Tag: crafting
How to make an egg tree
The design for this whimsical egg tree derives from eastern European folk art. The basket at the bottom is traditionally used for bread. The tree makes a spectacular centrepiece at Easter when filled with dyed or painted eggs. At Christmas, turn it into a decorative Christmas tree by putting night lights in the egg holders and filling the basket with presents or sweets (candies). Tinned copper wire has been used here as it is ideal for kitchenware. It is as malleable as copper wire and has the added advantage that it does not tarnish. The egg tree can, of course, be made from cheaper and more readily available wire. For a different finish it could be wrapped in natural-coloured string.
History of creative wirework
Wirework is an ancient art form, probably first practised by the Egyptians around 3000BC. Early examples have been discovered in the burial chambers of important people throughout the ancient world. In 2600BC, wire was used in gold and silver ribbons for entwining in the hair of courtly ladies in the Sumerian city of Ur. The art of wirework spread in various forms from Babylon to Baghdad, Damascus and Constantinople before finally reaching Europe.
Memory box
It is very nice thing to decorate the home with personal items. The objects that mean something to you and your family. Even better is you made it yourself. Creating a personalised memory box is one of the projects that are so fun to make and such a pleasure to look at or give as a present. The memory box can be filled with a nostalgic collection of family mementos: old black-and-white framed photos, vintage toy cars, someone’s favourite dolls, souvenirs from vacations and family trips, a letter for the child to read when they are older, rolled up like a scroll, and other miniature objects.
Catnip mouse
Filled with catnip, this little mouse make a delightful gift that a cat literally cannot resist. This is a great project for using up offcuts and leftover pieces of material. Cotton fabrics work well, but why not also try tweed or leather? Catnip or Nepeta cataria is cultivated as an ornamental plant for use in gardens. It is also grown for its attractant qualities to house cats and butterflies. With domestic cats, catnip is used as a recreational substance for pet cats’ enjoyment, and catnip and catnip-laced products designed for use with domesticated cats are available to consumers. Common behaviors cats display when they sense the bruised leaves or stems of catnip are rubbing on the plant, rolling on the ground, pawing at it, licking it, and chewing it.
Eggshell mosaic picture frame
This pretty mosaic frame looks so stunning that not many people will guess it’s made from ordinary hens’ eggs. You can use speckled eggs or even pale blue duck eggs if you can find them, but it’s quite easy to colour plain eggshell with watercolour paint. This project is the perfect way to transform that charity shop find. Paint the frame white before you start to give it a neutral finish.
How to start crafting??
If you are looking for a way to enjoy a little relaxation or perhaps to spend a couple of hours with your friends, think about making arts and crafts a part of your life. It is true that arts and crafts is a broad, non-specific thing. But that is the beauty of it. Basically, taking time to explore new arts and crafts means you get to be creative and have fun in any way you want to. One of the best ways to learn new arts and crafts is to sign up for a class.
Chopstick Trivet
One of the most common junk drawer staples is Chinese takeaway food chopsticks. We all save them, but ultimately will probably never, ever use them. Recycling chopsticks into a handy trivet is a great example of form and function: The recycled result looks like a wooden starburst, and your countertops will breathe a sigh of relief the next time you place a hot pot of stew on top. Your precious marble or wood countertop would thank you if it could.
