Crafts Archives : The Artistic Divas World

5 Fun and Easy Clay Projects for Beginners

Leave a Comment / Art, Art mediums, creativity, Family fun, pottery as art form / admin

Welcome! Here on this blog, we talk a lot about art, crafts, trash to treasure, art Masters, art mediums and more. If you would like to check out any or all of our previous blog posts, you can do that here. In the mean time, let’s talk about clay.

Working with clay is one of those magical things that makes you feel like a kid again, no matter how old you are. There’s something so satisfying about taking a lump of clay and turning it into something beautiful—or at least something that makes you smile. If you’re just getting started, the key is to keep it simple and let yourself play. Here are five easy clay projects that are perfect for beginners and can be done right at your kitchen table.

Start with a little pinch pot. This is one of the oldest forms of pottery and honestly one of the most forgiving. You just roll a ball of clay, stick your thumb in the center, and gently pinch the sides to make a little bowl. They’re great for holding jewelry, loose change, or even a tiny succulent. Want to jazz it up? Press in textures using lace, leaves, or stamps, or paint it once it’s dry for a personal touch.

Try making a set of simple beads. Roll small pieces of clay into spheres, ovals, or funky shapes, and use a toothpick or skewer to poke a hole through the center. Once they dry or bake (depending on your clay), you can string them into a necklace, bracelet, or even a keychain. It’s a great way to get used to handling clay and working on small details without feeling overwhelmed.

Create a mini animal sculpture—nothing fancy, just something cute like a chubby cat, sleepy dog, or even a tiny turtle. Focus on the basic shapes first, like round bodies and simple ears. A little toothpick or clay tool can help you add in eyes or texture. These make fun desk buddies or little gifts, and they’re a great way to practice shaping and proportion.

Make a clay dish using a cookie cutter. Roll out the clay like you’re making sugar cookies, press a large cookie cutter into it—think hearts, stars, or moons—and gently lift the shape. Place it over a bowl or upside-down cup to dry so it forms a slight curve. These make sweet catch-all dishes or decor pieces and are super satisfying to decorate with paints or metallic accents.

Try your hand at a decorative plaque. Roll out a slab of clay and cut it into a rectangle or oval, then carve in a word, name, or simple design using a pencil or stylus. You can even press a doily or fabric into the surface for some texture. Once it’s dry, add color with acrylics or watercolor, seal it, and hang it up. These make great handmade signs or gifts and feel more advanced than they really are.

The best part of working with clay is that there’s really no wrong way to do it. You’re learning as you go, and every piece is its own little adventure. Start small, enjoy the mess, and don’t worry about perfection—your creativity is what makes each piece special. If you try any of these, I’d love to hear how it goes or see pictures of your creations. Happy making!

If you are a visual learner, you might watch our companion YouTube video about this exact same topic.

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Creating Art on a Budget

Leave a Comment / Art, Art Journaling, artistic style, Cardboard Art, Collage, Crafts, creativity, DIY Art Supplies / admin

Art doesn’t have to be a pricey endeavor. Some of the most creative and unique pieces come from the simplest materials and the humblest beginnings. With a little ingenuity and resourcefulness, creating art without emptying your wallet can be done. Here’s how each of these budget-friendly tips can help you as an artist:

1. Creating Art with What You Have
Before heading to the craft store, take inventory of what you already own. Those leftover scraps of fabric, old magazines, cardboard boxes, or packaging materials tucked away in a closet can be the perfect foundation for your next project. This approach not only saves money but also pushes you to think creatively about using unconventional materials. An old shoebox can become a shadow box, and those fabric scraps might turn into beautiful journal covers.

When you limit yourself to what’s on hand, you’re also doing your part for sustainability by reducing waste.

2. Thrift Store Goldmines
Second-hand stores are like hidden treasure chests for crafters. You can find old books with gorgeous illustrations, picture frames for upcycling, jewelry that can be disassembled into embellishments, and fabric remnants perfect for sewing or mixed media projects. The key is to visit these stores with an open mind. That broken necklace might seem like junk at first glance, but its beads and charms can bring your next junk journal or collage to life. You will never run out of ways for creating art at a thrift store.

