Paper Plate Wind TwirlerThis easy craft can be made by children of all ages. Smaller children may need help with the cutting but the artwork can be done by anyone!
Crocheted Barbie ClothesThese are patterns that I have collected and modified to fit Barbie. Lots of different yarns can be used to make these outfits different. These are quick and easy for an intermediate crocheter, but easy enough for a beginner to try also.
Paper Cup Gobblers(These will make a parents crazy, but kids love them)
Construction Paper Turkey DecorationsMake turkey decorations from construction paper or fun foam - not your typical trace your hand turkey design!
Bev's Shell MirrorI previously replied to a request of what to do with excess shells. I explained how I decorated wooden or chipboard (MDF in Australia) mirror or picture frames with shells.
I recently made one for a friend who celebrated her 40th birthday on the weekend.
Beaded Ring for Valentine's DayMake a ring for your Valentine. You need rocaille beads that are the size of a seed bead and some beading wire. Measure off about two feet of wire. Slip on four beads. Now run the one end of the wire through the last two beads on the other end of the wire.
Large Valentine's Day KissMelt chocolate in the microwave. Stir in nuts. Take a large brand new funnel and grease with butter. Cover end of funnel with a piece of tin foil.
Plastic Bag RugThis rug is pretty, is easy, really cool and costs next to nothing to make.
Blue Jean Book BagThis is a pretty easy sewing project. It is a cute book bag made from an old pair of blue jeans.
Laundry Detergent Lid PlanterHere is an inexpensive craft for Mother's Day easy enough for pre-schoolers to do.
Funky Crocheted ContainersWith basic crochet skills, you can turn that leftover wool into funky, unusual decorative containers, perfect for storing change, buttons, beads.
Easy Duct Tape PurseNeed a purse? You can make one out of cardboard and duct tape. They are easy and cool! You requested it and Stella made one with pictures and complete instructions.
Homemade Garden TrellisI'm attempting once again to grow birdhouse gourds. They work well in hills with a lot of area to spread, but I don't have a large area to spare. They also will climb, so I'm trying it this way this year.
Easy Earrings from Vintage ButtonsDo you have any beautiful, old buttons in your collection that either don't number enough for the front of a shirt, or just don't seem to match any fabric you have? You can turn them into unique earrings quite easily.
Make Magnets from ClippingsThis is a fast, easy way to use up old National Geographic magazines, newspapers, or stamps -- with some acrylic medium and a magnet sheet, you can create customized magnets!
Handprint Wall HangingThey won't be little for long! Children grow unbelievably fast, and it's the simple things that develop into treasured memories over the years. Capture your children's little hands with a subtle and natural wall hanging. This art piece looks great hanging amid framed photos on a wall.
Modge Podge Designer ShelvesAn old shelving unit can be renewed to look like a designer accent piece with just a little ingenuity. Whether you want to give your tired shelves color and life for a child's room or make them look sophisticated for a library, this project will allow you to create a perfect one-of-a-kind look for your specific décor.
Make Your Own Spaceship or SubmarineGot a garage full of broken electronics? Turn them into your child's dream toy! Broken remotes, radios, telephones, smoke detectors, and the like may seem like so much junk to you, but to a child they're the makings of a spaceship, a time machine, or a submarine!
Patchwork Photo AlbumWhen you open a photo album, all the warmth of a family's history is poured out on each page. All those precious memories tucked inside a generic photo album from a super store seems a little ironic. Sure, they say it's what's inside that counts, but a nice presentation is nothing to scoff at.
Crazy Caterpillar CraftDo you like bugs and creepy crawlies? Even if the answer is no, you are sure to love this particular caterpillar! Caterpillars are very cute, especially if they are made with tube socks or tights!
Soda Pop Tab EmbossingUsing soda pop tabs for crafting is fun & easy.
You will need: Clear embossing ink,
Soda pop tabs,
Colored embossing powder,
Heat embossing tool,
A pair of tweezers,
Turn Trash Into Fully Functional Furniture...You know all the furniture that you see people have left out at the curb for trash pickup, that on the surface looks ready for demolition? With a little fix up, these pieces can be saved and used in your own home.
Sneaky SnakeIf you have an adult male in your home, you are bound to have a huge array of ties. And if it is anything like at my house, I'll bet that many of those ties go unworn year after year!
Cardboard Do-Dad DrawersNo place to store all that costume jewelry used in dress ups? Need a space to put that sticker collection? How about a someplace to store crayons and other art supplies? This cute set of drawers will fit the bill no matter what you want to store!
