baking powder to rise.
3. Beat sugar with coconut milk, oil, and coconut extract in a separate bowl. Put 1 1/2 cups (300 g) of sugar into a large mixing bowl and add of unsweetened coconut milk along with of vegetable oil and of coconut extract. Then, beat the wet ingredients with a hand mixer on medium speed for about 4 minutes so the sugar dissolves.^[11]
   
   
   • If you don't have a hand mixer, whisk the mixture by hand for 6 to 8 minutes.
4. Beat 4 large eggs into the wet mixture, 1 at a time. Turn off the mixer and crack 1 egg into the bowl with the wet mixture. Beat the mixture for about 30 seconds before you turn off the beater and add another egg. Keep beating in the eggs 1 at a time and mixing for 30 seconds after each.^[12]
   
   
5. Mix in the dry ingredients and beat the batter for 5 minutes. Turn your hand mixer to low and slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Once the dry ingredients are absorbed, turn the mixer to medium speed and beat the batter for 5 minutes.^[13]
   
   
   • Stop and scrape the sides of the bowl once or twice while you're mixing the batter.
6. Stir in 1 cup (93 g) of unsweetened shredded coconut. Put the toasted shredded coconut into the batter and stir just until the coconut is incorporated. Don't use the flaked coconut since you'll be using it to garnish the top of the bread.^[14]
   
   
   
7. Spread the batter in the pan and scatter coconut flakes on top. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and scrape the sides of the bowl to get all of the batter in. Then, sprinkle 1/4 cup (23 g) of unsweetened coconut flakes over the top of the batter.^[15]
   
   
   • If you don't want the coconut bread to have coconut flakes on top, skip this step.
8. Bake the coconut bread for 80-95 minutes. Bake the bread for 80 minutes before you check it. To test if it's done, stick a toothpick into the center of the bread. The toothpick should come out clean if the bread's done.^[16]
   
   • If the toothpick has batter on it, bake the bread for 5 minutes before you check it again.
9. Remove the bread from the pan and cool it on a wire rack. Once your coconut bread is baked, wear oven mitts to take it out of the oven. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully flip it onto a wire rack and let it cool completely before you slice it.^[17]
   
   
   
   • Put the cooled bread into an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to 4 days.

[Edit]Moist Coconut Bread with Sweet Glaze

1. Preheat the oven to and grease 2 loaf pans. Set 2 loaf pans on the counter and spray the insides with nonstick spray. If you don't want to use nonstick spray, spread a thin layer of butter or shortening inside each pan and coat them with flour. Then, shake out the excess flour and put the pan aside.^[18]
   
   
   • You can use a pan, but you'll need to reduce the cooking time by 10 minutes.
2. Mix the sugar, buttermilk, oil, eggs, and coconut extract in a bowl. Get out a big mixing bowl and pour in 2 cups (400 g) of sugar. Add of buttermilk, of vegetable oil, 4 lightly beaten eggs, and of coconut extract. Then, whisk until the eggs are incorporated.^[19]
   
   
   • If you don't have coconut extract, substitute the same amount of vanilla extract.
3. Whisk the dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Place another large bowl on the counter and put 3 cups (360 g) of all-purpose flour into it. Add 2 teaspoons (10 g) of baking powder, 1⁄2 teaspoon (2.5 g) of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon (5 g) of salt to the bowl. Then, whisk for 30 seconds so the leaveners are really well mixed.^[20]
   
   
   • Check the expiration dates on your baking powder and baking soda. If you accidentally use expired leaveners, your coconut bread won't rise.
4. Stir the dry ingredients and coconut into the wet ingredients to make batter. Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet mixture. Stop mixing just as soon as the dry ingredients are absorbed. Then, gently stir in 1 cup (92 g) of shredded coconut.^[21]
   
   
   • For a richer flavor, toast the shredded coconut before you stir it into the batter.
5. Divide the batter between the pans. Spoon half of the batter into each greased loaf pan and use the back of the spoon to spread the batter so it's level. If you have a hard time eyeballing this, scoop the batter into the pans with a measuring cup so you can ensure that they're evenly filled.
   
   
   
6. Bake the bread for 50 to 60 minutes. Put the loaves in the oven and bake them until they're browned. To test if the bread's done, stick a toothpick into the center of one to see if only a few crumbs stick to it.^[22]
   
   
   
   • If the toothpick is coated with batter when you pull it out, bake the bread for another 5 minutes before you check it again.
   • To store the coconut bread, put it into an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to 5 days.