Thrift shopping is also a fun way to spark new creative ideas. You never know what you’ll stumble upon!

3. Creating Art with DIY Supplies
Buying pre-made art supplies can be expensive, but many of them are easy to make yourself. For example:

Stamps: Carve designs into erasers or potatoes for custom shapes.
Stencils: Cut patterns into cardboard or plastic sheets.
Coffee-Dyed Paper: Soak regular paper in coffee for a vintage effect, perfect for junk journaling or calligraphy.
Creating your own supplies not only saves money but also gives your projects a unique, personalized touch. Plus, the process of making these supplies can be just as rewarding as the art itself.

4. Swap and Share
If you’re part of a crafting community or have artistic friends, consider organizing a swap. You can trade supplies you no longer need for materials that inspire new projects. For example, you might have extra watercolor paints while someone else has a stash of fabric they’re willing to trade. This helps you and the crafting community in creating art without breaking the bank.

Swapping also builds relationships within your artistic circle and exposes you to materials or tools you might not have thought to use.

5. Free Digital Resources
The internet is a goldmine for crafters on a budget. Websites like Pinterest, Canva, and Unsplash offer free templates, graphics, and high-quality images you can use in your projects. You’ll also find countless tutorials on platforms like YouTube that teach you how to use these resources effectively.

For printable art, sites like The Graphics Fairy or Creative Commons offer vintage and royalty-free images you can download and incorporate into your work. This expands your creative toolbox without spending a cent.

6. Think Outside the Box
Everyday items often overlooked can bring extraordinary character to your art. Bottle caps, keys, buttons, twigs, and even bubble wrap can be used for texture and decoration. Nature is another rich source of materials—leaves, stones, and pressed flowers can add organic beauty to your creations.

This mindset not only stretches your budget but also helps you see the potential for creating art in unexpected places, keeping your creativity fresh and innovative.

How This Helps the Artist

We have visited this before so you can check that out here. By adopting these budget-friendly practices, you not only reduce your expenses but also foster a sense of resourcefulness and innovation. Working within constraints can spark ideas you might never have explored otherwise. Plus, the satisfaction of creating art from what might have been discarded is deeply rewarding.

Creating art isn’t about how much you spend; it’s about how you see the world and express it. So grab what you have, explore new resources, and start crafting your masterpiece today!

You can check out this link here to find great art supplies for a little expense. This is an affiliate link and I get a few pennies if you use it.

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DIY Art Supplies: Getting by on very little as a beginning artist

Leave a Comment / Art, Crafts, creativity, DIY Art Supplies, Family fun, painting / admin

I’ve been on this kick lately about making my own art supplies. I mean, we all know how pricey those art store trips can get, right? Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about using tools and materials you’ve crafted yourself. It’s like adding an extra layer of creativity to the whole process. Let me share a few of my favorite DIY art supplies with you because I don’t think we have explored this possibility before. You can check out our other posts here.

making-paint

First off, let’s talk about homemade paint. If you are making it for your kids, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up and so much fun. All you need is some flour, salt, water, and food coloring. Mix equal parts of flour and salt, then gradually add water until you get a nice, smooth paste. Divide this mixture into small containers and add a few drops of food coloring to each. Voila, you’ve got yourself some homemade paint! It’s non-toxic, easy to clean up, and perfect for those spontaneous painting sessions.

But if you are making it for yourself and artwork, you may want to read this article that tells you everything you need to know about making your own paint for art: https://www.artistsnetwork.com/art-techniques/make-your-own-paint/

paint brushes Next up, brushes. If you’re like me, you probably have a drawer full of old makeup brushes you never use. Guess what? They make fantastic paintbrushes! Just give them a good wash, and they’re ready to go. You can also experiment with different textures by using household items like sponges, feathers, or even leaves as brushes. The unique marks they create can add an interesting twist to your artwork. I personally enjoy using cheap brushes from the Dollar Store that you buy in the children’s toys aisle. There is also the home improvement aisle for cheap painters brushes which are great for laying water down for watercolor. To learn more about it, here is an article on making brushes, https://www.instructables.com/Making-your-own-paintbrushes/, or here is a video about how to make 18 different types of brushes, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwnE2InucYQ

Now, let’s talk about journals. If you’re into junk journaling, making your own journal is a must-try. You can use old book covers or even cardboard for the covers. For the pages, gather all those scraps of paper you’ve been saving – old letters, receipts, magazine pages, anything goes. Bind them together with a simple stitch or use a hole punch and some string. Not only does this give you a completely unique journal, but it’s also a great way to recycle materials. We have explored this topic in the last few posts and you can read them here.

