Mason Jar Lanterns

I was navigating the net earlier and came across a recent DIY project that I couldn't resist. What I found was a versatile piece of decor you can use in or outdoors. I'm talking lanterns people. These are super easy to make, eco friendly, and used as an accent piece anywhere! You can head on over to Make-it-do.com for the full tutorial. I myself will be using these in my garden and yard as warm accents for low level lighting as well as a potential additive for my Halloween display.

Enjoy
-Mr. Crafty

Mother's Day Projects: Picture Frame Jewelery Holder

Money is tight right now. But money doesn't have to stand in the way of honoring your mom (and Mother Earth). You can make a beautiful and more importantly, meaningful, gift for Mother's Day. And what mom would not be thrilled to receive an item infused with meaning made by hand from someone she loves? I now present to you the most affordable, kid friendly, customizable, super special terrific fantastic (I cant think of any other adjectives) mother's day gift to end them all!




PICTURE FRAME JEWELERY HOLDER

1) Choose an old picture frame and remove any backing. You can decorate the frame with paint, fabric or other appropriate decoration to match mom's bedroom or bathroom decor or leave it plain.

2) Cut a piece of window screen that overlaps the back of the frame 1/2 inch. (Remember when the dog charged through the screen and ripped it to shreds? If it's still lying around, here's the perfect use for it.)

3) Staple or nail the window screen to the back of the frame.

4) Screw in some cuphooks along the bottom of the frame to hold rings and/or in the top corners to hold necklaces and bracelets. Earring backs fit through the screen.

5) If you want the holder to hang, add a picture hangar to the back. Otherwise, it can sit on a small easel or rest against the wall.

Rock on mom!!!!

-Mr. Crafty

Spring Projects: Crochet Baby Gift Ideas

The new mom or mom-to-be often finds herself with a deluge of baby clothes, diaper bags and bath supplies. These are all useful gifts, but for crafters, a more unique approach is often desired and so very appreciated.

One of the most popular ways to make baby gifts is by crocheting. With a crochet hook and some yarn, you can create all sorts of beautiful and utilitarian baby gifts. Here are a few items to consider…..

* Baby blanket - When someone mentions crocheting, the first thing that many non-crocheters think of is a baby blanket. There’s no doubt that this is one of the most popular crocheted baby gifts, and with good reason. It’s something that new parents always need, it’s easily matched to any nursery décor, and it can be passed down from generation to generation.

* Socks and booties – If you’re on a budget but want to create a useful baby gift, try crocheting some tiny socks or booties. These take very little yarn, so you may be able to make them with leftovers from other projects. If you use a thick yarn, they are perfect for keeping the little one’s feet warm during the winter.

* Clothing - Baby clothes of all types are adorable, but crocheted items are especially nice. Baby girls look adorable in crocheted dresses. Sweaters are great for boys and girls in the winter. And crocheted hats are perfect for keeping newborns’ heads warm. If you have the time, you could even create an entire matching layette set.

* Toys – Most of the time when we think of crocheted items, we picture either items we can wear or home décor. But crocheted toys make wonderful and unique baby gifts. They’re nice and soft, and as long as we don’t add any beads or other embellishments, they’re very safe for infants. Making them in bright colors and putting a rattle securely inside will stimulate baby’s mind.

* Gift baskets - A gift basket is nice for any occasion, but a crocheted basket is ideal for a baby gift. A nice, soft basket is great for holding an assortment of baby things such as bottles, bibs and bath items. And it can double as a handy caddy for mom to carry around frequently used supplies.

Crocheted baby gifts are attractive and functional, and the sentiment behind them adds to their beauty. You don’t have to be a master crocheter to create them, either. Many items can be made using only the simple single stitch. So the next time a friend or family member announces that she’s expecting a bundle of joy, get out your hook and yarn and create a gift that’s sure to be adored.

Happy Crafting!
-Mr. Crafty