[Edit]Tips

• For a fruity coconut bread that's popular in the Caribbean, add 1/4 cup (36 g) of raisins to the batter along with the coconut.^[23]
• If your coconut bread looks like it's browning too much, lay a sheet of aluminum foil over the top so you can finish baking the bread.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Simple Coconut Quick Bread

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• loaf pan
• Toothpick or cake tester
• Wire rack

[Edit]Gluten-Free Coconut Bread

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spoon
• Toothpick
• loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

[Edit]Moist Coconut Bread

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• 2 loaf pans
• Toothpick or cake tester
• Wire rack
• Spoon or hand mixer
• Piping bag, optional

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://smittenkitchen.com/2013/03/coconut-bread/
2. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2002/01/09/dining/the-egg-master-of-sydney.html
3. ↑ https://smittenkitchen.com/2013/03/coconut-bread/
4. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2002/01/09/dining/the-egg-master-of-sydney.html
5. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2002/01/09/dining/the-egg-master-of-sydney.html
6. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2002/01/09/dining/the-egg-master-of-sydney.html
7. ↑ https://smittenkitchen.com/2013/03/coconut-bread/
8. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2002/01/09/dining/the-egg-master-of-sydney.html
9. ↑ https://youtu.be/wkWGfZ7SnE4?t=59
10. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/gluten-free-coconut-bread
11. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/gluten-free-coconut-bread
12. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/gluten-free-coconut-bread
13. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/gluten-free-coconut-bread
14. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/gluten-free-coconut-bread
15. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/gluten-free-coconut-bread
16. ↑ https://youtu.be/wkWGfZ7SnE4?t=65
17. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/gluten-free-coconut-bread
18. ↑ https://smittenkitchen.com/2013/03/coconut-bread/
19. ↑ https://www.food.com/recipe/tropical-coconut-bread-29185
20. ↑ https://www.food.com/recipe/tropical-coconut-bread-29185
21. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/member/views/jamaican-coconut-bread-50055488
22. ↑ https://youtu.be/csnHkRBydhQ?t=146
23. ↑ https://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/jamaican-coconut-bread

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How to Fix a Crack in a Water Bottle

Cracked water bottles are a huge pain and can leave you with plenty of unexpected messes to clean up. The best thing to do is simply buy a new one, but if you find yourself in a bind, there are a couple of options. If you’re looking for a more long-term solution, apply some silicone sealant to the problem spot. If you’re on the market for a quick fix, use waterproof tape instead. Avoid using superglue, since it's not food-safe and isn't likely to work all that well.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Using Food-Grade Silicone Sealant

1. Apply a line of food-grade silicone sealant on top of the crack. Search online for a bottle of silicone sealant, which works like a waterproof glue. Before making any purchases, double-check that the sealant is food-grade since you’ll be drinking out of the repaired water bottle.^[1] Squeeze out a consistent line of sealant along the crack, as though you’re gluing both ends of the fissure together.
   
   • Spread the sealant along the entire crack.
   • Silicone sealant bottles come pretty small. Depending on the brand, you can get one for less than $10.
2. Wait for the sealant to cure completely. Read the sealant label to see how much time the product needs to dry, or cure, completely. Don’t pour any water into the bottle until that amount of time has passed.
   
   • You may need to wait several hours before you can use your water bottle again.
3. Test out your water bottle and see if it leaks. Fill your water bottle up and tighten the lid. As you did before, flip and shake your bottle around and see if you’ve successfully repaired it. Hopefully, your water bottle will be fixed and ready to go!
   

[Edit]Taping as a Temporary Fix

1. Find exactly where the crack is located. Look along the sides or bottom of your bottle for any obvious cracks or fissures. If you can’t find the crack right away, shake the bottle around to see where the source of the leak is.^[2]
   
2. Apply a strip of waterproof tape over the crack. Grab a roll of waterproof tape and rip off a strip that’s large enough to cover the fissure. Center the tape over the crack in the same way you’d cover a scrape with a bandage. Press along the edges of the tape to ensure that it’s in place.^[3]
   
   • Alternatively, use plumber’s tape instead.^[4]
3. Check your bottle to see if it’s still leaking. Fill your water bottle up with water, then shake it around to see if there are any leaks. If water is still leaking out, you may need to use a bigger strip of tape.
   

[Edit]Warnings

• If your water bottle is severely cracked, then repairs might be more trouble than they’re worth. You can find a cheap replacement online, or in any store that sells water bottles and sporting equipment.