Speaking of recycling, let’s not forget about making your own collage materials. Instead of buying expensive papers, start collecting interesting textures and colors from everyday items. Wrapping paper, fabric scraps, even food packaging can be transformed into beautiful collage elements. It’s all about seeing potential in the mundane.

paper-mache-clay-recipe- Oh, and if you love working with clay, you can make your own air-dry clay at home. Mix 2 cups of baking soda, 1 cup of cornstarch, and 1 1/2 cups of water in a pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens to a dough-like consistency. Let it cool, then knead it until smooth. This clay is perfect for making small sculptures or ornaments and hardens nicely without the need for a kiln. There are other recipes available on the internet and my favorite is the paper mache clay you can find the recipe for here.

One of my absolute favorites, though, is homemade ink. You can make ink from all sorts of natural materials like berries, walnut shells, or even coffee. For berry ink, mash up some fresh or frozen berries, strain out the juice, and add a bit of vinegar and salt to help preserve it. You’ll be amazed at the rich, vibrant colors you can get from something so simple. Here is another take on making your own inks and these are absolutely gorgeous! https://www.tanyaval.com/alaskablog/inkmakingbasics

Homemade inks

I hope you give some of these DIY art supplies a try. Not only will you save some money, but you’ll also add a personal touch to your art that can’t be bought in a store. Plus, it’s just plain fun to experiment and see what you can come up with. Happy creating!

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Junk Journal: the Cover and the Book Itself

Leave a Comment / Art, Collage, Crafts, creativity, Junk Journaling / admin

In the past few posts, we’ve explored what junk journals are and where to get the ephemera you use to make it pretty. Now, I’ve got some fantastic tips for you on crafting a junk journal, and I’m so excited to share them with you. Grab a cup of tea, get comfy, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of junk journaling together.

So, first things first, let’s talk about what a junk journal actually is. It’s basically a handmade book created from a mix of found and recycled materials. Think old book pages, scraps of fabric, vintage postcards, buttons, and even bits of lace. The beauty of junk journaling is that there are no rules – it’s all about letting your creativity flow and making something uniquely yours.

ephemera Starting off, you’ll need to gather your materials. This is the fun part because you can use just about anything! Raid your stash for things like old magazines, wrapping paper, tags, envelopes, and even those random bits of ribbon you’ve been saving for a rainy day. Don’t forget to check thrift stores and flea markets for vintage items that add a special touch to your journal.

Now, onto the base of your journal. There are a few different ways you can go about this. One popular method is to use an old book. You can find cheap ones at second-hand stores or use one you no longer need. Carefully remove some of the pages to make room for your additions. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can create your own book from scratch. All you need is some sturdy cardboard for the cover and a few sheets of paper for the pages. Fold the sheets in half, stack them, and sew or staple them together along the fold. Voila, you have a blank canvas ready to be transformed!

Next, it’s time to start adding your collected treasures. This is where your personality really shines through. Think of each page as a mini canvas. You can glue, sew, or tape your items in place. Try layering different textures and materials for a rich, tactile feel. For example, you might glue down a piece of lace, then add a tag on top, and finish it off with a button or a charm. Don’t worry about things looking too perfect – the charm of a junk journal is its eclectic, handmade look.

Another fun element to add is pockets and envelopes. These are perfect for tucking away little notes, photos, or even more scraps of paper that you might want to use later. You can make a simple pocket by folding a piece of paper and gluing it along three sides, leaving the top open. Envelopes can be glued directly onto a page or left loose so they can be moved around.

