Duct tape is commonly used in situations that require a strong, flexible, and very sticky tape.  When I originally thought of Duct Tape I thought of construction workers and fathers using duct tape to fix things.  As a matter of fact, my father could use duct tape to fix anything.  Well, that is what he thought…. most things were not fixed at all.  Well, that’s a whole other story.   Today’s post is about duct tape, but not duct tape used in that way.  No, today’s post is about Awesome Crafts made with Duct (Duck) Tape.  Here in this post I have looked around the internet and found some amazing duct tape crafts that are made by some creative people.  You have to check them out.  I have Duct Tape crafts that you can wear and I have Duct Tape crafts that you can play with….. you are sure to find here duct tape crafts that you will enjoy.  So, let’s get started.

Awesome Crafts Made with Duct (Duck) Tape

(1)  Baseball Cap

It’s Spring time.  And, in Spring there is something that I can’t get enough of…. Baseball.  But, you can’t go to a baseball game without wearing a cap.  Well, here is a baseball cap I would be proud to wear…. a Duct Tape Baseball Cap.  Check out Duck Brand for the full instructions on how to make this for yourself.

(2)  Bowling Pin

Do you like bowling?  Do your kids like bowling?  Well, how about making these duct tape bowling pins for an indoor bowling game…. that would be so much fun.  It is incredible how creative people can be….. just look at this awesome bowling pin.  Make sure to go to Duck Tape Fun for all the details.

(3)  Duct Tape Dress

Do you have somewhere special to go…. but nothing to wear?  Well, check out this beautiful dress made out of duct tape.  I found this duct tape dress over at Craftster and it is really something.   She explains how she used garbage bags, streamers and duct tape to make this beautiful dress.

(4)  Duct Tape Wallets

These aren’t your standard gray duct tape wallets…. these are super colorful and wild duct tape wallets.  I love them!!  And, the cool part is that you can actually hold your money and cards inside of them.  Make sure to check out Crafty Nest for all the fun crafting details.

(5)  Valentine Heart

It is true that the best gifts are not the ones bought, but the ones that were made from scratch.  Well, how about showing your love with this Duct Tape Valentine’s Heart.    It is pretty much a duct tape stuffed item and it is super duper cute.  Make sure you check out Duck Brand for yourself.

(6)  Bedroom Accessories

Now, these bedroom accessories are absolutely adorable.  Who would have thought they are made from Duct Tape.  She used the zebra print duct tape for this project and with the pink pop of color these accessories couldn’t look any better.  Check out House of Hepworths for all the crafty details.

(7)  Duct Tape Hair Bow

This bow is BEAUTIFUL and it is made out of duct tape….. who would have thought that the word “beautiful” and “duct tape” could appear in the same sentence.  But, apparently they have.  I found this duct tape craft over at HubPages and Daisy Mariposa explains in great detail how you too can make this duct tape hair bow.

(8)  Duct Tape Tote Bag

This Duct Tape Tote Bag is one of our crafts that we did a little while ago.  This tote bag is made completely out of duct tape….  nothing else.  And, believe it or not it is amazingly strong.    You can even use it for carrying your groceries…. it’s just that strong.  Make sure to check out our post “How to Make Duct Tape Tote Bags” and make one of these duct tape tote bags for yourself.

(9)  Duct Tape Clutch

What an amazing purse!!  It is pretty incredible and it is, of course, made out of duct tape.  The crafter made it out of different color duct tape to give this duct tape clutch a colorful look.  I just love it!!  JoAnn has all the details.  Make sure to go to that site and check it out for yourself.

(10)  Duct Tape Flip-Flops

These flip-flops are just so adorable….. they are really, really cute.  And, the flower and straps are made from purple duct tape.  They are just so cute!!   I found this duct tape craft over at Skip To My Lou ….. make sure to go there and check it out to find out how she took an ordinary pair of flip-flops and made them special with duct tape.

(11)  Duct Tape Sun Hat

If you want to see a truly adorable craft that was made from duct tape then you have found it here.  100 Directions shows you how you can take Hello Kitty Duct Tape and some hot pink Duct Tape and you can make it into these cutie patootie sun hats…. just brilliant.  Make sure to check out the craft for yourself.

(12)  Duct Tape Rose Wreath

This amazing Rose Wreath is beautiful enough to be hung on any door anytime of the year….. it is just that attractive.  And, it is made of Duct Tape, of course… Otherwise it wouldn’t be in this post.  I found this duct tape craft over at Poppies at Play…. check it out because she gives a really excellent tutorial.

(13)  Duct Tape Rings

Aren’t these rings adorable?  They really truly are.  No one would believe that these rings are a duct tape craft…. but they are.  Any girl would love not only crafting them, but wearing them too.  Make sure to check out Living Locurto for all the fun crafting details.

(14)  Duct Tape Flower Pens

These Duct Tape Flower Pens are so cute….. what girl wouldn’t love using these pens to write?  I think they would all love using them.  I love how she used all different color duct tape to make the flowers…. it just makes them even more colorful and lovely.  Make sure you check out Seven Sisters so you too can make these.

Technorati Tags: duct tape, duct tape crafts, duct tape crafts for kids, duct tape activities, duct tape activities for kids, duck tape crafts, duck tape crafts for kids, duck tape activities, duck tape activities for kids, duct tape projects, duct tape projects for kids

Shana · Cool Finds and Tips, crafts for girls, Duct Tape, no-sew crafts, Parenting Articles · 2 Comments

If you ever had an Altoid mint you know that the mints come in this wonderful little tin.  But, who would have thought all the imaginative things you could do with this little tin.  By scouring the internet I came across a bunch of Altoid crafts you can make.  In this post I am listing 15 of the coolest crafts you can make with Altoid Tins.   The crafts range in skill level between easy and more challenging.  But, you can count on each of them being a lot of fun.   So, scroll through the different Altoid Tin crafts and you are sure to find one that you will like.  So, grab your Altoid Tin Containers and let’s get started on some fun crafts.

15 Cool Crafts Made with Altoid Tins

 (1)  Altoids Mini Flashlight

This Altoid Tin craft is a little more complicated than we typically list in this blog, but how can I make a post about Altoid Tin Crafts without putting this one in it.  I found this craft over at Instructables and it is an awesome one.  Check out their site to find out how you too can make this Altoid Tin Mini Flashlight.

(2)  Altoids Turtle Keepsake Box

Check out this elaborate Keepsake Box…. and it is made from an Altoid Tin container and Super Sculpey.  I found this fun Altoid Tin craft over at Sculpey Club….. check out her site for all the fun crafting details.

(3)  Altoids Pincushion

I absolutely love this Altoid Tin Pincushion idea.  What you can’t see here is that inside she added magnets so that inside you can hold pins, needles and such.  Make sure to check out My Recycled Bags so you too can make this Altoid Pincushion.

(4)  Altoid Tin Wallet

Here is a great way to keep your cash….. keep it in an Altoid Tin Wallet.  Roxy Craft shows us how to make this wallet from an Altoid Tin Container…. she explains the craft in a very detailed step-by-step “how-to”.  Check out the site for yourself.

(5)  Magnetic Travel Board Game Set

This Altoid Tin Craft is from our very own site.  I previously posted How to Make a Magnetic Travel Board Game Set from an Altoid Tin Container.  It is a fun craft and the outcome is you will have 8 games to play in the car while traveling.  Make sure to check this one out.

(6)  Altoids Tin Garden

Here is another great way to use those extra Altoid Tin Containers…. use them to make a beautiful garden.  Gomi Style shows us how to do just that.  Just by adding a bit of potting soil to the tin you can have your very own small little garden.

(7)  Travel Candle

I found this idea over at Design Sponge and what a great idea it is.   Here she gives you all the step-by-step details on how to make a travel candle out of an Altoid Tin Container.  She points out how great these can come into handy during an emergency… after all, you never can have enough candles.

