Crafts and DIY

Get the inside scoop on all the little known tricks of the trade for increasing sales and building repeat business. How to design and work a booth that rocks!

Recycled thick Woolen Jumpers are used to create hanging basket liners. Follow these simple steps to create a hanging garden of your own. Fill it with herbs or flowers to create a riot of color.

Unbiased reviews of metal clay related products including the Ultra-Lite Beehive Kiln and custom name/logo stamps by Metal Clay Artist Magazine's senior editor and technical editor Margaret Schindel.

Thanksgiving turkey crafts for kids, toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners, and adults.

What can you do with old book pages? Browse these fun project ideas and get inspired to make crafts such as garlands, flowers, trees, and more!

An introduction to silver and gold precious metal clay and a guide to recommended metal clay artists, teachers, organizations and projects suitable for metal clay beginners. Education and inspiration.

Tips for keeping metal clay moist during work sessions and for shot-term and long-term storage.

Hot process soap making is one of the ways to make all-natural soap at home. But can you make the soap really, really pretty? What can you add to it to make it more interesting? Here's an account of some of my recent adventures in hot process soap making. You should be able to learn something, too!

Necklaces made with many strands of beads may seem complicated, but are quite easy to make! This step-by-step tutorial will show you how to design and create your own beautiful beaded necklace.

A tutorial on building a charcoal blacksmith forge from an old propane grill. We will make a simple pipe tuyere forge from a discarded grill, a metal fence post, and a few inexpensive materials.

Have you ever thought of metal as your canvass? Probably not. But it is, and it's easier to create designs in metal than you think. Acid etching copper and brass yields endless possibilities with impressive results. The materials needed are fairly inexpensive, and you may already have some of them at home. Acid etching metals allows you to create beautiful designs in relief. If you can stamp it, draw it, or write it, you can etch it!

A comprehensive guide on gemstone setting techniques in metal clay before and after firing. Learn which stones are safe to fire in place and how to set them in fresh, dried or fired metal clay.

If you've decided that you want to make a business out of your beaded jewelry hobby and want to know how much you can get for your work, I can help you!

Ornament wreaths are popular for the Christmas season, but can be a hassle to make. This tutorial creates a festive wreath that is easy to construct, uses less ornaments, and will shine in your home.

How to make silver, bronze or copper clay oil paste using plant-based essential oil or Sherri Haab Pastemaker and how to use it for strong joins in metal clay. Includes full lavender paste recipe.

Step-by-step instructions on how to make rusting plates, for making rusted papers and fabrics.

Learn how to make a beautiful beaded eyeglass leash that also can be worn as a necklace. This jewelry tutorial has detailed step-by-step instructions with close-up photos to ensure successful results.

Learn the best way to rehydrate / reconstitute partly dry or fully dried metal clay with water to bring it back to a moist, pliable consistency.

Learn how to custom paint leather shoes, boots or sandals successfully with acrylic paint and then how to trim and embellish them with rhinestones, faux gems, sequins and other fashion accents

Transform your yard into a creepy Halloween graveyard with fake tombstones and clever epitaphs. Here are ideas for funny R.I.P. names and spooky tombstone sayings, plus easy instructions for making your own tombstones.

Add a touch of homespun whimsy to your holidays with these recycled denim ornaments. They are easy to make using this tutorial that includes step by step instructions and photos.

Learn about gold and silver metal clay formulas from Art Clay and PMC brands plus Aura 22 and AGS (Accent Gold for Silver and the key characteristics and best uses of each formula from those brands.

Try out these DIY burlap craft ideas! You'll be inspired to make flowers, garlands, wreaths, ornaments, and wall art. Keep these projects in mind for any upcoming holidays, seasons, weddings, or events.

Directions and instructions for a kids woodworking project; a toolbox as a gift for Dad

How to adapt Liz Ardlady's famous shampoo bar recipe to make liquid shampoo.

Learn how to do this centuries-old craft using pine needles gathered from the forest floor.

Learn how to make glass magnets and professional packaging for them. This article includes supply lists and step by step directions with photos.

A collection of vintage-inspired jewelry making techniques including collage or assemblage jewelry, working with brass filigree, cagework or tapestry beading, memory wire bracelets, and patina.

A step-by-step guide on how you can make a profit selling your artwork on ebay as a self-representing artist.

An introduction to bronze clay, differences in firing schedules and methods compared to silver metal clay, and an overview of major bronze metal clay brands, formulas and jewelry making techniques.

Creative home or party Valentine decorations, gifts, and crafts for pretty much anyone you know!

This tutorial will show you how to use permanent markers and rubbing alcohol to make your own alcohol inks for your scrapbooking and craft projects. I think you will be very happy with the finished product and with the amount of money you can save making your own inks.

The ability to add a deep, rich patina is an important tool in any metalsmith's arsenal. Discover how with liver of sulfur, an inexpensive and effective way to patina copper and brass.

Learn how to make simple homemade musical instruments such as: drums, flutes, clickers, shakers, sistrum, harmonica, tambourine, ankle bells, cymbals, bongo, guitar, and maracas.

I've seen pictures in random shapes since I was a very little girl. It was fun to look at the clouds and find a bunny or a butterfly. I think we've all played this game. Recently I noticed shapes that a wet tea bag left on paper. I've traced the shapes and made amazing pictures out of them.

Native American art and craft ideas for kids and adults. Projects include: headbands, moccasins, masks, drums, dream catchers, medicine bags, and more.

Not sure what to do with all of those seashells you brought home from the beach? Learn how to make these fun and flirty seashell earrings. They are easy to make with this step-by-step jewelry making tutorial.

Do you have extra buttons around the house that you want to use? Try these fun button project ideas that are perfect for both kids and adults!

Fabric wrapped cord jewelry adds a fun and funky touch to any wardrobe. It's also quick and easy to make with this step by step tutorial, including photos and a video.

Your friends will never guess that this fun and colorful bib necklace is handmade with paper beads, created from recycled mail, maps, and magazines.

Super easy, quick, simple, inexpensive, spooky, and cool Halloween craft ideas. Find ideas for kids, teens and adults: Halloween decorations to make, to gift and to sell.

How to make a mosaic table top with ceramic tiles for outdoors in your garden. What are the best mosaic techniques for beginners. How do I grout a mosaic? Ceramic Tiles make an awesome garden table.

53 easy and useful DIY craft ideas recycling old denim jeans.

Fall crafts are those that can be displayed from August to the end of November. In this article find unique and easy-to-do Fall crafts that will make your decorating a breeze. Fall craft ideas for inside and outdoors.

Wedding and bridal shower craft ideas. Handmade wedding and shower craft projects to make include decorations, favors, centerpieces, bridal bouquets, veils, headbands, invitations, place cards

Adorable Easter bunny crafts using paper, cotton balls, paper plates, paper bags, burlap, tp rolls, wash cloth. Easy bunny craft ideas to make

Teacher gift ideas. Creative, homemade teacher appreciation gifts. Teacher gifts for kids to make. Teachers: high school, elementary, preschool, Sunday. Handmade gift ideas for teachers. Inexpensive.

These colorful handmade jars make wonderful gifts, party favors, or table decorations for a variety of occasions and events. Easy to make, they are also a great way to repurpose and recycle old jars!

Professional framing can be expensive, especially if you want to frame a piece of art on a stretched canvas. However, you can easily frame an artist canvas yourself using wood lattice and a few tools.

DIY plans with photos and step-by-step instructions for making a Butterfly House. Our version of the butterfly box is made from pieces of salvaged mahogany.

Learn how to make simple, natural, authentic soap at home, using ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Soap making does not have to be a costly hobby - in fact, you may find that it's ultimately cheaper than buying soap!

The best Halloween arts and crafts for kids, preschoolers, toddlers and adults. Halloween art and craft ideas to make spiders, witches, ghosts and bats. Fun and easy art and craft ideas for Halloween

Make your own I Spy bottle with these easy to follow instructions and photos. They provide hours of fascination.

With just a few supplies and time, you too can turn common potatoes into beautiful jewelry. Find out how in this easy to follow tutorial.

Learn how to weave flexible metal clay sheet or paper to make woven metal jewelry. This illustrated step-by-step weaving tutorial demonstrates a simple method with helpful illustrations.

Do you want to try bringing new life to old calendar pages? Find over 30 fun craft ideas below that are great for kids and adults alike. Make bows, stars, gift bags, ornaments, and more!

The fascinating tale of a masked genius. These are three DIY ways to make Phantom of the Opera themed bookmarks. Include these crafts in the pages of your favorite novel.

This article is about how to price homemade craft items. It includes the most commonly used formulas for baseline, retail, and wholesale pricing as well as advice on everything from comparing the prices of similar items to the advantages of buying wholesale supplies.

Learn how to texture metal clay with carving, tear-away textures, photopolymer plates, household items, leaves, food, purchased and homemade mats, molds and tools in this comprehensive guide.

Make beautiful crafts using seashells and sea glass. You can try these project ideas for kids' activities or adult crafts!

Information on factors that should be taken into account when designing jewellery for sale or for yourself, friends and family.

Layered necklaces with multiple chains and charms are a popular fashion trend. These necklaces are surprisingly easy to make with the right tools and supplies. Learn how to make your own boho-style necklace with this tutorial!

Information about five types of wood glue: polyvinyl acetate, polyurethane, cyanoacrylate, hide, and epoxy. Learn the strengths and weaknesses of each and what projects they are better for.

A detailed list of basic, nice-to-have and specialty materials, tools, supplies and equipment for working with metal clay. Learn how to build a metal clay toolkit or see what's missing from your kit.

Step-by-step instructions (with photos) on how to make reusable creepy bloody window decorations with dirt cheap materials you can buy at the grocery store.

A great way to use old newspapers is to craft with them. In this article, you'll find ideas, pictures and links to great tutorials. There are some easy and fun crafts for kids too.

Jazz up your sofa and save an old pair of jeans from the landfill by making this adorable denim throw pillow cover. Easy step by step instructions and photos are provided.

This easy Christmas card tutorial requires no special equipment or cutting machines. All you need to make this cheery holiday card is a pair of scissors, some basic materials, and the included poinsettia template. This holiday design can also be used to create gift tags or Christmas decorations.

Whether you are a lifelong crafter or are just starting out, you should always have these 20 craft supplies/tools on hand.

Step by step instructions and photos are provided in this easy tissue paper suncatcher craft tutorial. It's perfect for kids of all ages.

Mason, canning, or glass jars... they can all be used to make crafts. Ideas for kids and adults. Recycled and upcycled Christmas crafts, centerpieces, wedding décor, gifts, and more.

If you want a bench that is timely, extremely strong, and is built using old time joinery with a traditional looking finish, look no farther!

Learn to make clay, paper, plastic, and glass beads. I include supplies, techniques, tutorials, and resources for paper, polymer clay, plastic, ceramic, beaded, fused glass, and lampwork glass.

Decorative scissors add a finishing touch to all your paper crafts. From scrapbooking to making paper flowers to cards, you will find lots of uses for decorative scissors. Learn more.

What are the most popular themes which sell art? Which subjects sell the most art? Do you know? Are these questions important to an artist?

Easy craft projects for boy scout camps and for boys to make and sell. Simple, fun and easy crafts that boys will enjoy. Craft projects especially for boys to make.

Learn how to start a handmade card business below! I've also included a few tips to help you set it up for success.

An easy recipe and simple technique for making shaving soap that is healing and luxurious to the skin - and still "manly" enough that he will use it and enjoy it!

A simple quilting extension table made with parts from Home Depot, completed in less than an hour, and with minimal material costing ~$20. Has adjustable legs and can be readily modified to a number of sewing machines.

A comprehensive guide to working with Metal Adventures' original BRONZclay brand bronze metal clay. Includes techniques and tips for working with this clay, firing schedules, troubleshooting and more.

This article is about how to start and maintain successful blogs for craft businesses. It includes blogging platform information as well as ideas for blog posts, features, and topics.

A step-by-step tutorial for making colorful polymer clay fantasy flower jewelry. Wear these bright spring or summer blooms all year long or give them as inexpensive handmade gifts for women or girls.

Your honeymoon, a road trip, and family vacations: these are special journeys in our lives. A great way to commemorate such an event is to compile an album that celebrates the highlights. The great news is that it won't cost the price of a castle.

Make a simple boomerang paper airplane. Flight-test three different designs for boomerang paper planes.

Give mom a handmade gift for Mother's Day or her birthday. Moms always appreciate something that you made yourself!

An overview of the five forms of commercial metal clay products - lump clay, metal clay powder, slip or paste, syringe, and metal clay paper - and the characteristics and uses of each form.

Unleash your creativity by creating a funky, fantastical paper mache statue. I'll show you how to gather inspiration, sketch your idea and build an armature that will be the frame for your creation.

DIY plans with step-by-step instructions to build three different and unique birdhouses

Metal clay must be dry before firing to avoid steam that causes bubbles in the metal. Learn how to dry metal clay using foam, Teflon, a hotplate / cup warmer, dehydrator, hair dryer and other methods.

DIY plans for building a screech owl nesting box. This article includes diagrams, photos and step-by-step instructions for building and hanging a owl house.

In this article, I will share with you three different ways to build a silk-screen printing station.

Great outdoor, nature and camping crafts for kids and adults. Plan adventure, birthday or camping themed parties with these backyard camping craft ideas and activities.

This step-by-step tutorial with photos and text instructions shows you how to turn a few bills of any dollar denomination into a pretty flower that makes money fun to give as a gift for any occasion.

Learn how to make a grapevine basket that's easy for beginners and fun for advanced basket makers!

A step-by-step guide (with pictures) to making a paper crane. This tutorial includes the history of origami and origami cranes!

Learn how saltwater, crayons, electricity, a hair dryer, and a bit of creativity can be used to etch a candy tin with the step-by-step text instructions and photos in this craft tutorial.

Plastic bottle crafts for kids, preschoolers and adults. Craft project ideas using water and liter bottles. How to make crafts using plastic bottles. Recycle ideas for children. Make flowers, jewelry.

Using rolled paper, create colorful quilt blocks that are beautiful to look at but require no sewing! This project is a great way to recycle magazines, catalogs, and gift wrap. Fun for kids, too!

Check out these DIY ideas on how to make pop-up greeting cards for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s, or Father’s Day. This article includes pop-up card ideas, tutorials, and templates.

Storing beads and jewelry findings is a challenge for everyone who makes beaded jewelry. Here are a variety of recommended bead storage solutions and cases for storing jewelry findings successfully.