If you’re into stamping or stenciling, this is a great way to add some unique designs to your pages. You can also try your hand at doodling or writing little quotes and notes. It’s all about making the journal something that brings you joy every time you open it.

One more thing – don’t forget to personalize the cover! Whether you’re using an old book or a homemade one, decorating the cover sets the tone for your entire journal. You can cover it with fabric, paint it, or even collage a bunch of your favorite images and words. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making a cover for your junk journal. It’s like creating the face of your journal, and it’s super fun because you can get really creative with it.

First, you’ll need to decide what you want to use for the base of your cover. You can go with sturdy cardboard, an old book cover, or even a cereal box. The key is to use something that will hold up well as you handle your journal over time. Don’t forget to check out the video posted about exactly how you do this part at https://youtube.com/shorts/baa-LyR6hDc?feature=share

Once you’ve got your base, here are the steps to make a cover for your junk journal:

Cutting the Cardboard: If you’re starting from scratch, cut two pieces of cardboard to the size you want your journal to be. These will be your front and back covers. If you’re using an old book, you can skip this step because the covers are already there.
Covering the Cardboard: This is where you can get creative. You can cover the cardboard with fabric, decorative paper, or even scrapbook paper. If you’re using fabric, cut a piece that’s about an inch larger than your cardboard on all sides. Lay the fabric flat, place the cardboard in the center, and then fold the edges of the fabric over the cardboard. Glue or tape the edges down on the inside of the cover. If you’re using paper, you can use the same method, but be sure to smooth out any wrinkles as you glue it down.
Adding the Spine: If you’re making a book from scratch, you’ll need to create a spine. Cut a piece of cardboard the same height as your covers, and about an inch to an inch and a half wide, depending on how thick you want your journal to be. Cover it with the same material you used for the covers, leaving a little extra on each side to attach it to the covers. Lay the spine flat, and place the covers on either side, leaving a small gap (about 1/8 inch) so the book can open and close easily. Glue or tape the spine to the covers, making sure it’s secure.
Decorating the Cover: This is the fun part! You can decorate the cover however you like. You might want to add some lace, buttons, or charms. You could also collage images and words that inspire you. If you’re using paint, go ahead and get artistic with it. Remember, there are no rules – it’s all about making something that you love.
Finishing Touches: To give your cover a polished look, you might want to add some corner protectors or reinforce the edges with washi tape or fabric tape. This not only looks nice but also helps protect your journal from wear and tear.
Attaching the Pages: Once your cover is ready, you’ll need to attach your pages. If you’ve made signatures (groups of folded pages), you can sew them into the spine. Use a strong thread and a needle, and make sure to poke evenly spaced holes through the spine and the pages first. Another option is to use a binding method like a three-hole pamphlet stitch, which is simple and sturdy. If sewing isn’t your thing, you can use a strong glue to attach your pages, just be sure it’s dry before you start flipping through your journal.

And there you have it! A beautiful, personalized cover for your junk journal.

The best part about crafting a junk journal is that it’s a never-ending project. You can always add new pages, pockets, and decorations whenever you feel like it. It’s a beautiful, ever-evolving piece of art that tells your story in a way that’s totally unique to you.

So, there you have it! Crafting a junk journal is all about letting go of perfection and embracing creativity. Gather your materials, let your imagination run wild, and most importantly, have fun with it. Happy journaling, my crafty friend!

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The world of recycled crafts

1 Comment / Art, Cardboard Art, Crafts, creativity, Family fun, Multimedia Art, Recycled crafts / admin

We visited recycled crafts briefly before Christmas, and you can read that post here. But if you’re interested in diving into the world of recycled crafts, it’s a great way to reduce waste, and it’s also incredibly satisfying to transform something old into something new and beautiful. Let’s walk through how you can start making crafts with recycled items, and I’ll share some cool project ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

Getting Started with Recycled Crafts

First things first, you’ll want to gather your materials. This is the treasure hunt phase, and honestly, it’s half the fun. Look around your home for items that you’re no longer using. Think old newspapers, jars, cans, fabric scraps, or even broken electronics. The idea is to see potential in these everyday items that are often overlooked.

