Tiny Twig Trees

 

We’re on the holiday home stretch right now and if you’re looking for ideas for a super cute gift or party favor, you’ve come to the right place. These tiny twig trees are fun, easy, and sure to please.

You’ll need:

• Twigs
• Hot glue gun
• Tiny containers to compliment your tiny trees
• Moss
• Dry floral foam

Here’s how to do it:

1. Create the tree by laying out five pieces of twigs on a flat surface; one is the trunk, second is the base of the tree, the third and fourth are the sides and the fifth is the center.
2. After you have the shape desired, place a dab of hot glue where the twigs touch each other.
3. When the glue is dry insert dry floral foam into the container then insert the tree into the foam (trunk first).
4. Glue some moss to cover the foam and you are done!

Happy Holidays and Happy Crafting!

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Repurposed Jars for the Holidays

 

As I was cleaning my fridge, I discovered entirely too many spoiled jars of olives, jellies and some other suspicious matter in jars. After cleaning them up and, since I like to recycle in creative ways, I made these holiday jars and filled them with pine scented soy candles. Okay, if you don’t feel like messing with scalding hot wax, you can use the jars for decorative storage or give them as gifts filled with candies or other unique gift items. However, for those brave crafters out there, here’s a link with easy to follow instructions to make candles.

Note to crafters, with the exception of the jars, I purchased all of the project supplies at A.C. Moore (my second home).

Here’s what you’ll need to make the decorative jars.

• The desire to clean out your fridge
• Empty jars
• Craft paint (or spray paint)
• Brushes (if painting the lids by hand)
• Miniature trees
• Adhesive (I used E-6000 Craft Adhesive)

Here’s how ya do it:

1. Paint the lids with craft or spray paint.
2. After the paint is dry, glue the miniature trees to the lid.
3. Your done!

How easy is that!  Probably the most difficult part if this project, for me, was removing the labels from the jars. I found that a good soak in hot soapy water and a little coaxing with a magic eraser, the labels surrendered.

Have fun and happy crafting!

Repurposed Mint Tins for Baubles & Treasures

Here’s a super easy and super fun project for the whole family! Transform empty mint tins into stylish little keepsake boxes perfect for storing your favorite beach treasures and special trinkets. Or you can tuck tiny little treasure maps inside for a really fun children’s party game. Their uses are endless!

Here’s how you do it. Paint the lids with Liquitex Glossies high-gloss acrylic enamel.  You can find the paint at your local craft store or on-line at Dick Blick. After the paint dries, glue your favorite beach finds or other special baubles to the lids using non-toxic and waterproof, Gorilla Glue, also found at craft stores.

Happy crafting!

Unique Gift Idea for Mother’s Day

Sunday, May 13th is Mother’s Day and I’d like to share a quick and fun gift idea for all those special mommies out there…you know who you are!

Why not buy some unique perennials, wrap them in craft paper and satin ribbon…add a craft paper flower and voila’! You’ve created a special gift that can be enjoyed year after year. The perennials I’m giving to the special moms in my life are Hens & Chicks, Creeping Wirevine and Scotch Moss. I really love the textures and color variations of these beauties.

Here’s the paper flower recipe. Really, it couldn’t be easier.

1. Draw a spiral on a 4″ X 4″ piece of craft paper (or paper of choice). Don’t worry if the spiral is a little wonky like mine…just don’t stare at it too long.
2. Now cut along the wonky line and cut the spiral from the square.
3. Then start rolling the spiral from the outside until the whole spiral is shaped into a flower.
4. Use a bit of hot glue on the last piece of the spiral and place it on a twig or piece of wire.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Burlap Beauties

Recently I was asked to create a collection of flower arrangements for an event hosted by an amazing non-profit called Healing Through The Arts. The organization provides art, information and resources to encourage and support healing to individuals, caregivers and their families. Please do check out their website here!

I wanted my creations to be extra special so I picked up a bunch of potted hydrangea and cineraria but of course they are sold in those nasty plastic pots and foil wrappers.

With a little burlap, twine and moss these girls are all dressed up and ready for the ball!

Happy Friday and happy crafting!