[Edit]Things You’ll Need

[Edit]Using Food-Grade Silicone Sealant

• Food-grade silicone sealant

[Edit]Taping as a Temporary Fix

• Waterproof tape

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://news.thomasnet.com/fullstory/food-grade-silicone-sealant-comes-in-standard-custom-colors-609101
2. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=PlPe-ovKceQ&t=0m2s
3. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0xzN6FM5x_E&t=0m11s
4. ↑ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=PlPe-ovKceQ&t=0m8s

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How to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a common cooking ingredient, and some people report that it has helped them lose weight, improve their immune system, and regulate their blood sugar.^[1] You can add a little ACV into your diet each day to cleanse your body and detox. Whether you mix it into drinks or your meals, you can start your ACV detox easily!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Raw

1. Get raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. Look in the vinegar section at your local supermarket for apple cider vinegar. Get ACV with sediment settled on the bottom of the bottle. This is known as the “mother” and contains helpful enzymes and probiotics. Avoid getting pasteurized ACV since it won’t have the same properties as unfiltered vinegar.^[2]
   
   • If you cannot find raw apple cider vinegar in stores, search online stores.
2. Dilute the apple cider vinegar in of water. By itself, apple cider vinegar is extremely acidic and could harm your teeth and throat if taken alone. Shake the bottle of ACV before measuring out to stir into your cup of water.^[3]
   
   • You can use either hot or cold water.
   • Try mixing the ACV with other liquids, such as fruit juice, tea, or apple cider, for a different flavor.
   • There have been case reports of people having caustic injury to their esophagus from drinking apple cider vinegar.^[4]
3. Drink ACV 20 minutes before meals to suppress your appetite and control glucose levels. Taking ACV before your meal could help stimulate your digestive system and regulate blood sugar levels as you eat. Make sure to dilute your apple cider vinegar so it isn’t as acidic.^[5]
   
   • Consult with a doctor before starting an ACV regimen if you’re prescribed insulin or diuretic medications. Apple cider vinegar may weaken the medicine.
4. Continue taking apple cider vinegar for 2-4 weeks. To keep getting health benefits, take apple cider vinegar 2-3 times daily. Evenly spread your intake of ACV throughout the day, and take it while you’re on an empty stomach. Continue the regimen for up to a month before reducing your intake to daily in the morning.^[6]
   
   • You may continue taking apple cider vinegar every day, or repeat detox regimens 3-4 times a year.

[Edit]Masking the Flavor of Apple Cider Vinegar

1. Mix in 1-2 tsp (4-8 g) of sugar or artificial sweetener to hide the vinegar’s acidity. Use your favorite sweetener and stir it into the apple cider vinegar to make your drink taste better. Mix the drink until the sugar is completely dissolved.^[7]
   
   • Replace the sweetener with 1 tbsp (21.25 g) of honey for a natural sweetener.
2. Add cinnamon or cayenne pepper for added nutritional value. Sprinkle 1 tsp (2.3 g) of ground cinnamon or cayenne pepper to add more antioxidants to your drink.^[8] Cinnamon and pepper will add a spicier flavor to your drink as well as help your body burn calories. Stir the spice into your drink until it’s thoroughly mixed.^[9]
   
   • Put a cinnamon stick into a hot drink to steep the flavor.
3. Put in of lemon juice to make the drink more tart. You can either squeeze the juice from 2 lemons or use prepackaged lemon juice. Adjust the amount of lemon juice you put in your drink depending on how sour you want it to taste.^[10]
   
   • Warm up your drink and add 1 tbsp (21.25 g) of honey to help with a sore throat.
4. Mix apple cider vinegar into a salad dressing. Mix together of olive oil, of apple cider vinegar, 1 clove of minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon (2.8 g) of salt in a bowl. Stir the dressing together until it’s well-combined. Pour a third of the dressing onto your salad and refrigerate the rest.^[11]
   
   • You can also mix of ACV into your favorite store-bought dressing.
5. Marinate meats and vegetables in apple cider vinegar. Mix 2 parts of cooking oil with 1 part apple cider vinegar in a resealable plastic bag. Stir in spices, like cayenne pepper, salt, and garlic powder. When the marinade is well-combined, put in your choice of meat or vegetables and let them soak up the flavors for 3-4 hours before cooking.^[12]
   
   • Experiment with different flavors. If you want a saltier marinade, add in each of Worcestershire and soy sauce.
6. Put apple cider vinegar in your soups or stews. Soups and stews are filled with a variety of flavors that will mask the acidity of your apple cider vinegar. Put into your bowl of soup and stir it thoroughly. When you’ve finished your soup, make sure to drink the broth to get all of your ACV.^[13]
   