Choosing Your Craft

Now, what can you make with these items? The possibilities are pretty much endless, but let’s narrow it down to a few ideas to get you started:

Newspaper Weaving: Old newspapers can be rolled or folded into strips and woven to create baskets, coasters, or even a chic clutch purse. It’s a simple technique with stunning results.
Jar Lanterns: Have some empty jars? Clean them out and get creative. You can paint them, wrap them in twine or fabric, or even fill them with fairy lights to make cozy lanterns for your home.
Fabric Scrap Quilting: If you’ve got a collection of fabric scraps, quilting is a fantastic way to use them up. You don’t need to make a full quilt; start with something small, like a pillow cover or a tote bag.
Can Planters: Empty cans can be cleaned, painted, and transformed into cute planters for your succulents or herbs. It’s a great way to add some green to your space.

Tips for Successful Recycled Crafting

Clean Your Materials: Make sure everything is clean before you start. This will help your crafts look more finished and professional.
Be Open to Experimentation: Not every project will turn out perfectly, and that’s okay! The beauty of working with recycled materials is that each piece is unique.
Use What You Have: The goal is to reduce waste, so try to use existing materials and tools from around your house before buying new.
Think Outside the Box: The best recycled crafts come from thinking creatively. An old ladder could become a bookshelf, or a broken picture frame could turn into an earring holder.

Why Bother with Recycled Crafts?

Aside from the obvious environmental benefits, crafting with recycled materials can be incredibly rewarding. It’s a way to challenge your creativity, save money, and make something truly unique. Plus, it’s a fantastic conversation starter. Imagine the compliments you’ll get when your friends find out your chic new vase used to be a pasta sauce jar!

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into your recycling bin and see what treasures you can find. Whether you’re making a gift, adding a personal touch to your home, or simply enjoying a creative afternoon, recycled crafting is a wonderful way to make something meaningful. Happy crafting!

Here are some other resources about recycled crafts to try:

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Making Clay Jewelry with Different Types of Clay

Leave a Comment / Art, Crafts, creativity, Making Jewelry / admin

Welcome to the world of clay jewelry making! Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, the versatility of clay offers endless possibilities to unleash your creativity. In this post, we’ll explore various types of clay and guide you through the process of crafting your own exquisite jewelry pieces. Although we have talked before about making jewelry at home here, this post goes into more detail about using clay as the medium.

Types of Clay for Jewelry Making:

Polymer Clay: Known for its durability and ease of use, polymer clay is a popular choice for jewelry makers. It comes in a variety of colors and can be easily molded and baked in a home oven. Brands like Sculpey and Fimo are great options.
Air-Dry Clay: If you prefer not to use an oven, air-dry clay is a fantastic alternative. It’s lightweight and perfect for making larger statement pieces. However, it’s less durable than polymer clay and more suitable for occasional wear.
Metal Clay: A unique form of clay that contains metal particles, metal clay can be shaped like traditional clay. After firing, it turns into pure metal jewelry, perfect for creating fine and intricate designs.
Epoxy Clay: This is a self-hardening clay known for its adhesive properties and strength. It’s ideal for creating mixed-media jewelry and embedding objects.

Basic Tools and Materials:

Clay (your choice)
Rolling pin or pasta machine
Shape cutters or knives

Oven (for polymer and metal clays)
Kiln (for metal clay, if preferred)
Sandpaper
Jewelry findings (earring hooks, necklace chains, jump rings)
Glaze or varnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

Designing Your Piece: Start by sketching your design. Consider the size, shape, and how it will be worn.
Conditioning the Clay: For polymer and epoxy clays, knead the clay until it’s soft and pliable. This makes it easier to work with.
Shaping: Roll out your clay to an even thickness. Use cutters or a knife to cut out your design. For beads, roll the clay into balls or other shapes.
Adding Texture and Details: Use stamps, textures, or tools to add details to your clay pieces. This is where you can get really creative!
Curing the Clay: For polymer and metal clays, bake according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Air-dry clay will harden at room temperature.
Sanding and Finishing: Once your pieces are cured and cooled, sand any rough edges. You can apply a glaze or varnish for a glossy finish.
Assembling the Jewelry: Attach your clay pieces to jewelry findings using strong adhesive or jump rings.
Final Touches: Add any additional elements, like beads or stones, to complete your piece.