(8)  Altoid Tin Mini Toolboxes

I found this awesome Altoid Tin craft over at Alpha Mom.  She came up with this super creative idea to surprise Dad for Father’s Day.  She made a few so that Dad could hold the bits and bolts of his choice.  Make sure to check out the website for all the crafting details.

(9)  Altoid Tin Gift Card Holder

Here is a clever way to keep a hold of all those Gift Cards you have accumulated.  Store them in this Altoid Tin Gift Card Holder.  I found this Altoid Tin Craft over at Yahoo Voices and I dig the idea.  Check out the website for the tutorial.

(10)  Altoid Tin Jewelry Box

You would never believe it by looking at it, but this beautiful jewelry box is made from an Altoid Tin and Polymer Clay.  I found this fun Altoid Tin craft over at TLC and I love it.  Get the full crafting “how-to” over at the website.

(11)  Pocket Yard Pool Table

Ok, how cute is this pool table?  So cute!!  And it is small enough that you can take it pretty much anywhere.  How many other pool tables can you say that about?  You can find the tutorial over at Instructables.   This is just so creative.

(12)  Business Card Holder

What a clever way to hold your business cards…. and I must say quite attractive too.   This is a great way to use your left over Altoid Tin for something useful.   Check out Better Homes and Gardens for all the crafting details.

(13)  Altoid Earbud Case

This is a fantastic idea.  Did you ever put your earbuds somewhere and when you wanted to use them you found they were tangled up?  Well, this Altoid Earbud Case will prevent that…  put your Earbuds inside and find that they will never tangle again.  Charlotte’s Fancy came up with this brilliant idea.  Check out her site for the details.

(14)  Doll Suitcase

Isn’t this an adorable suitcase for your doll….. and, your doll will surely love it.  Made from an Altoid Tin and masking tape this suitcase has an aged look to it…. like a suitcase that is well traveled.  Check out Crafty Crafts for the full instructions on how to make this.

(15)  First Aid Kit

Everyone needs a first aid kit.  You don’t know when you will need some first aid treatment…. so having a kit is very important.  But, sometimes a first aid kit can be bulky and when you are “out & about” you can’t carry a bulky one…. well, how about making a first aid kit out of a Altoid Tin.  Check out Instructables for all the details.

Top image by Alpha Mom

Technorati Tags: altoids, altoids crafts, crafts with altoids, altoids tin games, altoid tin crafts, altoid tin crafts for kids, tin crafts, tin crafts for kids, altoid tin activities, altoid tin activities for kids, tin container crafts, tin container crafts for kids

Shana · Clay & Sculpting Crafts Ideas, Cool Finds and Tips, Decorative Paper, Felt, Keepsake Crafts Ideas, Make Your Own Games, Parenting Articles, Tins & Altoids Tins · 7 Comments

The styles of Neckties comes and goes pretty quickly.   Many men have a ton of extra ties in their closet that they don’t even wear.  Why not put the extra ties to good use?  I am going to show you 13 Cool Crafts made with Neckties.  All of the necktie crafts shown here will have tutorials so that you too can make these crafts.  I will not show you something that you can’t make for yourself.  Whether you want a necktie purse or a necktie coffee cozy…. you will find your necktie crafts here.   So, let’s get started.

13 Cool Crafts Made with Neckties

(1)  Necktie Purse

Here is a creative way to make a purse.  Imagine the compliments you will get while you carry this bag.  This purse is made from 8 neckties….. check out Sonya Style for all the crafting details.

(2)  Necktie Daisy Pins

I found this craft over at Crafters and it is a great Necktie craft.  She will show you how you too can make these Daisies out of Neckties.  Imagine how gorgeous you will look wearing these Necktie Daisy Pins.  Check out the site for the details.

(3)  Tie Angel

How gorgeous is this Angel?  So pretty.  And, she is made from a man’s necktie.  This Angel would be great for Christmas time decorating.  Make sure to check out Blue Bonnet Village for the instructions on how to make this craft.

(4)  Necktie TV Remote Holder

I found this necktie craft over at Yahoo Voices.  Here she made this craft for father’s day…. and it is such a great idea.  Ironically people give ties for father’s day…. here she upcycles a necktie into a TV Remote Holder.  What a clever idea!!

(5)  Cellphone or iPod Bag

Here is a clever way to hold a cellphone or iPod….. carry it in this awesome Cellphone or iPod bag made from Neckties.  How cute is that?!  So cute.  I found this necktie craft over at Mindful Momma and I love it.  Make sure to check it out for yourself.

(6)  Coffee Cozy

What a great way to drink hot coffee and save your hands….. use this necktie coffee cozy.  I love this idea!!   I found this necktie craft over at Lime and Aqua Studio.  Check out their website for the full craft details.

(7)  Necktie Necklace

Look how beautiful these necklaces are…. and they are made from a necktie.  Made from an old necktie and some Mardi Gras beads this necklace turns out really cute.  You can get the full craft “how-to” by going to artstar by aletha.

(8)  Necktie Pumpkins

Now, these pumpkin are no ordinary fall pumpkins…. these are some of the most creative pumpkins I seen.  I found these necktie pumpkins over at Lisnaweary Quilts and the idea is super creative.  Your house will look awesome with these Necktie Pumpkins as decorations this Fall.

(9)  Necktie Headband

This necktie headband is so super cute…. I love the idea.   I found this necktie craft over at Craft Envy and she simply just picked up a necktie from a Thrift Store.  But, feel free to recycle any type of tie that is no longer being used.  Check out the website for all the details.

(10)  Necktie Glasses Case

What an awesome idea….. use a necktie to make a glasses case.   What is so cool about using a necktie as a glasses case… it not only looks good, but it also has its own padding for protecting your glasses.  Check out Make Projects for the step-by-step how-to.

(11)  Flower Pin

Who would have thought that a masculine necktie can be made into such a lovely flower?  But, if you check out My Heart is Yours Blog you will learn that it can.  Here she shows you how to take just a necktie and a hot glue gun to make this flower.  Make sure to check out her site.

(12)  Bow Tie

Wow, what a super creative idea…. take a Necktie and make it into a Bow Tie.  Clever!!  I found this necktie craft over at Make It and Love It .  And, I must admit it…. I do love it.  She takes a necktie and simple Velcro closure for this craft… make sure to check it out.

(13)  Necktie Skirt

Who would have thought that a few neckties can look so beautiful on a lady, but Rick Rack Ruby shows you that it can.  Check out her site to find out how she takes about 14 ties and makes them into a beautiful skirt.  So creative!!

Technorati Tags: neckties, necktie crafts, necktie crafts for kids, tie crafts, tie crafts for kids, neck tie crafts, neck tie crafts for kids, recycle neckties, recycle neck ties, recycle necktie crafts, upcycle neckties, upcycle necktie crafts, necktie activities, necktie activities for kids

Shana · Bags & Purses Crafts, Cool Finds and Tips, Neckties, Parenting Articles, Recycling and Upcycling Crafts · 2 Comments

Earth Day will be here in just a couple of weeks.  In honor of Earth Day I thought I would scour the internet looking for cool ideas for Earth Day crafts.  All of the crafts that I found and have listed here are made from recycled materials.  Earth Day is a special day to celebrate the Earth and to increase awareness and appreciation of the Earth’s natural environment.  And, I think making crafts from recycled materials such as the ones found here is a great way to teach children about recycling and the importance of doing that to help save our Earth.  So, without further ado….

Coolest Earth Day Craft Ideas

(1)  Newspaper Roses

Look how beautiful these Roses are?  They really are lovely & they are completely made from recycled newspapers.  Check out the craft and all its details over at Zakka Life.

(2)  Serving Tray

I love, love, love this idea!!  Crafty Nest went to a Salvage Yard and noticed that there were old cupboards there.  She picked up a white one and with a little creativity and a lot of fun she was able to make this beautiful serving tray.  Check out her website so you too can make this.

(3)  Can-Do Robots

Made from tin cans these robots are so freakin cute.  What is really cool is that their features are made of magnets, so they can be removed.  Which makes these robots like a Mr. Potato Head…. How fun is that?!  Check out the craft details over at Family Fun.

(4)  Cardboard Ottoman or Side Table

What a clever and creative idea!!  Made from recycled cardboard tubes you can choose to make either a side table or an ottoman…. or even make both.  When you look at them from above they are actually daisies.   Check out Esprit Cabane for all the crafting details.

(5)  Smashed Soda Can Animals

Ok, this cow is really cute, isn’t he?!  But, wait till you check out Fave Crafts….. they have not only a cow, but they will show you how to make a pig and a bear too.  Make all three recycled can crafts and you will have a beginning to your very own recycled animal farm.

(6)  Milk Jug Shade

Now, this recycled craft turns out beautiful, doesn’t it?  Honestly, if I saw this I would have no idea it was actually made from recycled milk jugs.  But, it is.  I found this craft over at Mother Earth News.  Check out their site for all the wonderful craft details.

(7)  Recycled Picnic Basket

I found this recycled picnic basket over at bron marshall and for the main basket it is actually made from a recycled beer six-pack.  Isn’t that a clever idea?  They other container is actually made from a recycled half dozen egg carton…. they simply added a handle.  Make sure to check out their site for the full craft details.

(8)  Newspaper Basket

This is an amazing basket!!  And, it is completely made from Newspaper.  Look how sturdy it looks too…. I love it.   How About Orange shows you step-by-step how to make this basket yourself.

(9)  Recycled Glass Chandelier

Oh I just love this recycled craft idea…. it might just be my favorite.  I found this recycled craft over at Casa Sugar.    With a few recycled materials and some tea lights  you too can have this stunning glass chandelier.  I love the way they show this chandelier being outside…. it would be perfect for a fun outside party.

(10)  Creative Notepads

Here is a creative way to recycle those leftover notebook pages and even those left over paper scraps.  Esprit Cabane shows us how to take those leftover paper products and make them into cute little pocket size notepads.  Check out her site for the full details.

(11)  Toilet Paper Tube Albums

These Toilet Paper Tube Albums are just precious.  They are a beautiful way to store special keepsakes and pictures of events that you don’t want to lose.  Those Northern Skies shows you step-by-step how you too can make these albums from recycled toilet paper tubes.

(12)  Magazine Boxes

Here is a creative and imaginative way to recycle those stacks of magazines you keep at home.  When made like the tutorial on Abstract Octopus you can actually store things in these boxes.  Check out the site for the full craft details.

(13)  Plastic Cup Earrings

Aren’t these earrings adorable?  You would never realize they were made from a plastic cup unless I told you.  I found this idea over at Punk Projects and I think it is a great way to recycle plastic cups… plus the craft is fun to do.  Make sure to check out her website for the details.

Technorati Tags: Earth Day, Earth Day crafts, Earth Day crafts for kids, Earth Day activities, Earth Day activities for kids, crafts made from recycled materials, recycled crafts, recycled crafts for kids, environmental crafts, environmental crafts for kids

Shana · Cans, Caps and Lids, Cardboard Boxes, Cardboard Tubes Rolls, Cool Finds and Tips, Earth Day Crafts, Egg Cartons, Green Environmental Crafts, Jars, Magazines, Milk Cartons and Containers, Parenting Articles, Recycling and Upcycling Crafts · 2 Comments

Passover will be here in just a couple of days.  And with Passover comes the wonderful Passover Seder.  And, even though we know how fantastic Passover Seder is…. we know how difficult it is to get the kids to sit still and enjoy the Passover Seder.  Well, how about if they help out with the Seder?  The kids can make the Seder Plate for Passover.  Even if it isn’t the main Seder Plate you use for the Seder they can at least work on the Children’s table Passover Seder Plate.  Beings that the children helped make the Passover Seder Plate will hold their attention a little more as they will want to pay attention to see how it will be used during the Seder.  So, scroll through the many Passover Seder Plates crafts below…. you are sure to find the one that works for you and your children.  Have a Happy Passover.

Ideas for Kids to Make Seder Plates for Passover

(1)  Spring Seder Plate

I found this awesome Seder Plate over at Kaboose.  Here they keep the color green to remind you of spring and all the good times ahead.  What a clever idea!!

(2)  Star of David Seder Plate

 Nick Jr. has this Seder Plate Craft all figured out.  They use 6 six inch paper plates to create the Passover Seder Plate…. not to mention a Star of David Coloring Page.  Put it all together to create this awesome Passover Seder Plate.

(3)  Printable Seder Plate Craft

If you are looking for a super easy Passover Seder Plate Craft then this is the one for you.  Free Kids Crafts gives you this craft that is simply a printable…. print off and cut.  Doesn’t get much easier than that.

(4)  Bright Passover Seder Plate

Isn’t this a beautiful Passover Seder Plate?  I love the use of bright colors.  Nothing keeps the attention of the little ones more than bright colors.  Parent Dish shows you step-by-step how to make this Seder Plate.

(5)  Porcelain Passover Seder Plate

Family Fun uses an ovenproof plate and glaze paint to prepare their Passover Seder Plate.  They have the right idea as once baked this item is quite durable.  These Seder Plates become special to the child as they will be painting them themselves.

(6) Model Clay Passover Seder Plate

Crayola has an original spin on the traditional Passover Seder Plate.  Their craft is constructed from Model Clay.  Check out their site to get the full details and make this Passover Seder Plate yourself.

(7)  Jeweled Passover Seder Plate

This is a beautiful Passover Seder Plate.  In case you can’t see it, there are lovely stones all around the outside of this plate.  My Activity Maker shows you how you too can make this beautiful Passover Seder Plate.

(8)  Paper Seder Plate

If you are looking for an easy Passover Seder Plate than this is the craft for you.  Made from a Paper Plate and pictures of the Ceremonial Food this craft doesn’t get any easier.  Check out Joyful Jewish to see how to do this craft.

(9)  Tissue Paper Passover Seder Plate

Here is a fun craft to do with the youngest of kids for Passover.  Kids love to work with tissue paper and this Passover Seder Plate Craft has plenty of tissue paper.  Check out Delicate Construction for the full details of the craft.

(10)  Denture Cream Passover Seder Plate

Yes, you read this right…. this craft was made with Denture Cream.  Holidash used Denture Cream to hold the dishes to the Seder Plate.  Check out the full details on their site… you will have to scroll to the 2nd slide.

(11)  Passover Prep

I found this Passover Seder Craft over at Maybe Sew.  She has the right idea on how to teach the kids a little bit about each of the foods on the Seder Plate…. she uses different items other than the norm and has the kids guess what they should be.  Check out the site for the full details.

Technorati Tags: Passover, Passover crafts, Passover activities, Passover arts and crafts, Passover Seder Plates, Passover Seder Plate crafts, Passover crafts for kids, Passover Seder Plate Crafts for kids, Seder plate crafts, Seder Plate crafts for kids, Jewish crafts, Jewish crafts for kids

Shana · Candy and Food, Clay & Sculpting Crafts Ideas, Coloring Pages & Printables, Cool Finds and Tips, Crafts Foam, Paper, Paper Plates, Parenting Articles, Passover Crafts, Plastic Containers, stones and rocks · 0 Comments

Chinese New Year falls on January 23rd this Year.  And, in honor of Chinese New Year I put together a list of crafts just about the Chinese New Year.  You will find that most of them are Dragon Crafts and you might wonder why….. well, I will tell you why.  This year is the Year of the Dragon.  So, to honor that fact the majority of the crafts I have listed here will be Dragon Crafts.  Not all of them…. there are plenty of fun other crafts that have nothing to do with Dragons.  So, check out the post and pick a few Chinese New Year Crafts to do with the kids….. they are sure to love them.  So, let’s get started.

Here are Even More Chinese New Years Crafts

Chinese New Year Crafts – Year of the Dragon

(1) Festive Ribbon Dragon

Here is an adorable dragon perfect for this years Chinese New Years.  This is the mini sized version of the huge size dragon they use in parades for Chinese New Years.  Check out FamilyFun for all the crafting details.

(2) Pop-Up Greeting Card

Isn’t this Chinese Pop-Up Greeting card gorgeous?  I think it is really beautiful.  Imagine giving this to someone to celebrate the Chinese New Year.  Go to FreePaperCraftTemplate for all the details on how to print off this free template.

(3) Origami Dragon

Since this Chinese New Year is the year of the Dragon how could I not include an Origami Dragon in this post.  And, look how awesome this Origami Dragon turns out.  You can get the full instructions for this Origami by going to Origami-Instructions.

(4) Chinese New Year Fish

Fish is a very popular dish on Chinese New year.  Fish is a sign of prosperity…. so it is very common to see people eating fish on Chinese New Year.  With that being said I thought it was a good idea to include Fish in this Chinese New Year Post.  Go to Julie K in Taiwan for all the craft details.

(5) Chinese Dragon Door Hanger

Here is a cute craft for the youngest of crafters.  If you go to NickJr they show you how to make a simple Chinese Dragon Door Hanger that is perfect for any kid’s room.  Plus, making this craft with them is the perfect time to explain to your kids a little bit about the Chinese New Year.

(6) Dragon Mask

Now, isn’t this Dragon Mask incredible?  What little one wouldn’t love wearing this Dragon Mask all over the house.  After all, children love dressing up.  Find all the Dragon Mask “how-to’s” over at AlphaMom.  This is such a great Chinese New Year craft!!

(7) Pull-A-Long Dragon Craft

Here is a great way to make a Dragon for Chinese New Year….. made out of paper cups.  How awesome is that?!  It turns out so cute too.  This is a great way to teach your children about the Chinese culture.  Make sure to check out the craft in its entirety over at FreeKidsCrafts.

(8) Toy Spinning Hand Drum

Here is a fun toy for the Chinese New Year.  Not only fun to play with…. but also fun to make.  This toy is a great way to make lots of noise during the Chinese New Year.  Make sure to check out 4CrazyKings for all the fun details.

(9) Paper Dragon

This is a fun craft for the Chinese New Year.  This Paper Dragon turns out so beautiful…. I just love the colors.  I found this craft over at CraftJr and I just love it.  She explains how this craft is really so easy that a toddler can do it.  And, trust me…. the kids will love maneuvering around the dragon with the sticks.

(10) Marbled Red Vinasse Eggs

This Marbled Egg  is an extremely popular Chinese snack…. and it is extremely popular during Chinese New Year as the egg represents fertility.  To get this marbled effect you first crack the egg and then simmer the egg in colored liquid.  Get the full details at Pig Pigs Corner.

(11) Paper Chain Dragons

One of the easiest crafts to teach a young child is how to make a paper chain.  So, let’s use that technique to make a Paper Dragon.  The kids will have such a fun time making this craft.  The Chinese tradition is a rich tradition….. why not show this to your kids by creating this craft.  Check out NaturallyEducational for all the craft details.

(12) Flying Dragon Puppet

Okay, I officially love this craft…. I just love how it turns out.  It turns out so colorful and festive…. just like any New year should be.  Check out JellyFishJelly for the craft details and put this Flying Dragon Puppet together.  I don’t know what your kids will love more…. putting the craft together or playing with the puppet.

Technorati Tags: chinese new year, chinese new year crafts, making chinese crafts, year of the dragon, year of the dragon crafts, dragon crafts, asian crafts, asian new year crafts, chinese new year arts and crafts, chinese new year crafts for kids

Shana · Asian Crafts, Candy and Food, Chinese New Year, Cool Finds and Tips, Decorative Paper, Dragon, googley eyes, Hat and Mask Crafts, Make Your Own Greeting Cards Crafts, Origami & Paper Folding Activities, Paper, Paper Plates, Parenting Articles, Pull Along Toys, Puppets, Sticks and Wooden Dowels · 2 Comments

Today I have some awesome craft ideas for you.  Not just any craft ideas…… today I have cool outer space crafts for you.  I was making my way through the internet looking for some really creative outer space crafts and I think I found them.  I found some that are made from food and others that are made from recycled materials.  I found crafts that are perfect for the youngest of crafters and others that are meant for older children.  But, bottom line…. there is an outer space craft here for you.  So, enough with the chit-chat….. let’s get started.

11 Cool Outer Space Crafts for Kids

(1)  Orbiting Planets

Here is a great craft to help teach your kids about space and all the orbiting planets.  Plus, the craft is a lot of fun.  I found this craft over at BusyBeeKidsCrafts and they have the right idea….. use a fun craft to help teach your children about space.

(2) Recycled Robot Craft

Look how cute this robot is….. so cute!!  And, it is made from many recycled materials which makes this robot even cooler.  FreeKidsCrafts shows you how you can take tin foil, an empty container and soda bottle lids and make it into a robot like above.  How fun!!

(3) Alien Pipe Cleaner Craft

I love this craft…. I just love how these little aliens turn out.  I found this Outer Space craft over at Craft Jr. She shows you step-by-step how to make the aliens as pictured above.  But, she also explains how if you have mismatched colors or pipe cleaners of different sizes it doesn’t matter…. they are aliens after all.

(4) Spiral Galaxy

What a pretty craft….. I love all the colors in this Spiral Galaxy Craft.  And, believe it or not this Outer Space craft is made with a paper plate and some glow in the dark paint.  TheCraftyClassroom shows you in detail how you too can make this craft.

(5) Out of this World Centerpiece

Here is a cool craft that will be a lot of fun to put together.  Plus, this Out of this World Centerpiece is perfect if you are having an Outer Space birthday party.  Imagine this being the centerpiece at the Birthday table.  Find out how to make this over at MakingFriends.

(6) Grass Head Monster

This is an awesome Outer Space craft because your child is going to have to care for it everyday.  It is actually made with real grass seed so your child will have to care for it everyday for the grass to grow.  Check out FreeKidsCrafts for all the details.

(7) Googly Eyed Green Blobs

These are pretty creepy looking…. aren’t they?  I found this craft over at MakeAndTakes and she had it posted as a Halloween craft, but I thought this craft would also fit for an Alien…. so I am including it in this Outer Space crafts list.  Check out her site for all the “how-to” details.

(8)  Rocket Craft

Isn’t this Rocket craft just adorable?  I love it!!  And, it is made out of a cardboard box.  What a creative idea.  You will need help from an adult for this craft as they do use a craft knife.  But, it would be so much fun making this with your parents.  Check out Se7en for the step-by-step details.

(9) Space Cake

I just had to add this cake to this post.  I know it really isn’t a craft Per Se, but I think cooking can be quite crafty…. and it is also a ton of fun to do with an adult.  So, check out this Outer Space cake over at FamilyFun and get the recipe to cook with your parents.  This would be great for an Outer Space birthday party.

(10) Puffy Paint Moon Craft

AllKidsNetwork shows us how if you mix shaving cream and glue together it makes a lumpy and bumpy surface….. just like the moon.  Actually, what they explain is that while the glue dries it makes a smooth-textured material that puffs while it’s drying and then flattens out.  Isn’t that cool?  Go to AllKidsNetwork to check out the full details.

(11) Space Shuttle Craft

Wow, isn’t this space shuttle amazing?!  It’s just so creative.  And, the best part…. It’s made out of mostly all recycled materials.  How cool is that?!  Kids of all ages will love making this space shuttle…. the younger kids will need help from an adult.  Check out LooLeDo for the entire craft tutorial.

Technorati Tags: outer space, space, outer space crafts, space crafts, astronomy, astronomy crafts, space ship crafts, rocket crafts, alien crafts, outer space art, space art, astronomy art

Shana · Candy and Food, Cardboard Boxes, Cardboard Tubes Rolls, Cool Finds and Tips, Food, googley eyes, Milk Cartons and Containers, Paper, Paper Plates, Parenting Articles, Pipe Cleaners, Plastic Containers, Science · 0 Comments

Winter is well on its way….. and when you think of Winter what do you think of?  I know what I think of….. snow.  So, in honor of Winter and snow today’s craft is all about snowflakes.  I scoured the internet to find some really awesome snowflake crafts.  And, there are some really cool snowflake crafts out there.  So, today I’m going to present you with 14 Fun Snowflake Crafts for Winter.  For some of these crafts you will need to know how to make a snowflake, so check out these great snowflake patterns.

Check out some of our Snowflake Crafts.

14 Fun Snowflake Crafts for Winter

(1) Multicolor Snowflake Wreath

Here is a really cute Wreath perfect for the Winter Season.  It turns out quite beautiful.  BHG shows you how you too can make this Winter Wreath.  Made from left over card stock from all those Christmas Cards you got during the Christmas Season.  What a great way to recycle those greeting cards.

(2) Sparkly Snowflake

Now this is a beautiful snowflake craft.  Made from long and short sparkly beads this winter craft turns out lovely…. perfect for decorating the house for this Winter Season.  CountryLiving shows you how to do this Snowflake craft step-by-step…. you have to scroll to Slide #2.

(3) Wooden Snowflake

Now this is a fun Snowflake Craft perfect for the youngest of crafters.  Made from Popsicle sticks, glue and fake snow…. this craft promises to be a lot of fun.  You can learn how to do this craft by going to Crafts-for-all-Seasons.

(4) Pipe Cleaner Snowflake

What child doesn’t like a pipe cleaner craft.  Pipe Cleaners are just so much fun to make crafts with…. and this Snowflake craft is no exception.  Check out the MarthaStewart site to get the entire step-by-step tutorial.

(5) Snowflake Window Clings

I don’t know about your kids, but I know my kids love window clings.  They love decorating the windows for all the Holidays.  Well, winter is no exception.  Imagine decorating the windows with Snowflakes that you and your child made yourself.  FamilyFun shows you how to achieve this.

(6) Recycled Plastic Ring Snowflake Craft

Here is a very cool snowflake craft because it is made out of recycled materials.  FreeKidsCrafts shows you how you can take those 6-pak ring holders from soda and make them into beautiful snowflakes that you can hang proudly this Winter Season.

(7) Q-Tip Snowflakes

It’s hard to believe that something made from Q-Tips can turn out so beautifully…. but it does.  Made with Q-Tips, glitter and glue this Snowflake craft is not only fun…. but it also turns out perfect to hang up this Winter Season.  Check out AllFreeCrafts for the step-by-step “how-to”.

(8) Snowflake Puzzle

Here is an interesting Snowflake Craft.   This easy craft is made from Popsicle sticks and black marker.  BusyBeeKidsCrafts shows you how you can simply take a Snowflake picture and make it into a puzzle just by adding it to a row of Popsicle sticks and cutting the picture with scissors…… this makes it into a puzzle.  Simply mix up the pieces and try to put it back together again.

(9) Woven Snowflake

This woven snowflake is a great craft for kids of all ages.  Made from Popsicle sticks, yarn and glue…. you will have this snowflake craft finished in no time.  Make a few and decorate the whole house this Winter Season.  Check out the “how-to’s” of this craft over at ActivityVillage.

(10) Button Snowflakes

HandMadeBeginnings has the right idea for a Snowflake Craft…. make the snowflakes out of Popsicle sticks and Buttons.  The idea is so easy, but yet very creative.  I love it.  And, I love how the snowflakes turn out.  She explains how taking these snowflakes and adding string will make for great window decorations.  I have to agree.

(11) String Snowflake

Here is a great snowflake craft for the older children.  Basically this snowflake is made from white string and some fabric stiffener, but look how magnificent it turns out.  The snowflake craft would look awesome hanging in a window by itself or in groups.  Check out FreeCraftUnlimited for the details.

(12) Sparkly Snowflake Mobile

This is a cool craft that when done looks great hung from the ceiling.  Made from paper and glitter this snowflake craft will look festive this Winter Season hung in a classroom or even a child’s bedroom.  Get all the craft details over at Kaboose.

(13) Beaded Snowflake

I love, love, love this snowflake craft.   I dig that they used pearls in this craft….. it just gives this beaded snowflake a really wintery look.  I found this craft over at Crafts-For-All-Seasons and they did a really beautiful job putting this snowflake craft together.  Make sure to check it out.

(14) Lace Snowflakes

Who would have thought that Lace can look so much like a snowflake?  But, when put together the right way…. it really does.  AllFreeCrafts did a really great job coming up with this snowflake craft.   They simply added lace to wire to create this beautiful snowflake.  Now, that’s creative.

Technorati Tags: snowflake crafts, paper snowflakes, paper snowflake crafts, paper snowflake patterns, winter crafts, winter season crafts, crafts with snowflakes, winter snowflake crafts

Shana · Beads, Buttons, Card Stock, Cool Finds and Tips, Glitter, Paper, Parenting Articles, Q-tips, Recycle Greeting Cards, Window Hanging Crafts Ideas, Winter Crafts · 0 Comments

Did you know there are tons of crafts out there that you can make from Photographs?  There really are.  And, the cool thing about making crafts with Photographs is that you will have a keepsake for your memories for years to come.  Wouldn’t it be cool to take copies of your most precious pictures and make them into something useful?  For example, I found a craft that you can take your photographs and make wrapping paper or a tissue box…. or how about taking family photographs and making them into a Guess Who game.  Check out all of these crafts plus many more in this post. You are sure to find a Photograph craft you will enjoy to make.

Fun Crafts Made from Photographs

(1) Child’s Blocks

Aren’t these Child’s Blocks cute?  The craft is an easy one, but it turns out so adorable.  Imagine these being in your baby’s room… wouldn’t that be cute?  You can find out how to do this craft over at Parents.com.

(2) Bottle Cap Magnets & Thumbtacks

Here is another way to keep your memories close at hand.  MarthaStewart shows you how to take your favorite photographs and make them into bottlecap magnets you can put on the fridge or thumbtacks that you can post proudly at the office on your bulletin board.

(3) Homemade Wrapping Paper

Could you imagine handing a family member a gift wrapped in wrapping paper that has pictures of their little loved ones on there?  They would love the wrapping paper just as much as they will enjoy the gift inside.  You can find the “how-to” of this craft over at FamilyFun.

(4) Guess Who Game

Ok, I think this is my favorite Photograph craft of them all.  It is just so creative.  MadsMemories takes the characters of the classic Guess Who game and replaces those characters with photographs of members of the family.  Imagine playing that Guess Who game with the kids.

(5) Photo Puzzle Box

Here is a fun craft for you puzzle lovers.  How about taking one of your favorite family pictures and making it into a puzzle and putting them on blocks.  Take the picture puzzle and mess them all up…. can you put it back together again correctly?  You can find this craft over at PhotoJojo.