   • Apple cider vinegar can be added to store-bought or homemade soup.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Warnings

• As of October 2018, there is not much research to back up the health claims of apple cider vinegar.^[14][15]
• Apple cider vinegar could affect how insulin or diuretic medication works if you’re diabetic. Consult with your doctor before starting a detox regimen.^[16]
• Since it’s very acidic, pure apple cider vinegar could erode tooth enamel. Make sure to dilute the vinegar before ingesting it.^[17]
• Apple cider vinegar can erode the lining of your gut, which could potentially cause you harm.^[18]

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320930.php
2. ↑ https://youtu.be/pkq6wUlkBYM?t=88
3. ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320930.php
4. ↑ [v161569_b01]. 11 September 2020.
5. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/2017/04/18/health/apple-cider-vinegar-uses/index.html
6. ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320930.php
7. ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320930.php
8. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet-nutrition/a47369/health-benefits-of-cinnamon/
9. ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267248.php
10. ↑ https://youtu.be/pkq6wUlkBYM?t=175
11. ↑ https://www.yummymummykitchen.com/2017/11/apple-cider-vinaigrette.html
12. ↑ https://www.geniuskitchen.com/recipe/apple-cider-vinegar-marinade-121123
13. ↑ https://togetherasfamily.com/chicken-detox-soup/
14. ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320930.php
15. ↑ [v161569_b01]. 11 September 2020.
16. ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320930.php
17. ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320930.php
18. ↑ [v161569_b01]. 11 September 2020.

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How to Ask a Girl to Be Your Girlfriend

If you’ve met someone special and you’ve been hanging out for a while, you might feel like it’s time to pop the question (the girlfriend question, of course!). Thinking about asking someone to be your official girlfriend might have you freaked, so remember that it’s okay to be nervous. By planning ahead just a little bit and keeping some pointers in mind, you can get the question out as painlessly as possible. If the timing is right and she likes you back, you might just land a girlfriend!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]The Casual Approach

1. Get to know her. If you’re thinking about asking someone to be your girlfriend, you might already know a little bit about her. Try to chat with her and find out what she likes, dislikes, what her hobbies are, and what she does for fun. If you feel up to it, you can even add in a little bit of flirting here and there (a casual hand touch or a compliment would work great here).^[1]
   
   • You can chat with her one on one, or talk in a group setting, if you’re more comfortable that way.
   • If you’ve been on a few dates before, you might already know a lot about her, which is great!
2. Catch her at the right time. Try to pick a time to talk when there aren’t a ton of distractions or people listening. You can meet up in a public park, take a walk around the block, or head to a small coffee shop for some one on one time.^[2][3]
   
   • If the timing doesn’t feel right or you run into a group of people, you can save your question for next time. Don’t feel pressured to ask if it doesn’t feel right!
3. Engage in some light conversation. Ask her about her day, tell her a funny story, or ask what she’s been up to. Even if you asked to hang out specifically so you could ask her to be your girlfriend, there’s no rush!^[4]
   
   • Compliments are a great go-to if you aren’t sure what to say. You could try something like, “Your outfit looks really nice today,” or, “I just love your laugh!”^[5]
   • You can also keep it casual with questions like, “So how is work going?” or, “Have you been staying cool in the hot weather?”
4. Confess your feelings and ask her to be your girlfriend. When there’s a lull in the conversation, take it to a more serious territory. Tell her that you like her and ask her if she’d like to be your girlfriend. This is the most nerve-wracking part, but you can do it!^[6]
   
   • Try something like, “So we’ve been hanging out for a little while, and I’m starting to have feelings for you. Would you like to be my girlfriend?”
   • Or, “We’ve been friends for so long, I feel like I know you so well. I really like you, and I wanted to ask if you’d like to be my girlfriend.”
5. Respond calmly, no matter what her reply is. If she says yes, it’s time to celebrate! You can smile, laugh, and confess how nervous you were about asking her. From there, you can steer the conversation in another direction to move on with your night.^[7]
   
   • If she says no thanks or that she’s not ready to be in a relationship, don’t sweat it. Everyone’s situation is different, and chances are, it doesn’t have much to do with you anyway. You can continue hanging out with her or you can wrap up the night and head home.