Making your own clay jewelry is not just a craft; it’s an expression of your unique style and creativity. Each type of clay offers a different experience and finish, allowing you to experiment and find your favorite medium. Share your creations with us in the comments below, or tag us on social media. Happy crafting!

Extra reading for your information:

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Articulated Paper Dolls: A Step-by-Step Guide

1 Comment / Art, Crafts, creativity, Family fun, Therapeutic benefits of art / admin

Today, we’re diving into the whimsical world of articulated paper dolls. These charming creations are not just a throwback to simpler times; they’re a fantastic way to spark imagination, exercise your artistic skills, and create something truly unique. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, making articulated paper dolls is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Occassionally, we may experience a blockage in making our art, and when that happens, this little craft is the perfect answer. Make a few of these, and your block will be gone. Let’s explore why this craft is so captivating and how you can create your very own paper doll.

Why Articulated Paper Dolls?

Articulated paper dolls stand out in the digital age as a hands-on, tactile form of art. They encourage us to step away from screens and engage in the physical act of creating. The process of designing, cutting, and assembling these dolls is not only therapeutic but also a fantastic way to enhance fine motor skills and attention to detail. Moreover, they offer endless possibilities

for customization, making each doll a unique piece of art that reflects your personal style and creativity.

Materials Needed:

Cardstock or thick paper
Pencil and eraser
Fine-tip markers or paints
Scissors
Mini brads or split pins
A single-hole punch (optional)
Your imagination!

Step-by-Step Guide:

Design Your Doll:

Start by sketching your doll on cardstock. You can create a human figure, an animal, or any character that sparks your interest. Remember to draw separate parts for the head, torso, arms, and legs. Keep in mind that these parts will need to move, so consider how they’ll connect. If that is not what you want to do, there are many templates for dolls available online. You could start out using one of these and then get creative and make your own with the next one.

Add Details and Colors:

Once your basic outline is ready, it’s time to bring your character to life. Use fine-tip markers, colored pencils, or even paint to add details like facial features, clothing, and accessories. This is where your creativity really shines—the sky’s the limit! Break out all your craft and art supplies and go wild!

Cut Out the Parts:

With a steady hand, carefully cut out the doll’s parts. Precision is key, so take your time. If you’re working with younger artists, adult supervision is recommended for this step.

Create Joints:

Use a single-hole punch or carefully poke holes at the joints (shoulders, hips, knees, etc.). Make sure the holes are not too close to the edges to prevent tearing.

Assemble with Brads:

Align the limbs with the corresponding parts of the torso, and insert mini brads or split pins through the holes. Secure them at the back, but ensure they’re loose enough to allow movement.

Final Touches:

Once assembled, give your doll a final check. You might want to add more details or even create a background or props for your new creation.

Creating an articulated paper doll is more than just a crafting activity; it’s a journey into the realms of imagination and creativity. Each doll tells a story, reflects a mood, or captures a moment, making them not just toys but pieces of art. This activity is perfect for artists of all ages and skill levels, offering a delightful break from the digital world and a chance to engage in something tangibly creative.

So, grab your materials and let your creativity flow. We can’t wait to see the incredible characters you’ll bring to life. Share your creations with us and inspire others in our art community. Remember, in the world of articulated paper dolls, every cut, color, and joint is a reflection of your unique artistic journey. Happy crafting! 🎨🖌️📏

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Cardboard Really is Versatile for Crafting

Leave a Comment / Art, Art mediums, Cardboard Art, Crafts / admin

It seems that every time I turn around, I am getting something in a cardboard box. This could create a huge pile of mess; however, I have recently discovered the joy of crafting with cardboard. Now I see that stack of flattened boxes as a medium for crafts and art. I love that I can keep most of these boxes out of the landfill and turn them into reused articles so they get a new life. That, to me, is very satisfying. So, if you are like me, here is an entire post about the wonders of using these boxes for making things you can use.