Jigsaw FrameJigsaw puzzles are a lot of fun, but in a house with children, they are not likely to last very long. Before you know it, several pieces are lost. Don't throw away that old puzzle - use it to create a wonderful frame!
Foam 'Foto' FrameThis is a fun, easy project for any family member. A great project for kids that allows them to express themselves and customize their favorite photos!
Tin Punch LanternHere's a simple way to turn old coffee or vegetable cans into lovely garden lanterns.
Clay Pot Wind ChimeWe all love wind chimes. Me? I love the sound of wooden wind chimes. And this project allows you to have fun with your kids and create a chime made out of simple items. The end result is something to be proud of and looks great hanging out on the patio.
Recycling Old CandlesDo you have a favorite candle that the wick has burned completely down? Recycle it the easy way. It will involve a minimal expense, but it is well worth the investment.
Sock MonkeyI always hated retrieving the toy that had been dropped from the stroller or the walker when my daughter was little. A sock monkey solved the problem. It was soft and would drape over the edge of the stroller or walker.
Vacuum Cleaner CoverAre you someone that just doesn't have a good place to store your vacuum cleaner? You end up standing it in the corner, but hate seeing it there. I have the solution for you. Make a cute cover and no one will realize it's your vacuum cleaner.
T-Shirt PillowThese are a great way for you to preserve your old t-shirts rather than keeping them in a drawer. Often our t-shirts have messages that bring us back to events in our lives with fond memories.
Elephant Ring Toss GameDo you love the circus? How about a fun day at the fair? Bring both to your own backyard with this adorable elephant ring toss game!
Kitchen Utensil HolderI bet you never thought about using a flower pot to hold your kitchen utensils! This project is so easy. It won't take but a few minutes. This is the perfect utensil holder.
Heat Therapy PillowWouldn't it feel nice and soothing to have a warm pillow on the back of your neck after a hard day at work? Or how about some heat therapy on that knee you messed up a few years ago that flares up every now and then?
Mini-book on Financial WisdomEver wonder what to do with those sample credit cards sent your way to entice your business?
Pillowcase SkirtMake a skirt out of a pillowcase, either with a zipper or elastic.
Jeans Skirt with RuffleThe distressed look is very popular with young folks. This skirt definitely has that distressed look and is a fun and easy project for your budding clothes designers.
Nylon Stuffed PillowWait! Don't throw away the stockings with the runs in them. Hold on to those socks that allow your big toe to peek out and shout "hello". These seemingly useless articles can add a touch of elegant décor to your home. Please don't hang them on the lampshade. Here's a better idea.
Paper LanternThese are great for children's parties. You can even have you kids help you. They can be hung or you can put a light inside them to see how they brighten up a room!
Beaded DreamcatcherHere is an easy to make, beaded dreamcacher.
Sock Can Pin CushionFor those of you who do a lot of sewing, you will like this second idea: 2nd way to use those socks is to make a pin cushion!
Plastic Bag DispenserEver figure out where to put those tons of plastic bags you get when you go to the groceries? Here's a cheap way to do it while teaching your young ones the value of recycling!
Beaded BookmarkThese are simple and fun gifts to give for all kinds of occasions. They are easy enough for a child to complete, or you can make them more embellished for your personal use.
Homemade Personalized MugsTired of the same generic gift? Here's an inexpensive yet personalized and classy gift you can give this Christmas! But first, you need to visit your local thrift shop for mugs at 25-50 cents each!
Painted Wine BottleThe movie "Sideways" got you wine tasting, and even wine drinking... now what do you do with all those wine bottles that are starting to accumulate? Keep them - they are good for something. Take a look at what you can do with them with a little spray and brushstrokes.
Butterfly Napkin RingsUse this beaded napkin ring at your next meal to add a special touch to your place settings.
Dried Floral FrameLike old memories, dried flowers have a comforting appeal. What better way to incorporate dried flowers into your décor than using them to decorate a photo frame? This simple project takes only a few minutes, and it makes great gifts for any occasion.
Beaded Rainbow Window SparklerA cheery beaded rainbow that you can hang in your window.
Plant SparklersThis is an easy project where you get to be very creative!
Fish Collage (Metal and Wood)This art project is for the true recycler. By combining old pieces of metal, a scrap of wood, and leftover paint, you can create a primative work of art that depicts the synergy of man and nature. My father creates these unique pieces in his spare time, and they are indeed works of art.
Tatami Wall HangingNatural materials give your rooms a comfortable, casual feel that's in keeping with today's lifestyle. Bamboo and reeds have a long tradition in Oriental and Polynesian design. They're used to make floor mats, wall hangings, and screens.