[Edit]The Heartfelt Approach

1. Befriend her. Take the time to get to know her as a close friend before trying to progress to something more. Learn about her friends, her family, and what she likes to do for fun to see if you two would be a good match.^[8]
   
   • This will also give you both time to figure out if you have feelings for each other.
2. Ask her to spend time with you one on one. Once you reach a level of friendship that allows the two of you to hang out without being in a group, invite her to spend some time with you alone. You could go to a park, a coffee shop, or even out to dinner.^[9]
   
   • If you want to be cautious, ask her to visit someplace familiar yet different, like a different coffee shop or a nearby park that you have both talked about wanting to visit.
   • If you want to be a little bolder, ask her to spend the afternoon or evening with you without revealing your plans. You can take her out for a nice meal, an interesting show, or a night of dancing.
3. Consider giving her a small, inexpensive gift. Unless you frequently throw gifts her way, a gift lets the girl know that there is something different—and special—about your time together this day when compared to any other day. A bouquet of flowers is always nice, or a box of chocolates to satiate her sweet tooth.^[10]
   
   • Giving her a gift isn’t strictly necessary, so don’t go out and get one if it doesn’t feel right.
   • You could also give her something that reminds her of an inside joke you two have.
4. Tell her seriously how you feel. After you have spent some time enjoying each other's company, sit down with her and tell her that you have something important to say. Once you have her undivided attention, tell her honestly that you have strong feelings for her and would like her to be your girlfriend.^[11]
   
   • Try something like, “I really enjoy the time I spend with you and consider you an important part of my life. I can't help but have feelings for you past those of friendship, though. If you feel the same way, or think you could see me as a boyfriend, then I'd like to go out with you.”
5. Accept her answer no matter what. If she says yes, then you’re in the clear! You can keep hanging out and celebrate the fact that you two are now a couple. Maybe snap a few quick selfies to remember the moment for the rest of time.^[12]
   
   • If she doesn’t accept, that’s okay too. You two can continue hanging out as friends as you look for romance somewhere else.

[Edit]Asking Over Text

1. Strike up a casual conversation. Start out with a simple opener that gets the conversation flowing. You could ask her what she’s been up to, how her day is going, or what her plans are for the weekend. Try to avoid a simple “hey,” since that doesn’t lead to much.^[13]
   
   • Try something like, “Hey! How did the test go today?”
   • Or, “Got any plans for the nice weather this weekend?”
2. Ask her a few questions about her day. Continue on with your text convo as smoothly as possible. You can see where the conversation leads naturally, or you can steer it by asking her questions about her day and what she’s doing.^[14]
   
   • Good examples include, “How are you feeling today?” “What have you been up to?” and “Did you have a nice day off?”
   • If she’s taking a long time to reply, don’t sweat it—she’s probably just busy. You can wait until she replies to continue the conversation or just try it again another day.
3. Send her some compliments or sweet messages. As your texting progresses, try flirting subtly with her by complimenting her or telling her how much you miss her. There’s a fine balance between laying it on too thick and being sweet, so try to toe it as carefully as possible!^[15]
   
   • Try something like, “You always make me laugh.”
   • Or, “I wish I could see your pretty face right now.”
   • You could even sprinkle in a few Emojis here and there to amp up the romance.
4. Tell her that you like her. If you’re getting vibes that she might like you too, go ahead and let her know. You don’t have to be super serious about it, so keep it fun and casual. This is a text convo, after all!^[16]
   
   • Try something like, “Hey, so I really like you.”
   • Telling someone about your feelings over text isn’t ideal, but if you live far away or can’t meet up, it might be the only option you have.
5. Pop the question directly. After you confess your feelings to her, it’s time to ask the big question. Go ahead and send that text message, even if it makes you super nervous. If you don’t ask, you’ll never know!^[17]
   
   • A direct approach would be something like, “Will you be my girlfriend?”
   • Or you could try, “I’d love it if we could make our relationship official.”
6. Accept her response with grace. If she says yes, wahoo! You can ask her to meet up sometime soon face to face, or you can call her on the phone to express how happy you are. Your efforts paid off, and now you have the girlfriend of your dreams.^[18]
   
   • If she says no, that’s okay too. Let her know that you respect her decision, and try to remain friends, if you can.

[Edit]Tips

• It can be really nerve-wracking to ask someone out, but you’ll never know if you don’t try.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Be a Good Girlfriend
• Be Romantic with Your Girlfriend
• Know if Your Girlfriend Wants to Have Sex With You
• Know if Your Girlfriend Is Cheating on You
• Make Your Girlfriend Happy
• Keep a Phone Conversation Going with Your Girlfriend
• Break Up with Your Girlfriend Nicely
• Talk to Your Girlfriend on the Phone
• Buy Your Girlfriend the Perfect Gift

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.mantelligence.com/how-to-ask-a-girl-to-be-your-girlfriend/
2. ↑ [v161265_b01]. 7 February 2020.
3. ↑ https://dating.lovetoknow.com/How_to_Ask_a_Girl_to_Be_Your_Girlfriend
4. ↑ https://truelovewords.com/effective-approaches-to-ask-a-girl-to-be-your-girlfriend/
5. ↑ [v161265_b01]. 7 February 2020.
6. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-attraction-doctor/201105/just-asking-it-part-ii-why-dating-partners-say-yes
7. ↑ https://www.mantelligence.com/how-to-ask-a-girl-to-be-your-girlfriend/
8. ↑ https://dating.lovetoknow.com/How_to_Ask_a_Girl_to_Be_Your_Girlfriend
9. ↑ https://www.mantelligence.com/how-to-ask-a-girl-to-be-your-girlfriend/
10. ↑ https://truelovewords.com/effective-approaches-to-ask-a-girl-to-be-your-girlfriend/
11. ↑ https://truelovewords.com/effective-approaches-to-ask-a-girl-to-be-your-girlfriend/
12. ↑ https://dating.lovetoknow.com/How_to_Ask_a_Girl_to_Be_Your_Girlfriend
13. ↑ https://www.mantelligence.com/how-to-ask-a-girl-out-over-text/
14. ↑ https://www.mantelligence.com/how-to-ask-a-girl-out-over-text/
15. ↑ https://social.techjunkie.com/how-to-ask-a-girl-to-be-your-girlfriend/
16. ↑ https://www.seventeen.com/celebrity/a13674/top-valentines-day-flirty-texts/
17. ↑ https://www.seventeen.com/celebrity/a13674/top-valentines-day-flirty-texts/
18. ↑ https://www.mantelligence.com/how-to-ask-a-girl-out-over-text/

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How to Crochet a Bracelet

Bracelets might be one of the best beginner crochet projects around. You only need to know a few simple stitches and have a few minutes to make a truly unique piece of jewelry. If you're really new to crochet, start with an easy friendship bracelet that you work using just chain stitches. To make your bracelet a little flashy, work beads along the bracelet. Once you get started, you'll love making these bracelets!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Simple Friendship Bracelet

1. Make a slip knot with worsted weight yarn. Get out a fun color of worsted weight yarn and pull about away from the yarn ball. Twist the end of the yarn into a loop and slip your thumb and pointer finger through the loop. Pinch the yarn tail while you pull down on the working yarn with your other hand. This makes a slip knot.^[1]
   
   
   • If you're not sure if you made the slip knot correctly, keep pulling the yarn in opposite directions. A slip knot will come undone instead of tightening into a sturdy knot.
2. Slide the slip knot onto a size US G6 (4.00 mm) crochet hook. Once you put the loop behind the point of the crochet hook, pull gently until the yarn is snug. Resist the urge to pull tightly or it will be tricky to make chain stitches for your bracelet.^[2]
   
   
3. Make a chain stitch to start your bracelet. Wrap the yarn around the hook once and pull it through the loop. This forms a new chain stitch. Don't pull the working yarn tightly after you make the chain stitch or you'll have a hard time working more stitches.^[3]
   
   
4. Chain enough stitches to wrap the bracelet around your wrist. Keep making chains until you have a long crocheted cord. Check the bracelet length every once in a while by wrapping it around your wrist. Stop crocheting chain stitches once you can bring the ends of the bracelet together at your wrist.^[4]
   
   
   • For example, make around 30 chains for a large bracelet or 20 chains for a small one.
   • If you're making the friendship bracelet for a friend, measure their wrist so you know how long to make the chain.
   • You can crochet the bracelet so it's a lot longer than your wrist. This way, you can wrap the bracelet around your wrist several times before you tie it.
5. Cut the yarn and pull it through your last chain. Leave a yarn tail when you make the cut. Then, pull your hook away so the yarn draws through the last chain stitch you made.^[5]
   
   
   • You'll use this yarn tail to tie the bracelet around your wrist.
6. Wrap the bracelet around your wrist and tie a square knot with the ends. To make it easier to tie, grab the yarn tail with the fingers so you can hold it in your palm. Wrap the other end of the bracelet around your wrist and hold it close to your body so you can tie a basic square knot with the ends.
   
   
   
   • It is tricky to tie a bracelet around your own wrist, so ask a friend to tie your friendship bracelet if you're struggling.
   • To make a thick friendship bracelet, make 3 of these simple friendship bracelets. Then, braid them together and tie them around your wrist.

[Edit]Braided Crocheted Cuff

1. Leave an yarn tail and make a slip knot. Get out lightweight yarn in any color and pull a long strand of yarn from the skein, but don't cut it. Make a slip knot about from the end of the yarn tail.^[6]
   
   
   • Choose yarn that's comfortable since you don't want a rough bracelet to scratch your wrist.
2. Slide the slip knot onto a size US 7 (4.5 mm) crochet hook. Slip the loop behind the point of your crochet hook and pull on the yarn until it's secure on the hook. Don't pull too tightly or you'll have a hard time working your foundation stitches.^[7]
   
   
   • Read the yarn package to see which crochet hook it recommends you use. If you're using a thinner yard, you'll need to use a smaller hook, for instance.
3. Make 3 chain stitches to start a foundation half-double crochet (FHDC) stitch. Wrap the yarn around your hook once and pull it through to make a chain. Repeat this 2 more times to make 3 chain stitches that will become a foundation half-double crochet.^[8]
   
   
   • You're working half-double crochet stitches to form the bracelet without having to make a foundation chain row.
4. Insert your hook into the first chain and pull up a loop. Wrap the yarn over your hook once and push the hook into the first chain that you made. Then, yarn over once and pull the hook through the loop. This makes a foundation half-double crochet stitch.^[9]
   
   
5. Wrap the yarn over the hook and pull it through to finish the foundation HDC. To give you a foundation chain underneath your work, wrap the yarn around your hook once and pull it through the first loop on your hook. Then, yarn over once and pull through all 3 loops on your hook.^[10]
   
   
   • This finishes 1 foundation HDC stitch. If your stitches are a little loose, pull the yarn tail until the work tightens a little.
6. Work FHDC stitches until you can wrap the strip around your wrist 3 1/2 times. To work the length of the bracelet, just keep making FHDC stitches until you have a really long strip. To tell if you've made it long enough, hold the end at your wrist and wrap the strip around your wrist 3 1/2 times.^[11]
   
   
   • For example, if your wrist measures around, make your strip long.
7. Fold the strip into thirds and slip stitch to join the bracelet. Spread the crocheted strip straight and pull 1 end back towards the other end. Wrap the strip in a loop that curves away to bend the strip into thirds. Then, push your hook into the end with the working yarn so it goes through the strip that's hanging loose. Make 2 slip stitches to pinch all three strips together.^[12]
   
   
   • This keeps the folded strips in place while you braid the bracelet.
8. Lay the strips flat and braid them together. Take out your crochet hook and pull the loop of yarn so it doesn't unravel. Place the crocheted piece flat so you have the 3 strips lying next to each other. Then, braid the 3 of them together, keeping the strips loose as you work.^[13]
   
   
   • Lay your crochet hook at the top of the strips or tape them to hold the top end in place while you braid.
9. Thread the yarn onto a needle and whipstitch the end. Once you've braided the length of your bracelet, cut the working yarn and thread it through the eye of a needle. Then, sew over the edge of your bracelet's end a few times and tie it off.^[14]
   
   
   • If you don't want to tie the ends together in a basic square knot, add a button closure.

[Edit]Crocheted Bracelet with Beads

1. Slide 30 beads onto embroidery thread. You can use as many beads as you like, but try 30 to get started. Just slip them onto your choice of thread or yarn in the order that you want them to appear on your crocheted bracelet.^[15]
   
   
   • To make a heavily-beaded bracelet, use between 30 and 50 beads, for instance. If you're using large beads, you might only want 5 to 10 beads, though.
   • Don't cut the thread before or after you add the beads since they'll slip off if you do.
2. Pull of yarn from the beads and tie a slip knot. Slide the beads down towards the wrapped embroidery thread and pull until you have a yarn tail. Then, make a slip knot near the end of the tail.^[16]
   
   
   • Remember, to make a slip knot, twist the yarn into a loop. Put your thumb and forefinger through it and pinch the tail. At the same time, pull down on the working yarn.
3. Put the knot on a US C (2.5 mm) crochet hook and make 39 chain stitches. Place the slip knot behind the point of the crochet hook and pull gently to secure it to the hook. Then, wrap the yarn once around the hook and pull it through the loop to make 1 chain. Repeat this 38 times to make a total of 39 chain stitches.^[17]
   
   
   • Once you finish the chain stitches, you'll have a crocheted cord that forms the basis for the bracelet.
4. Slip 1 stitch and slip stitch into every chain across the cord. Once you reach the end of the cord, push your hook into the chain stitch you just made. Wrap the yarn around the hook once and pull it through the loop. To finish the slip stitch, pull the loop through the other one on your hook. Repeat this for every stitch across your bracelet.^[18]
   
   
5. Make 1 chain stitch and slip stitch into the next 4 stitches. Create 1 chain stitch at the end of your cord and make 4 slip stitches so your bracelet has a smooth space before you add beads to it. This starts the third row of your bracelet.^[19]
   
   
6. Slide a bead onto the bracelet and slip stitch to secure it. When you're ready to add a bead, push your hook into the next stitch. Instead of working it right away, slide the closest bead onto the bracelet. Then, make a slip stitch so the bead stays in place.^[20]
   
   
   • It might help to put your pointer finger on the bead while you're slip stitching so it doesn't wiggle around.
7. Add beads with the slip stitch for the next 29 stitches. Repeat this for the next 29 stitches to add all of the beads to your bracelet. Then, slip stitch the last 4 stitches of your bracelet without adding beads. This makes the smooth end that you'll tie to the other end of the bracelet.^[21]
   
   
8. Slip stitch into every stitch back across the bracelet. Finish crocheting the other side of the bracelet so the beads are centered. To do this, just make a slip stitch into each stitch along the beaded bracelet until you reach the other end.^[22]
   
   
9. Leave a tail and pull it through the last stitch. Cut the yarn to leave a long tail and use your hook to pull it through the end. Tug tightly on the yarn to secure the bracelet.^[23]
   
   
10. Cut tails for each end and braid them. To make decorative ends for the bracelet, cut 3 pieces of embroidery thread so they're long and pull them through the last stitch. Tie them to the bracelet and braid them together. Repeat this for the other end to finish your bracelet.^[24]
    
    
    
    • You can adjust the length of the braided ends before you use them to tie the bracelet to your wrist.

[Edit]Tips

• Change the size of your yarn or thread to make a thicker or thinner bracelet.
• If you'd like to fasten the bracelet with a button, crochet several strands and gather them together or use thick yarn to make a wide bracelet. Then, sew a button onto 1 end and wrap the other end into a loop that's wide enough for the button to pass through.^[25]

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Simple Friendship Bracelet

• Worsted weight yarn or crochet thread
• Size US G (4.00 mm) crochet hook
• Scissors

[Edit]Braided Crocheted Cuff

• Scissors
• Yarn or tapestry needle
• Sewing needle
• 1 small button
• Lightweight yarn
• Size US 7 (4.5 mm) crochet hook

[Edit]Crocheted Bracelet with Beads

• Embroidery thread or thin yarn
• Size US C (2.5 mm) crochet hook
• Beads
• Ruler
• Scissors

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://extension.usu.edu/sewing/ou-files/crocheting.pdf
2. ↑ https://extension.usu.edu/sewing/ou-files/crocheting.pdf
3. ↑ https://extension.usu.edu/sewing/ou-files/crocheting.pdf
4. ↑ https://youtu.be/R49LOKSHw6c?t=75
5. ↑ https://youtu.be/R49LOKSHw6c?t=87
6. ↑ https://youtu.be/-TvV1TG_Nts?t=158
7. ↑ http://media.craftyarncouncil.com/files/CYC_YS_s_and_g_rev2015_6.pdf
8. ↑ https://youtu.be/7mEMPK4yuF8?t=39
9. ↑ https://youtu.be/-TvV1TG_Nts?t=224
10. ↑ https://youtu.be/-TvV1TG_Nts?t=224
11. ↑ https://youtu.be/-TvV1TG_Nts?t=346
12. ↑ https://youtu.be/-TvV1TG_Nts?t=512
13. ↑ https://youtu.be/-TvV1TG_Nts?t=563
14. ↑ https://youtu.be/-TvV1TG_Nts?t=759
15. ↑ https://youtu.be/IW1b6Bp6KtY?t=119
16. ↑ https://youtu.be/eNzwyqpPzeY?t=131
17. ↑ https://youtu.be/eNzwyqpPzeY?t=145
18. ↑ https://youtu.be/eNzwyqpPzeY?t=208
19. ↑ https://1dogwoof.com/crochet-beaded-friendship-bracelet/
20. ↑ https://1dogwoof.com/crochet-beaded-friendship-bracelet/
21. ↑ https://youtu.be/eNzwyqpPzeY?t=309
22. ↑ https://1dogwoof.com/crochet-beaded-friendship-bracelet/
23. ↑ https://youtu.be/eNzwyqpPzeY?t=326
24. ↑ https://youtu.be/eNzwyqpPzeY?t=392
25. ↑ https://youtu.be/-TvV1TG_Nts?t=783

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