It isn’t just for packaging; it’s a versatile, accessible, and often free material that can spark creativity in art and crafts. From DIY projects to intricate sculptures, cardboard offers endless possibilities for those willing to explore its potential.

Did you know that you can even make sturdy end tables out of cardboard? Watch this to see how: https://youtu.be/GoXanGfXsgc?si=Ia4LIJX1nzqUVlJv

One of the simplest yet most creative uses of this medium is in making decorative items like DIY cardboard cacti. These charming creations are not only easy to make, but they also add a unique touch to any space. Imagine transforming everyday packaging from cereal boxes or Amazon packages into adorable cacti that never need watering!

For those who enjoy weaving, cardboard offers a fantastic base for circle weaving projects. This activity is not only fun for adults but also a great way for kids to develop their fine motor skills. The result? Beautiful wall hangings that add a personal touch to your home decor.

Book lovers can appreciate the practicality of the medium in making DIY triangle bookends. This project is not only functional but also adds a stylish element to your bookshelves. And the best part? It’s an eco-friendly way to repurpose cardboard that might otherwise end up in the recycling bin.

If you’re into decoupage, cardboard trays can be transformed into beautiful pieces of art. By applying decorative napkins using the decoupage technique, you can create stunning trays that are perfect for gifting or adding a touch of elegance to your home.

For those with a knack for organization, this medium can be used to create cute storage boxes. This is particularly useful for repurposing diaper boxes or other large cardboard containers. Not only do you get organized, but you also get to do it in style!

How about making beautiful African masks to adorn your walls? You can easily do this with cardboard. Pinterest has many examples for you to look at if you decide to make these.

One of the most surprising uses of the medium is in creating faux metal letters for home decor. With the right painting techniques, it can be made to look like metal, offering a chic and inexpensive way to decorate your space.

For those who enjoy paper crafts, making beautiful paper from waste cardboard is a fulfilling project. This process involves creating a pulp from shredded cardboard and then forming it into sheets of paper. It’s a fantastic way to recycle and create something both beautiful and useful.

And for the sculptors out there, cardboard can serve as an excellent base for paper-mache clay sculptures. This method involves creating a clay-like substance that can be molded over a cardboard armature. Once dry, these sculptures are strong and can be painted or decorated as desired.

We touched on using cardboard before, and in case you missed that, you can find that post here.

In conclusion, cardboard is much more than just a packaging material. It’s a canvas for creativity, a foundation for functional art, and a medium for sustainable crafting. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, there’s a cardboard project that’s perfect for you. So next time you’re about to throw away that cardboard box, think again—it could be your next great art project!

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Easy and Fun Christmas Crafts using recycled materials

1 Comment / Cardboard Art, Crafts, creativity, Family fun / admin

Christmas is not very far off. Why not make some Christmas crafts today? Some have already decorated for the holiday, but there are still some that have not. If you are looking for a way to make your home festive without breaking the bank, these options will be right up your alley. I absolutely love getting something pretty from a piece of paper or cardboard I would be throwing in the recycle bin. To me, it’s a win-win situation all around.

Here is a round-up of several sites

These are really good crafts for you to think about or to try. I do hope you try them out and have fun doing it!

DIY Christmas Tree Made From Cardboard

Create a stunning Christmas tree from cardboard with this innovative idea. It’s a great way to recycle and add a unique touch to your holiday decor.
Watch the tutorial on YouTube
Christmas DIY Crafts Using Cardboard

This tutorial offers various exciting Christmas craft ideas using cardboard, perfect for adding a personalized and eco-friendly touch to your festive decorations.
Explore the crafts on YouTube
Christmas Decoration Idea with Cardboard

Learn how to make affordable and charming Christmas decorations using simple cardboard. This tutorial is perfect for those looking for budget-friendly crafting ideas.
Watch the tutorial on YouTube
27 Easy Repurposed Cardboard Christmas Crafts

Pillar Box Blue offers a collection of 27 cardboard Christmas crafts and decorations made from cardboard boxes. These crafts are both affordable and eco-friendly, utilizing materials you likely already have at home.
Read more at Pillar Box Blue
45 Christmas Craft Ideas Using Paper

Unfold the magic of the festive season with these fantastic DIY Christmas paper crafts. These projects are easy to make and add a bespoke touch to your holiday season.
Explore the ideas at Pillar Box Blue

These tutorials offer a range of innovative and environmentally friendly ways to decorate for Christmas using paper and cardboard. They’re perfect for adding a unique and personal touch to your holiday season. For even more ideas, check out this older blog post. Here is another older post that is perfect for making with children.