(6) Photo Placemat

Now here is a wonderful way to display your family photos that are sure to be seen at least 3 times a day…. make them into a Photo Placemat.  Not only will you enjoy sitting down to your meals and looking at this great way to display photos, but imagine how much your other family members would love receiving these placemats as a gift.  Check out Kaboose for the craft details.

(7) Tissue Box

This is a very cool craft…. and so much fun to not only put together, but display for all to see.  You can be creative and do only Winter Scenes on the tissue box, or funny pictures, or how about old pictures like the tissue box shown above.  Either way it is sure to be a conversation piece.  Check out the craft over at RightAtHome.

(8) Photo Stickers

I love this idea…. photo stickers.  These would be great to decorate party favors for birthday parties or graduations.  Well, really any festivity.    Here MarthaStewart shows you how to achieve this fun keepsake photo memory for yourself.

(9) Photo Bookmark

Now, this is a great way to save your photographs in a way that you can look at them many times a day…. make them into a bookmark to use with your favorite book.  This way you know you will be enjoying it.  The crafter at About uses their favorite animal photographs for their bookmark, but you can use your friends or family members for your bookmark if you wish.

(10) Paper Napkin Decoupage

Here is an interesting and creative way to display your pictures.  How about using napkin decoupage to transfer your pictures to a pot, plate or candle.  Not only does it turn out really cool…. but the craft itself is a ton of fun to make.  The instructions for this craft can be found at PhotoGiftGuide.com.

Technorati Tags: photo crafts, photograph crafts, picture crafts, crafts made from photographs, crafts made from photos, crafts made from pictures, memory crafts, keepsake crafts

Shana · Cool Finds and Tips, Keepsake Crafts Ideas, Parenting Articles, Pictures or Photographs · 1 Comment

While roaming the internet the other day I came across quite a few cool crafts made from old, worn out books….. 10 of them to be exact.  They were so cool I had to show them to you.  All of them have instructions so that you too can make these creative items.  From Wreaths to a Kindle Case you are going to be surprised in the things you can do with books to upcycle them…. I know I was.

10 Cool Crafts Made from Old, Worn Out Books

(1) Rose Wreath

Look how beautiful this wreath is!!  It is just incredible.  And, the cool thing is that if you check out ByStephanieLynn you will see that the instructions on how to make this book wreath isn’t that complicated at all.  And, it sounds like so much fun.

(2) Kindle Case

Look how creative this craft is…. so creative.  Here is a great way to hold and protect your Kindle…. and it is inexpensive.  I found this craft over at SuddenlyFound and she will show you how you can have this Kindle case made from a book too.

(3) Book Page Fabric

This book craft is pretty interesting.  Turn book pages into pieces of fabric.  DesignSponge turned book pages into a writing pad, a tiny notebook and a cleanable writing pad for under the computer.  Make sure to check out her site so you can see all the pictures of all she made.

(4) Secret Storage Areas

This craft always reminds me of something from a Spy Movie.  This is so cool…. what child wouldn’t love a secret hiding space?  And, what better way to do this than in a book.  Education.com shows you how to do this.

(5) Book Purse

Isn’t this book purse an original idea?  It really is.  And, I can totally assume that you would be the only one carrying around a purse like this.  If you are wondering how to make this purse go check out Curbly for all the details.

(6) Book Vase

Check out these beautiful vases made from books.  Aren’t they so cool?!  And, they aren’t that difficult to make either.  You can find out the step-by-step “how-to” over at CountryLiving.  Just skip over to slide 8 to see this particular craft.

(7) Book Table

Here is a table constructed out of books.  Looking at this I would wonder how stable this desk could possibly be.  But, if you check out the original post over at Instructables they explain how if constructed correctly this table is quite stable.  Check it out for the full how-to.

(8) Book Page Wreath

Here is another Book Wreath that I loved so much I had to include in this post.  This particular book page wreath was done by LivingWithLindsay and she explains beautifully how to make this wreath for yourself.

(9) Book Clock

This clock is absolutely adorable and would work out perfectly in any child’s room.  I found this book craft over at DesignDazzle and it’s a fun craft.  She has the complete tutorial over there, so make sure to check out her site.

(10) Book Picture Frame

Here is a cool way to present those photographs for all to see.  How about use an old book with an interesting cover and recycle it this way.  WikiHow shows you how to do this beautifully with a step-by-step tutorial.

Technorati Tags: books, recycled books, how to recycle books, book crafts, recycled book crafts, crafts made from recycled books, upcycle, upcycle books, upcycled books

Shana · book making crafts, Cool Finds and Tips, Green Environmental Crafts, Parenting Articles, Recycling and Upcycling Crafts · 0 Comments

I was roaming the internet recently and came across some crafts I just had to show you.  I found 14 totally fun and amazing crafts that are made from tights.  These crafts are a great way to recycle the tights that your kids have grown out of.  I know how quickly my kids grow out of their tights.  Well, instead of throwing them away… these crafts are an awesome way to reuse them.  Plus, these crafts are so much fun.  So, round up those old tights and let’s have some crafting fun.

14 Fun Crafts made from Tights

(1) Butterfly Fairy Wings

When my daughter was younger she would have loved this Butterfly Fairy Wing craft.  I found this craft over at FunInTheMaking.net and it’s a fun one.  Go check the craft out and have fun making it with your little girl.

(2) Sleepy Snake

Now, here is a fun craft to do with your little one.  FreeKidsCrafts shows you how to take a gray pair of tights and turn it into this adorable sleepy snake.  It’s a fun and easy craft you can do with your youngest of crafters.

(3) Necklace

Yep…. this necklace is actually made from old tights.  Look how beautiful the necklace is too…  it really is lovely.  I found this craft over at Smaggle and I absolutely love it.  This isn’t an easy craft so you will need to help your kids a bit.

(4) Fingerless Gloves

I don’t know about your little girl, but my daughter loves fingerless gloves.  She loves wearing them around the house…. they really are quite the fashion statement.  At any rate, WikiHow shows you how to take a pair of tights and make them into fingerless gloves easily.

(5) Baby Headbands

If you have a baby girl you know that you can never have enough of those soft baby headbands.  Well, UCreate shows you how to make these beautiful baby girl headbands from tights step-by-step.

(6) Sausage Dog

Isn’t this sausage dog cute?  You would have no idea that it is not a stuffed animal, but actually something to help keep the draft out.  Keep this Sausage Dog by your front or back door to keep the cold air out.  TheGuardian shows you this craft tutorial.

(7) Flowers

Here is a fun craft for the girls.  KeepItSimpleSister shows you how to make these beautiful flowers from your tights.  Notice how the flowers turn out so beautifully that they show the flowers being worn on the lapel of a shirt or jacket.  Simply lovely.

(8) Critters That Keep Out the Cold

Earlier in this post I showed you a Sausage Dog that keeps drafts out.  Well, now I’m going to show you a snake that has the ability to do the same thing.  FamilyFun shows you how to make many critters that do this same thing.  The real challenge is figuring out which critter you are going to make.

(9) Pantyhose Petals

Here is a beautiful flower corsage that anyone would be thrilled wearing.  Craftzine explains how this flower craft can be use to dress-up any veil, corsage or centerpiece.  So, you really aren’t very limited with this craft…. and it turns out beautifully.

(10) Octopus Toy

Check out how cute this Octopus toy is!!  It is so adorable….. any child would love playing and cuddling with it.  And, the truly awesome part is it is a craft made from tights.  RedTedArt shows you how to make this plush toy step-by-step…. so make sure to check it out.

(11) Scarf

Here is one of those fun and useful crafts that turn out so beautifully that you are left wondering if you should keep it for yourself or give it as a gift.  ObstinatePursuit shows nicely how you too can make this scarf.

(12) Rapunzel Hair

If your little girl is in to Rapunzel even a little bit…. then this is the tight craft for you.  TheWeekendHomemaker shows you how to make this Rapunzel Hair Wig for yourself.  Your little girl will love wearing it while watching the movie.

(13) Old Fashioned Snowman

Here is an awesome craft for the entire Winter Season.  Craftbits shows you step-by-step how to make this fabulous snowman.  No one will know that one of the materials needed are tights…. well, unless you tell them of course.  It’s so cute!!

(14) A Cute Caterpillar

I love this cute Caterpillar.  It just might be my favorite Tights Craft out of them all.  Made from tights and Styrofoam balls…. this craft is just so adorable.  Get the step-by-step how-to’s over at Crafts’nCoffee.

Technorati Tags: tights, crafts from tights, crafts made from tights, tights crafts, tights crafts for kids, crafts made from stockings, stocking crafts, pantyhose crafts, crafts from pantyhose, hosiery crafts

Shana · Animal Crafts Ideas, Cool Finds and Tips, Stockings and Tights · 4 Comments

New Years is just days away.  And, with New Years comes the celebrating when the ball drops and it is officially the next year.  What is the one thing that it seems everyone does when the ball drops?…. Makes noise and screams, “Happy New Year!!!”   So, today is all about the noise making.  I’m going to show you 10 crafty ways to make New Years noisemakers.  Each of the items have step-by-step tutorials on how to make the noisemakers.  With 10 choices you are sure to find the noisemaker perfect for you.  So, without further ado….

Crafty Ways to Make New Years Noisemakers

(1) Sparkly Firecracker Noisemaker

Made from a toilet paper tube and some glitter glue this beautiful noisemaker is quite easy to make…. but sure to be a lot of fun.  Kaboose shows you how to make this firecracker noisemaker for yourself.

(2) Noisemaker Shakers

Believe it or not….. these adorable noisemakers are made from empty ribbon spools.  Simply fill the ribbon spools with dried beans or something noisy and you are good to go.  Get the specifics of this noisemaker craft over at Family Fun.

(3) Paper Bowl Noisemaker

Here is a noisemaker craft that promises to be a lot of fun.  Made from paper bowls, beads and some other fun stuff…. it will surely be a fun noisemaker.  You can find the step-by-step tutorial over at Education.com.

(4) Vintage Noisemaker

This noisemaker craft is for the older children and the adults.  The step-by-step tutorial is a little more complicated than the other noisemaker crafts, but this one is sure to turn out beautifully…. and make lots of noise.  You can get the how-to over at Vintage Image Craft.

(5) Paper Plate Noisemaker

Here is an awesome looking Noisemaker…. and it is sure to be a lot of fun to make.  I love the jewels on top of the paper plate.  I think the decorating will be almost as much fun as the actual noise making will be.  Find out how to make this noisemaker at Kaboose.

(6) Paper Roll Noisemaker

Here is a noisemaker craft for the youngest of crafters.  You simply need some paper towel rolls, wax paper and items to decorate.  What’s nice is you probably have all the materials you need for this craft at home.  Find out exactly how to make these at MakeAndTakes.

(7) Paper Plate Tambourine

Look how beautiful this noisemaker is when finished.  I love the little jingle bells.  You can decorate your paper plates any way you want to.  I imagine a lot of glitter glue on mine.  You can find the tutorial over at First Palette.

(8) Water Bottle Noisemakers

Here is a great way to reuse those water bottles you used.  Fill them with beans, rice or something noisy…. decorate the bottles and you are all ready for New Years Eve.  Find out the exact how-to over at Lucky Me.

(9) Raisin Box Noisemakers

Look how festive these New Years Noisemakers are!!  I love the colorful stickers along with the jingle bell.  You simply fill the raisin boxes with something noisy, cover the boxes, add a stick and decorate.  Do you know how you would decorate yours?  Check out Alpha Mom for the full directions.

(10) Paper Towel Roll Noisemaker

Here is a simple craft, but promises to be a lot of fun.  Made simply from a paper towel roll and cardstock.  You are probably wondering where the noise comes from since you don’t fill it with any noisy items….. the noise comes from shaking the paper towel roll back and forth.  The paper makes noise by banging into one another.  Get the full directions over at Love To Know Crafts.

And, there you have it…. 10 different crafty ways to make New Years Noisemakers.  Do you know which one you are going to make?  Or, do you have a noisemaker craft of your own?  Let me know in the comments below.

Technorati Tags: New Years, New Years Eve, New Years Crafts, New Years Eve Crafts, Noisemakers, Noisemaker crafts, New Years Noisemakers, New Years Eve Noisemakers, New Years Noisemakers crafts, New Years Eve Noisemakers Crafts

Shana · Cool Finds and Tips, Holiday Crafts for Kids, New Years Crafts, Parenting Articles · 2 Comments

Christmas has come and gone.  And, with Christmas comes the mountains of used wrapping paper from all those gifts you received.  Most of the time we land up throwing it away…. we don’t even think twice about throwing it away.  Or, how about all those Holiday Greeting Cards you received this year….. what do you land up doing with them once the Holiday is over?  Throw them away, right?  Well today I’m going to show you crafty ways to reuse these items.    From Christmas decorations for next year to decorative gift boxes there are plenty ideas for reusing your wrapping paper & greeting cards.  You are sure to find an idea for yours.  So, without further ado….

Crafty Ways to Reuse Wrapping Paper & Greeting Cards

(1) Wrapping Paper Wreath

Here is a great way to reuse your wrapping paper.  Take your wrapping paper and make it into a festive Holiday wreath.  Check out Instructables for the How-to.

(2)  Iron the Wrapping Paper

If the receiver of the gift was careful and the wrapping paper isn’t torn too bad you could actually reuse it.  But, you may be wondering what to do about all those wrinkles…. no worries.  Martha Stewart tells you to iron it on low heat and reuse it.

(3) Gift Card Ornaments

Here is a fantastic idea to transform all those Holiday Greeting Cards into some beautiful Christmas Ornaments for next year.  Look how beautiful they turn out.  Junk Mail Gems shows you step-by-step how to make these beautiful Christmas Ornaments for yourself.

(4) Decorative Bowls

Here’s a great craft for the kids.  Take the old wrapping paper…. shred it up…. and make it into decorative bowls.  Instructables shows you step-by-step how to do this.  The kids will love showing off the bowl they made themselves.

(5) Holiday Tins

Here is another great way to reuse that Holiday Wrapping Paper…..decorate tins with the wrapping paper and make them into beautiful Holiday Tins.  CraftStylish shows you step-by-step how to achieve this.

(6) Gift Boxes

You know what I never have enough of???…   Gift Boxes.  I’m always buying gift boxes for my gifts every Holiday Season.  Well, no more.  There is no longer a need because CraftyPod shows us how to make our very own gift boxes from Greeting Cards.  They come out looking perfectly festive.

(7) Wrapping Paper Collage

Here is a great craft for the kids…. and it uses Wrapping Paper scraps.  It is a perfect way to use up those little pieces of wrapping paper that you would normally throw away.  KinderArt shows you how to do this with your kids…. they will have so much fun.

(8) Serving Tray Liner

Here is a beautiful way to reuse your Holiday wrapping paper.  Simply iron it on low heat and then place it in one of your serving trays.  You will have a wonderfully festive Holiday serving tray for your New Years Party.  Martha Stewart shows you how to achieve this.

(9) Christmas Card Basket

Here is a creative way to use up all those Holiday greeting cards you have from this year.  Instead of throwing them away why not make this adorable Christmas Card Basket that you can use next Holiday Season.  Made from Christmas Cards and yarn you and your children will have so much fun making it.  Check out AllFreeCrafts for the tutorial.

And, there you have it…. 9 crafty ways to reuse your Holiday wrapping paper & greeting cards this Holiday Season.  Do you have some other ways to reuse wrapping paper and greeting cards?  Let me know in the comments below.  I would love to hear them.

Top image by tillwe

Technorati Tags: gift wrap, reuse gift wrap, reuse greeting cards, reuse wrapping paper, green, Holiday gift wrap, Hanukkah gift wrap, green christmas, green holiday, green Hanukkah, recycle wrapping paper, recycle greeting cards

Shana · Christmas Crafts, Cool Finds and Tips, Decorating and Design, Green Environmental Crafts, Holiday Crafts for Kids, Parenting Articles, Recycle Greeting Cards, Recycling and Upcycling Crafts · 0 Comments

I was roaming the internet today for Christmas Trees and I couldn’t believe the creativity I saw.  I just had to share with you what I found.  I found 9 Christmas Trees that are the most unique and creative out there.  There is one totally made from library books and another that is made completely from soda cans. I will share with you those and the ones in between.  So, without further ado…..

Outrageous Christmas Trees

(1) Pacman Christmas Tree

I would have loved to see this in person.  I’m sure it was incredible.  It is fully animated with thousands of LED lights.  Check out Technabob to get all the fun facts about this tree.

(2) Mountain Dew Christmas Tree

I love, love, love Mountain Dew…. so for me this tree is pure perfection.  I found this tree over at MDewTree.com and they explain that it took only 4 days to produce this Christmas tree, but took 3 months of drinking Mountain Dew.  Nice!!

(3) Ladder Christmas Tree

Who would have thought how beautiful a ladder can be.  But, as you can see…. this Ladder Christmas Tree is quite beautiful.  I found this Christmas Tree over at BeDifferentActNormal and I love the creativity.

(4) Origami Christmas Tree

Isn’t this Christmas Tree spectacular?  I really think so.  I love the crispness of the paper…. It really is amazing.  You could actually purchase this Origami Christmas Tree over at Paper Productions.

(5) Shelf Christmas Tree

I absolutely love this creativity.  This might be my favorite out of all of them.  I dig how they stack the books just perfectly to create the image of a Christmas Tree.  You can check it out for yourself over at Swiss Miss.

(6) Library Books Christmas Tree

This Christmas Tree was made from green reference books at a University Library in Aalborg.  They stacked the books just perfectly to create a unique Christmas Tree.  I wonder how long this Christmas Tree took to put together.  Check it our for yourself.

(7) Glowing Christmas Tree

The above tree is pretty awesome.  Made from the bottom of green soda containers they erected this huge tree.  Talk about going green…. they certainly did with this tree.  The lights are in the inside of the tree so it glows at night.

(8) Sheet Music Christmas Tree

Ok, how unique are these trees?  So unique.  They are amazing.  You can make this Christmas Tree too.  Check out HGTV…. they have the “how-to” to create these Christmas Trees as well.

(9) Cannoli Christmas Trees

How about a delicious Christmas Tree?  There is nothing wrong with that.  I found this Cannoli Christmas Tree over at Kitchen Simplicity and it looks YUMMY!!  They have the recipe over there so go check it out.

And, there you have it…. 9 of the most outrageous and creative Christmas Trees I found while surfing the net.  Do you know of any interesting Christmas Trees?  Let me know in the comments below.

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Shana · Christmas Crafts, Cool Finds and Tips, Decorating and Design, Holiday Crafts for Kids, Parenting Articles · 0 Comments

I was roaming the internet this morning and came across some of the most creative ideas to wrap your gifts.  If you are like me you wrap all your gifts basically the same.  Maybe you add a different color bow here and there…. but basically the gifts look the same.  Well, that can all change now.  I found 7 Unique Ways to Wrap a Gift…. and they are unique.   She tells you how even a basic coffee filter can change an ordinary gift to a  fantastic one.  Or, how about not wrapping a gift at all and just use decorative tape to tape the box creatively.  Want more?  She has it…. how about getting clothespins and doilys from the Dollar Store and jazz up your gifts to the next level.  I told you…. these give wrapping techniques are fabulous.  And, she has more…. so make sure to check it out.

Do you have some creative ideas to wrap your gifts?  Please let me know in the comments below.

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Shana · Christmas Crafts, Cool Finds and Tips, Holiday Crafts for Kids, Parenting Articles · 0 Comments

When I was a child I hated sitting at the Thanksgiving Kids’ Table.  I always felt I was missing what was going on at the adult’s table.  Well, I found some ideas around the internet that would change any child’s idea of the yucky kids’ table.  Any child would love to sit at any of these crafty and creative Kids’ Tables.  I am sure you can get some ideas from these for your own kid’s table.  Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know if you tried any of these ideas or if you came up with your own.  Take a picture of your kids’ table and leave it in the comments so I can check it out.

Ideas for Crafty & Creative Thanksgiving Kids’ Tables

(1) TOTS TURKEY TABLE

Party Blueprints Blog went over and above for this Thanksgiving Kids’ Table.  I love everything about it… just like any child would.  Party Blueprints Blog explains how to do this yourself…. so make sure to check it out.

(2) Finger Puppet Favors

Kid’s love finger puppets…. as I’m sure they will love this Thanksgiving Kids’ Table.  I can almost imagine the finger puppet shows the kids will be putting on while they are eating their Thanksgiving meal.  Martha Stewart shows you how you too can have this Kids’ Table.

(3) Color Little Hands

I found this brilliant idea over at NoFussFabulous and I had to show you.  She covers the table with butcher paper, so that the kids can use the crayons that are on the table to draw on the table.  She also gives each of the kids a tiny pumpkin to decorate.  But, my favorite idea is the centerpiece.  It’s a tree with hand prints of each of the kids and they write what they are thankful for on the leaves.  Keep the tree for years to come.

(4) Feathered Headdress Place Markers

My son would love this Thanksgiving Kids’ Table.  He loves any kind of hat and he would surely adore these feathered headdresses…. any child would.  I found this idea over at HGTV and it’s a great one… make sure to check it out.

(5) Thanksgiving Ship

Check out this Thanksgiving Kids’ Table….. isn’t it beautifully colorful?!  I just love it.  And, look at all the kids have to do at this table.  Shindig Parties to Go shows you how to put this together too.  I love that she has activities for each child to do.  No bored kids here.

(6) I am Grateful For…. Table

It is a great idea to remind children what Thanksgiving is all about…. what Thanksgiving represents.  Betty Crocker shows you how to do this with a little worksheet for the children.  She has you put it at each of the children’s spots so that they can list what they are thankful for.

(7) Markers and Stickers Thanksgiving

Happy Home Fairy knows what kids love….. Markers and Stickers.  She makes sure to have lots of markers and stickers at the kids’ Thanksgiving table.  She covers the entire table in butcher paper and let the kids do whatever they wish.  Kids will love this idea!!

(8) Special Place for Kids

What a beautiful little Thanksgiving table…. perfect for children.  Southern Living shows you how to replicate this table.  She tells you to Write a “to-do” list next to each spot, so that children can check them off as they do all the Thanksgiving activities.  This way there is no way they will forget to do all the Thanksgiving activities.

(9) Printable Thanksgiving Kids’ Table

I found this idea over at Lily’s Laundry.  She makes sure there are plenty of markers, beads, string and glue at the table so that the kids can start creating once they have sat down at the table.  You can print off the colorful decorations for free at Lily’s Laundry, so make sure to check it out.

(10) Pilgrim Kids’ Table

Here’s a cute Thanksgiving Kids’ Table…. I love the turkey leg.  Each pie is filled with treats for each of the kids.  I found this idea over at Fiskars.  She made this Thanksgiving Kids’ Table to occupy the kids while everyone was working in the kitchen or watching football.  The table keeps the children entertained.

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Shana · Cool Finds and Tips, Decorating and Design, Parenting Articles, Table Decorations Crafts, Thanksgiving Crafts · 0 Comments