Hair Accessory DollAre you tired of helping your daughter search for her hair clips and scrunchies? I have the perfect solution. Make her a doll to hang on the wall or door and she can put them there.
Credit Card "Piggy Bank"The other way we can use those sample credit cards is to make a "piggy bank" to teach your kid that an alternative to credit cards is to save up before spending.
Library Lamp Made of BooksNeed a light? Have a bunch of old books laying around that you're not interested in reading? Make a library lamp! This unusual and functional work of art is sure to get great reviews from friends.
Sparkly Felt Beaded PinA colorful beaded pin with felt backing.
No-Sew Bandana Skirt and TopWhat do you get when you hand four bandanas to a crafty kid with her own sense of style? The result just might be this very cute two piece bandana halter top and skirt. The little set is not quite no-sew, but the few stitches that you take are so simple that it's hardly sewing at all.
Preserve Memories With A T-Shirt BlanketAs I was getting ready for college, I realized two things: one, I had too many t-shirts. Two, I loathed parting with said T-shirts. Here's how to keep those well-worn memories fun and useful.
Rock Garden Rooting GlassRooting in water is one of the best ways to start a plant. Just take a few snips from a plant that you love, being sure to include a growth node or two. Strip off any leaves that will be beneath the level of water in the glass, then place the stem end into water in a clear glass container.
Juice Pouch Tri-Fold WalletHere are instructions for making a tri-fold wallet out of Kool-Aid Jammer or Capri Sun juice pouches.
Citronella CandlesRecipe for making citronella candles. These look great on BBQ tables and outdoor patios
Crocheted Leaf DishclothHere are instructions for making this cute crocheted dishcloth. It would be perfect for fall.
Crayon Bath SoapsHave some containers ready for each color. You will also need something for a mold, an ice cube tray or something similar will work. Mix the soap flakes with the hot water, stirring constantly. If your soap flakes are not breaking down, place the pan on a little heat to melt it down further.
Crocheted Baby SweaterInstructions for making a crocheted baby sweater.
Capri Sun or KoolAid Jammer Pouch...Making crafts out of Capri Sun or KoolAid Jammer pouches can be a lot of fun. You can make cool and durable gifts. Below are instructions for making a checkbook cover that I made.
Paper Bag StationeryGrocery brown bags or other brown bags accumulating? Don't thrown them away. You can use them to make nice and dainty stationary to write your grocery list or your recipe for next week's party or your shopping list or your to do list.
Clothespin Puppets on a StickRound-headed peg clothespins have been a quick crafts staple for decades - so much so that many crafting supply companies package them as 'crafting pins' or some similar name.
Antique Keepsake BoxStart by painting the inside and outside of your box with a complimenting color to your fabric. Once your box is dry, using your lid as a template cut a square of fabric that is just larger then the top of your box.
Sock Can HolderIf you are like my family, then you would have a lot of "orphan" socks (one of the pieces got lost or something). Or you may have a collection of worn-out socks (specially on the sole and toe areas). You are saving them for something you could use it for in the future.
Juice Pouch Lunch BagThis lunch bag is easy to make and durable. It makes great use of Kool-Jammer or Capri Sun pouches.
Denim Pocket PurseEver wonder what you can do with blue jeans that have seen better days? Favorite blue jeans may not be suitable for reuse because of all the wear and tear.
Crocheted Doll SweaterInstructions for making a 18 inch Crocheted Doll Sweater.
Bath BombsCombine the dry ingredients in bowl and stir until well mixed. Next... Drizzle in the almond oil and stir until mixture is moistened. Add more oil and fragrance and stir until well mixed.
Personalized Badge HolderThis personalized badge holder was created for nurses that work in a hospital. Not only does it have their name and professional title on it, but it's in neutral black and white to match practically any outfit.
Post Card FramingEver feel like the tourist who has everything? Do you own more coffee mugs than a coffee shop? Have enough t-shirts to clothe an army? Here's a very classy way to display the most inexpensive of all vacation trinkets - the postcard.
Crocheted Toddler Girl's HatPattern for making a crocheted hat for a toddler.
Bath JellyEmpty the packet of gelatin into a bowl and set aside. Boil 3/4 cup of water using a saucepan or Kettle. Carefully pour the hot water into mixing bowl and mix it with the gelatin powder. Let the gelatin dissolve completely.
Egg Carton Bulletin BoardRecycle egg cartons and make them into an interesting bulletin board.
Sponge Mobile or CenterpieceIt's amazing what a little creativity and imagination can do with some very simple items. The sponge mobile is a fun project for a rainy afternoon with kids. Depending on how it's hung or stood, the dancing butterflies, hearts, and stars can play above a cradle or stand in the middle of a kid's birthday party table.
Bee SoapMelt beeswax and keep warm/liquid. Melt soap base and then mix in beeswax. Add honey and keep stirring until melted. Pour into a soap mold.
Flower/Snowflake Bed CoverI used this motif because it can be used year-round. In the spring, summer and fall I call them flowers and in the winter I call them snowflakes!
Melt and Pour SoapmakingYou can melt the base in a double boiler or the microwave. If you choose the microwave, make sure you cover the bowl you are melting the melt and pour (MP) with Saran Wrap to keep the excess moisture from evaporating out.
Cinnamon CandlesAdd some cinnamon next time your making candles. It gives off a lovely fragrance as well as a rustic look to your candles.
Earth Clay SoapMelt down your soap and water in a double boiler method. Once your soap is melted stir through the remaining ingredients and add any scent or color, then pour the mix into your soap molds.
Crocheted Pocket ScarfKeep your neck and hands warm with this versatile pocket scarf.
Coffee and Cream SoapMelt your soap down using a double boiler method. Once melted, stir in your instant coffee or coffee grounds, powdered milk and coffee fragrance oil.
Unique Milk Jug BackpackIf you always seem to be "on the go" then you surely understand that kids don't go anywhere without their "stuff." That is why this craft idea is so handy. With this easy-to-make backpack, your child can take their treasures with them wherever they go!
Fleece Doll Bunny SlippersThis simple no-sew project promises to keep a baby doll's feet toasty during winter months. You can do this project in conjunction with the baby doll blanket for a original gift set that little girls will treasure.
Fleece Doll BlanketThis simple no-sew blanket project is great for babies or baby dolls. Do this project in conjunction with the Doll Bunny Slippers as an original gift for little girls who love their dolls.
Crocheted Birdhouse PlacematsI design and make so many placemats that I have a template on my computer! When I decide on a theme for a new placemat, I play around with it on the computer. When I'm happy with what I've created, I print it out and crochet from the chart.
Filet Crochet HeartFilet crochet is usually done with crochet thread. I chose to use yarn because I wanted more coverage than thread would allow. (I bought a green pillow that didn't match my décor as well as I thought it would.)
Grape ArrangementWith the lasting popularity of old-world décor, this grape arrangement will add class and color to an end table, dining table, pedestal, or architectural niche. You can use the same concept with different varieties of fruit, or add seasonal flowers or ribbons to change the look of the arrangement.
Painted Candle HolderThe only thing more romantic than candlelight is candlelight softened by the faint glimmer of enameled glass. This beautiful votive candleholder started life as a yard sale cut glass goblet
Crocheted Tulip PlacematsThis tulip placemat is a cheerful way to welcome spring. I designed this pattern when I was living in Seattle, and wanted something to brighten my kitchen - a definite necessity while waiting for the beautiful, sunny days of summer.
Tall Floral ArrangementFloral arrangements are best classified by shape. This project describes how to build a tall triangular floral arrangement. When complete, it will look best on a podium, shelf, or end table as the tallest of three objects.
Designer PlatesI have a great homemade holiday gift idea that is great for family, friends, anyone! And it's so inexpensive, you could give one to everyone on your list!
Christmas BookIn essence, a handmade book covered in beautiful seasonal paper. This book provides a lovely place to record Christmas memories, lists, and recipes. It can be large or small, depending on your needs.
Fish Coat RackWe needed some coat racks for our new office which is by the water. I had some little wooden hanging fish I'd bought at a garage sale, worn blue and gray, that I really loved. I saw some coat racks at JoAnn's that I thought would go well with them.
Juice Pouch Gift BagThis gift bag is easy to make and durable. It makes good use of Kool-Jammer or Capri Sun pouches. It's very similar to the lunch bag I published in the past, but instead of a Velcro enclosure, it uses eyelets and ribbon to make a gift bag handle.
Festive EnvelopesWhy let the card have all the glory? Using stamps and embossing powder to create elegant winter images, this craft makes the envelope enchanting too!
Beaded Snowflake MittensEasy holiday craft project. Make mittens from scraps of fleece and bead simple snowflakes on them. You can see the mittens to the right of the scarf.
Whiskbroom AngelWho needs a kitchen witch when you've got this adorable little whiskbroom angel around? No need to scare away the evil spirits - just let the Hacienda Angel whisk all your troubles away.