Most of these are also appropriate to do with children, so why not settle in for an evening with the kids and make a memory as well as an ornament?

I have a video up about this same issue with six really nice ideas you might enjoy:

Easy and Fun Christmas Crafts using recycled materials Read More »

Making Jewelry at Home

1 Comment / Art, Crafts, Making Jewelry / admin

Here on this blog, I try to balance fine art education, exploring mediums, and crafting. We talked about using cardboard for art here, and we talked about homemade Christmas cards here. So I think it might be time to explore another craft, and this time I want to talk about making jewelry. Making jewelry is not only easy, but it is fun and relieves stress. The physical act of using your hands helps to calm the mind and gives it space to think and just be.

Have you ever looked at a beautiful piece of jewelry and thought, “I wish I could make something like that”? Well, I’m here to tell you that you absolutely can! Jewelry making isn’t just for the pros; it’s a super fun hobby that anyone can dive into. It’s all about letting your creativity flow, enjoying yourself, and expressing who you are through unique, wearable art.

Why Jewelry Making is Awesome for Everyone:

You know what’s great about jewelry-making? You don’t need to be an expert or have any fancy skills to start. It’s all about using what you’ve got lying around—maybe some old necklaces that could use a new life, a handful of beads, or even cool stuff you find in nature, like stones and shells. And the best part? You can make anything from earrings to bracelets—your imagination’s the limit!

Getting Started:

So, how do you jump into this? First, just gather some basic stuff like wire, beads, clasps, and maybe a pair of pliers. Then, look around for some inspiration. It could be anything—a walk in the park, flipping through a fashion magazine, or scrolling through Instagram. And don’t worry about the how-to; there are tons of free online tutorials that’ll show you the basics, like how to string beads or make simple loops with wire.

One of my very favorite items for making jewelry is paper. I love rolled beads made of paper, I love layered thick paper, and I love using paper to accent your jewelry. Paper is available to you everywhere. You don’t even need to look far to find a beautiful piece to use.

Tips for a Fun Jewelry Making Experience:

Here’s my advice: start with something easy, like a beaded necklace or cute drop earrings. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and try different materials and styles. And hey, why not join an online community or a local class? It’s a great way to meet people who love making jewelry just as much as you do.

The Joy of Creating:

The real magic of making jewelry is in the making part—using your hands to create something gorgeous. It’s so therapeutic and rewarding. You get to boost your creativity and end up with this amazing sense of achievement.

Jewelry-making is a hobby that’s open to everyone. It’s not about being perfect or having professional skills; it’s about having a blast and enjoying the creative process. So, why not grab some beads and wire and see where your creativity takes you? The next piece of jewelry you fall in love with might just be one you’ve made with your own two hands!

Resources:

Top 5 Ways to Make Jewelry for Beginners

Making Jewelry at Home Read More »

Crafts

Types of Clay for Jewelry Making:

Basic Tools and Materials:

Step-by-Step Guide:

Why Articulated Paper Dolls?

Step-by-Step Guide:

Design Your Doll:

Add Details and Colors:

Cut Out the Parts:

Create Joints:

Assemble with Brads:

Here is a round-up of several sites

DIY Christmas Tree Made From Cardboard

Christmas DIY Crafts Using Cardboard

Christmas Decoration Idea with Cardboard

27 Easy Repurposed Cardboard Christmas Crafts

45 Christmas Craft Ideas Using Paper

Why Jewelry Making is Awesome for Everyone:

Getting Started:

Tips for a Fun Jewelry Making Experience:

The Joy of Creating: