Latest from Goodto in Craft

How to make paper mache

esme.clemo@ti-media.com (Esme Clemo) — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 05:32:41 +0000

On a wet day, knowing how to make paper mache at home can be a fun way to keep the kids entertained.

All you need is a simple paper mache recipe, which we provide below, along with a straightforward step-by-step guide to creating paper mache crafts. As crafts go it really is a surprisingly easy craft to do with kids, so if you're struggling to think of things to do with children, this one's a winner. All you need is;

Newspaper strips
Plain flour & salt
Water
Emulsion paint & paintbrush
Vaseline

"Paper mache is a fun art activity for children and a mindful journey, a calming escape in an era of digital distractions." Jéssica Dorantes, Educational Expert at toucanBox tells us. Follow our easy instructions below on how to make simple paper mache using basic household materials, listed below, that you likely already have on hand.

How to make paper mache

Tear the sheets of newspaper into strips of about 3 inches long and then put to one side.
Cover the strips of paper with the glue or homemade glue paste (recipe below), on both sides with a paintbrush - it's best to do this on a flat and covered surface, turning them over with the paintbrush as you go.
Using your fingers, place your glue-soaked strips one at a time over the object you're covering and smooth down with your brush to release air bubbles. Repeat this process three times to really layer it up.

Leave to dry. Then, when it is completely dried out, you can gradually build up more layers to get to the required strength and thickness of the mache.
When it is all completely dry - this may take overnight - paint with two coats of emulsion paint to seal it. When it's dry you can paint it your desired colour.

How to make paper mache paste

In a bowl and mix one part sieved flour with one part of water (eg, 1 cup flour and 1 cup water, or 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup water) until you get a thick glue-like consistency.

If you think it's too thick just add a bit more water a teaspoon at a time. Mix well with a wooden spoon to get rid of all the bumps. Finally, add a few tablespoons of salt to help prevent mould.

Top tip

If you're using an object like a bowl to create a certain shape, be sure to smear the half that you're applying the strips to with a very light layer of vaseline, this makes it a lot easier to remove once the paper mache has dried. Though you could always use a balloon, then burst it to remove.

What are the benefits of paper mache for kids?

Crafting paper mache helps your children boost their creativity and imagination. With this craft, they can make anything they can possibly dream of, from surreal shapes to specific objects.

Jessica tells us; "we [at toucanBox] believe in the transformative power of hands-on art like paper mache — it doesn't just spark creativity, it nurtures essential life skills that every child should embrace."

She adds; "Beyond relaxation, the process of tearing, layering, and moulding paper not only helps children to develop fine motor skills but also fosters their imagination and creativity. It hones hand-eye coordination and develops perseverance as kids layer and shape their visions into tangible forms."

They'll feel a great sense of achievement once their creations harden and are ready to decorate. Another benefit of paper mache is that your child will need to follow a set of instructions, first in making the gloopy mixture, then in manipulating it to make shapes. This helps them to understand the concept of taking the right steps in the right order. They'll also develop patience as the paper mache dries out.

Once you've successfully made your own paper mache, maybe try making your own calm down jar or learn How to tie dye t-shirts and even How to make coasters from scrabble tiles.

Halloween painted pumpkins

Grace Walsh — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Looking for fun painted pumpkin ideas for Halloween? These are some of the best ones we've seen this autumn so far, from simple glitter-dashed squashes to Harry Potter-inspired pumpkins.

Painted pumpkins are one of the easiest Halloween crafts for kids to do before spooky season really starts. Not only will they be a delight in the window of your home for trick-or-treaters but they help everyone get into the seasonal spirit of celebrating Halloween and can even be used as part of a spooky Halloween game if you're having a party.

With only a couple of weeks to go until the big night, this is how to paint your own pumpkins - and some ideas to get the creative juices flowing.

How to paint your own pumpkins

You will need...

Pumpkins
Acrylic paints
Paint brush
Glitter
Masking Tape
Pencil

How to paint your own:

Paint the pumpkins in different patterns with bright acrylic paints. While the paint is still wet, sprinkle some glitter on top.
For a stripy pumpkin, stick strips of masking tape onto the side of the pumpkin, then paint the un-taped sections in black. Allow to dry, then remove the tape. Add fine brush strokes of blue and pink paint on the painted sections, and paint the stalk.
For a spotty pumpkin, first paint 3/4 of the pumpkin with 2 coats of white paint and leave to dry. Then take a pencil and dab the end in some pink paint, and stamp onto the white to create a spotty pattern.

Halloween painted pumpkin ideas

1. Simple painted pumpkin idea

Credit: Getty

This is a super basic painted pumpkin idea - all you need is a black Sharpie. It's one of the best ideas to go for if you've only got limited time on your hands to decorate your pumpkin before the evening or you've got limited supplies.

2. Animal pumpkins

Whether it's your favourite animal or a furry friend at home, animals are super easy designs to put onto pumpkins. As well as a fox, you could make any orange animal very easily - from a tabby cat to a tiger. For animals of other colours, use different colour paints straight onto the pumpkin as the background then use a marker to complete the design.

3. Spider pumpkin

Turn one spooky creature into another with this spider pumpkin idea. You'll need some large black pipe cleaners for the legs, black paint for the pumpkin and white paint for the big eyes. It's a super unique idea that's a great one if you're looking to do something a little different this Halloween.

4. Glitter pumpkin

Credit: Getty

While you won't need loads of paint for this, you'll certainly need plenty of glitter and glue. Start with your paint base then layer up with glue over the top of the paint once it's dried. Before the glue dries, pour plenty of glitter all over the top of the pumpkin then leave it to dry one more time.

5. Portrait pumpkins

If you love classic Halloween movies, you'll love this painted Halloween pumpkin idea. It's certainly one for those with more of an artistic flair - and plenty of time.

6. Calligraphy pumpkin

This DIY pumpkin idea is so cute and playful! You don't need loads of different coloured paints to complete the look, you'll just need two aesthetically-pleasing colours and a steady hand with a Sharpie.

7. Gingham print pumpkin

Gingham was one of the best and brightest looks of summer 2021 and we're bringing that look into autumn this year. It's a design that's equal parts simple and stylish. Go for one bold colour on a white painted pumpkin for ultimate impact.

8. Monogrammed pumpkins

Monogrammed pumpkins are a great way to welcome people into your home over the festive season. It also makes for a great activity to do with the family as you can pick the colours, design and shape of the pumpkin together.

9. Neon pumpkin

Much like the neon paint pumpkin design, this one just needs a couple of neon paints and some space - it's definitely not one you'll want to do indoors! Apply the neon however you want. We love this dripping look but a splatter also works just as well.

10. Flower pumpkin

Any lover of bright colours will appreciate this bold pumpkin design. Level up the look by creating more than one of these flower pumpkins for ultimate #flowerpower on Halloween.

11. Doorstop pumpkin

These colourful painted pumpkins give trick-or-treaters somewhere to head for. First, buy a number stencil of your house number to set to the pumpkin. Once in the position you want it, cover it in two coats of paint, waiting at least half an hour between coats so they have a good chance to dry. Then move the stencil and there you go!

12. Harry Potter pumpkin

Harry Potter is one of the most popular Halloween kids costumes every year - so why not bring turn the boy wizard into a pumpkin? You can use simple acrylic paints to make Harry's iconic glasses, scar and other features. If you're feeling truly adventurous, copy this design and turn a smaller vegetable into Hedwig.

13. Nightmare Before Christmas pumpkin

Another Halloween classic, this pumpkin is inspired by Jack Skellington. The main character of the movie is the star of the show with his iconic skeletal white face and stitched mouth.

14. Sweet pumpkin

If you’ve got a real sweet tooth then Halloween is undoubtedly your favourite holiday, with so many Halloween food ideas on offer in the supermarkets. Celebrate with this cute pumpkin design in the theme of donuts. All you need is some colourful paints and a steady hand.

15. Two tone pumpkin

Don’t settle for one colour when you can have many! To create this unique design, get some simple masking tape, a foam brush and your favourite acrylic paint colours. This will help to create the striking two tone effect without smudges or overlaps.

16. Funny pumpkin

Turn your favourite funny quote or meme into a Halloween decoration with this entertaining idea. All you need is paint for the base of the pumpkin if you don’t want to leave it orange and a bold marker-style paint for the slogan. Be sure it’s big and bold so trick-or-treaters don’t miss it!

17. Dotty pumpkin

This dots pumpkin is equal parts unique and so simple. While this designer has gone for classic silver painted dots on a black background, you could also use a whole multitude of colours to create this fun painted pumpkins design.

18. Autumnal pumpkin

When we say it's spooky season, what we really mean is that it’s autumn. The leaves are turning brown and the days are getting colder. Celebrate the season with this autumnal-themed pumpkin design using bold brown, mustard yellow and green colours to resemble foliage at this time of year.

19. Leaf print pumpkin

If you want an autumnal design that’s a little more inventive, go for this leaf print painted pumpkin design. This designer has gone for a cool blue colour but if that’s not quite right for you, you could go for a warm red or orange shade.

20. Musical pumpkin

With the return of theatres and live shows this year, we’ve all been able to go back and see our favourite live musical shows. Celebrate that occasion with this great design! This creator has gone for the musical Wicked, a perfect pick with its traditionally spooky feel.

21. Summer pumpkin

Refusing to believe that autumn is here already? Look back to warmer weather with this cute painted pumpkin idea, featuring oranges and bees. Go one step further and spray the stalk of the pumpkin with gold for that truly bright and bold feeling.

22. Winnie the Pooh pumpkin

Want to create this loveable character from the famous children's book? All you need is some yellow and black paint. Create the ears using small pieces of cardboard, also painted yellow, and fix into the pumpkin by cutting small slices along the top.

23. Pokemon pumpkin

Recreate your favourite Pokemon characters with this fun idea! While this creator has gone for Gengar, you could also use yellow, red and black paint to make your own Pikachu pumpkin. This idea works for any character that's round with large features, easily recognisable from wherever you keep your pumpkin.

24. Greeting pumpkin

This painted pumpkin design is so simple - but so effective. Paint your entire pumpkin white and with a very steady hand, carefully apply your greeting to trick-or-treaters. While we love this poetic approach, a basic ‘welcome’ message would also do the trick.

25. Frankenstein pumpkin

Frankenstein is a classic Halloween monster so perfect for a painted pumpkin idea if you want to stick to the spooky tradition. A strong green, black and white paint is all you need to create this design.

26. Vampire pumpkin

In a similar fashion, try this cute vampire design. While a white-painted pair of fangs will turn any smiley face into dracula, to get this more unique younger vampire look you’ll need to do something a bit different. Make sure to pick a pumpkin that’s not too big and round out the facial features like the eyes, a smaller mouth and childlike fangs.

Using the two ideas above, you could create a spooky family to represent your own!

27. Movie night pumpkin

Halloween is for snuggling down on the sofa with a good film and a cup of hot chocolate. Bring that idea into your living room permanently with this unique movie night painted pumpkin - featuring popcorn, of course!

28. Sea life pumpkin

These tropical pumpkins will certainly remind you of sunnier climates! This designer has gone for octopus, turtle, flamingo and anchor designs to bring a real look of the sea to Halloween.

29. Rainbow pumpkins

Rainbow pumpkins are a colourful way to brighten up your doorstep. Whether you go for all colours on one pumpkin or one pumpkin for each colour of the rainbow is up to you.

30. Crayon pumpkin

This video shows you step-by-step how to make this fun pumpkin idea. It’s not strictly a painted pumpkin design as you won’t need any paints to pull this off but well worth trying it out if you’ve got some old Crayon ends lying around.

Glitter jars: How to make your own calm down jar or bottle

Joanne Lewsley — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 15:27:00 +0000

Glitter jars are a DIY sensory experience that can help to soothe and calm your child's mind.

With their swirling patterns and pop of sparkle, these glitter jars or 'calming jars' can be an antidote for dysregulated kids (dysregulation can look like irritable, angry, temper tantrums and outbursts). The movement of the glitter, glue and water can help to soothe and calm troubled minds. Just give them a good shake, then watch until the glitter settles in the bottom of the jar to refocus and refresh your overwhelmed child, making these DIY toys an excellent mindfulness activity for kids.

Editor's note

Note: For younger children, we'd recommend using a plastic jar or bottle rather than a glass jar to prevent accidents. Our quantities are based on a standard 500ml jar, so you may need to scale up the ratios if you're using a larger bottle or container.

Calming jars can be part of a broader strategy to teach your child emotional regulation. Watching the motions and colours in the jar swirl and settle can help your child calm their mind and focus their attention and breathing.

Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to make a glitter or calming jar, along with a helpful video. Plus, we speak to an education expert about how this simple tool can help children manage their emotions at school and home.

What is a glitter jar?

It is usually a clear, transparent jar or bottle filled with liquid (water or clear glue), glitter, or other small, colourful objects like sequins, beads, or tiny toys. A glitter jar, also known as a mindfulness or calm-down jar, is a simple and visually captivating tool often used for relaxation and stress reduction, particularly in mindfulness and meditation practices.

Credit: MakeaGIF.com

Some parents use glitter jars as regulation timers. You can do this by sitting with your little one to watch the jar until the flakes have all fallen. However, if your child is very upset, don't force them to use the calming jar. This simple tool works much better when your child is relatively calm. It can also be a helpful distraction if you spot early signs of frustration or anxiety, preventing a bigger meltdown later on.

Glitter jars are super-customisable, and you can experiment with different colours objects, and jar sizes to create a personal experience that your child can enjoy and relate to. They're also easy to make at home - read on for instructions!

Watch how to make a glitter jar:

To make a glitter jar you will need:

A jar or plastic bottle
A jug of warm water
60ml glitter glue
3 drops of gel food colouring
60g-80g glitter

How to make a glitter jar at home

1. Add warm water to your jar or bottle. Pour the water until it reaches around a third of the way up.

2. Add the glitter glue. Squeeze in your chosen glitter glue and stir until it has combined with the water.

3. Add around 3 drops of food colour and stir. You can add more or less depending on your preferred shade, but remember not to add too much or the mixture will become very dark and it will become hard to see the glitter.

4. Pour in the glitter. Again, you can use more or less than suggested or go for a mix of chunky and fine glitter to give more texture to your jar. Stir well until combined with the existing mixture.

5. Top up your jar with the rest of the warm water. Pour in the water until it is almost full. Leave a little gap at the top of the jar to allow the mixture to move. Then secure the lid.

Optional: If you like, you can use super glue to stick the lid to the top of the jar or bottle.
Top tip: Some of our Goodto Facebook followers tell us that adding a squirt of baby oil or liquid soap to your jar can give a slower-moving 'galaxy' effect - give it a try and let us know how you get on!

How do glitter jars calm kids down?

Glitter jars have a calming quality that can improve a child's mental health, helping them deal with big emotions like anger, anxiety and stress.

We spoke to Genevieve Ford, Deputy Head and Pastoral Head of Downe House School in Berkshire, to learn more. "The key benefit of the calming jar is its ability to promote emotional regulation", says Genevieve. "When children become upset or anxious, they can shake the jar and watch as the swirling glitter settles. This process mirrors the settling of their own racing thoughts and emotions."

Genevieve recommends using calming jars to help children focus and concentrate,e too. "In a world filled with distractions, teaching children how to concentrate on one thing at a time is invaluable. As they watch the glitter slowly settle, they learn to concentrate on the present moment, fostering a sense of mindfulness that can be carried into their academic and personal lives."

According to Genevieve, a calming jar can even be incorporated into a bedtime routine to wind down and relax before your little one drifts off to sleep. "By incorporating this simple yet effective tool into their daily routines, we can empower our children with valuable skills they can carry with them throughout their lives, helping them navigate the challenges of the modern world with resilience and calm."

Love crafting with your kids? Get even more inspired with our free craft templates, learn how to create your very own bunny rabbit doll and discover 50 easy crafts for kids that are fun, fast to set up, and totally engaging.

50 easy crafts for kids that are fun, fast to set up, and totally engaging

Lucy Wigley — Thu, 20 May 2021 13:20:47 +0000

Easy crafts for kids are the difference between a quiet and engaged activity and one that involves spending £15 and drinking bad coffee (we mean soft play). We found 50 crafts to do that are fun, cheap, and so simple.

As parents, research is always on, it starts with Googling 'best travel strollers' and it just never ends, you're Googling the best places to take kids, things to do with kids, and films to watch with kids. We know you're always on the lookout for the kids, especially at weekends or during the school holidays. And sometimes the weather puts a dampener on our ready-made outdoor plans. This is why we’ve created a handy list of craft ideas that are the perfect indoor activities for kids. And sure to save any long wet weekend.

While there's always a place for a kids movie on Netflix, sometimes we want to get them doing, not watching. Our crafts for kids are easy to do - so it doesn’t matter if you’re a complete craft beginner (like us) or already a creative pro. Plus, crafting can be a great mindfulness activity for kids too.

Whatever your budget, and whether you've minutes or hours to dedicate to getting creative, we have 50 fantastic craft ideas for you to choose from.

Easy crafts for kids:

1. Homemade play dough

There's something both therapeutic and educational about moulding fresh play dough into shapes, especially for little ones. Young muscles can develop strength, control and fine motor skills, whilst experiencing the feel of different textures with this squidgy craft number. Better than buying some from the shops, our easy play dough recipe is as good (if not better and cheaper) than the shop-bought kind.

Get the method: Our best play dough recipe plus 7 fun things to make

2. A chatterbox or fortune teller

Credit: TI Media Limited

It doesn't get much simpler than this - with our origami chatterbox craft requiring just a few pens and a piece of paper to do. A playground favorite, kids will love decorating this toy and playing it with their friends and family.

Get the method: How to make a chatterbox

3. DIY stickers

Credit: TI Media Limited

What child doesn't love stickers and a good sticker book? This is one of our favorite crafts for kids, allowing your little ones can create their own personalized stickers and allow their imagination to run riot. This might just be the perfect activity for a rainy afternoon.

Get the method: How to make stickers

4. Lava lamp

Credit: Getty

Lava lamps are a great sensory stimulus for little ones, while showing bigger kids the science behind the cool chemical reactions. Making a lava lamp might seem like a big step forward if you're not a keen crafter, but this DIY tutorial is really easy to follow and requires mostly regular kitchen items to get stuck in.

Get the method: How to make a lava lamp with children

5. Jolly jellyfish

These jolly jellyfish another favorite craft for us. They also make for a great bedroom decoration when hung above a bed, or from a curtain pole. If you don't fancy forking out for googly eyes, the eyes can be drawn on instead. All other equipment like ribbons, tissue or wrapping paper, should be readily available in your house too.

Get the method: How to make a jellyfish

6. Rainbow wand

Credit: TI Media Limited

This rainbow wand is a fun activity, while doubling as a toy or handy dressing-up accessory. We've used glitter card, colorful ribbons, scissors and glue to assemble. Kids can always go wild and add extra customization with beads, gems or anything else that feels fun.

Get the method: How to make a rainbow wand

7. Rainbow decorations

Credit: TI Media Limited

Another hugely popular DIY activity, this time featuring the enduring popularity of rainbows. This is one of our easiest crafts for kids, with only five items of equipment needed. We reckon these rainbow decorations would go down well at any kids party too; just set up a craft table with the ready-cut card and ribbon, and be on hand to show children the ropes.

Get the method: How to make your own rainbow decorations

8. Toilet paper tube crafts

Credit: Getty

Toilet roll tubes are definitely something every household has. We recommend storing a few, and sitting down to try one of our thirteen toilet paper tube crafts once you have a collection. Our favorite includes these carp fish creations, which can so easily be transformed into a hanging mobile with some string and added creativity.

Get the method: 13 things to make with toilet roll tubes

9. Tie dye t-shirts

Another popular and colorful crafts for kids, this idea will transform an old white tee into an original tie-dye creation? Kids love rainbows and this fun activity will create a one-of-a-kind design that they can proudly show off to their friends.

Get the method: How to tie dye t-shirts

10. Rainbow sun catcher

Credit: TI Media Limited

Another one of our fantastic rainbow decorations is this rainbow sun catcher - a perfect decorative piece for any child's bedroom. We recommend constructing this craft around spring or summer when your child can be dazzled by the light, sending colorful beams around the room.

Get the method: How to make a rainbow sun catcher

11. Pen pots

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Transform an old plastic water bottle into something functional to house all those pens and pencils that would otherwise find themselves lost. Children might need a little more adult assistance with cutting the plastic, but decorating their creations will occupy them once the hard part is complete. These homemade pen pots would make great gifts come Mother's Day, Father's Day or a family member's birthday.

Get the method: How to make pen pots from plastic bottles

12. Paper hats

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Crafting doesn't get any easier than these quirky paper hats, which can be made using anything from old newspapers to left-over wrapping paper. They're great for incorporating into games and the origami process develops key hand-eye coordination, and concentration skills.

Get the method: How to make a paper hat

13. Party piñata

This fish piñata is a great craft to do with your child and will go down a storm at any upcoming birthday parties. Just keep an eye on your kid and any sweets that go 'missing' during the making process...

Get the method: How to make a pinata

14. Rainbow art

Credit: TI Media Limited

Why not use up any surplus rainbow ribbons from the wand and heart craft, and create this fun colorful craft too. These rainbow sun and cloud paper plate crafts uses similar materials, plus paint and a paper plate. We recommended stringing these up in the window of your home to send a positive message to passersby.

Get the method: How to turn a paper plate into a rainbow

15. Cardboard kitchen

Credit: TI Media Ltd

Little ones love imitating their parents by playing at cooking in the kitchen. So why not recreate a colorful play kitchen from a couple of old shoe boxes? You can finish it off with some cheap kids play pots and pans from Amazon or they can always borrow ones already found in your kitchen cupboards.

Get the method: How to make a toy box kitchen

16. DIY dreamcatchers

Credit: TI Media Limited

Children love getting creative with beads and feathers. These dreamcatchers could also help relieve any anxiety youngsters hold over having bad dreams or nightmares too. Help them construct their own with some paper plates, string and a little imagination.

Get the method: How to make dreamcatchers

17. Vegetable printing

Vegetable printing is sure to be something any crafty kid will love. An added benefit being it's a great way to use up any uneatable fruit and vegetables from the fridge. Simply get your template, paint and material ready, then you're good to go! We love this heart-shaped potato print bunting in particular.

Get the method: How to do vegetable printing

18. Homemade hair scrunchies

Credit: TI Media Limited

This is one craft older children will especially love, as they can customize their own scrunchies with a bright array of patterns and colours. Using materials of their choice and this handy tutorial, you can learn how to make your own scrunchy. Unique and useful - this is one of our favorite crafts for kids.

Get the method: How to make hair scrunchies

19. Funny face frames

Credit: TI Media Limited

What is one of the best things about heading to the pier at any British seaside resort? The wacky photo stands of course! Capture that excitement at home with this fun craft and have children invent with their own quirky characters.

Get the method: How to make funny-face frames

20. Pebble people

Credit: TI Media Limited

Who doesn't have old pebbles from the beach or stones from the garden lying around? Instead of letting them get under your feet, get your kids to make them into fun characters - or even portraits of your family. Along with the pebbles, all you need is a couple of pots of paint and a bit of inspiration.

Get the method: How to make pebble people

21. Paper mache

Spend the weekend creating an amazing paper mache creation - one of our super simple crafts for kids. There's plenty of cutting and sticking to do with this one, which helps develop key fine motor skills in the process. As with all crafts with scissors - adult supervision is recommended.

Get the method: How to paper mache

22. Rainbow streamers

Credit: TI Media Limited

With this simple tutorial, create rainbow streamers by transforming a toilet roll tube into a fun toy that kids of all ages will love. Once finished, hang them outside to watch the streamers really come alive.

Get the method: How to make rainbow streamers

23. DIY dinosaur

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Kids with a passion for the prehistoric period can create their own dinosaur kingdom from readily available household objects like toilet rolls and paper plates. Copy our sauropod design to start with, then branch out to fan favorites like the T-rex or a triceratops.

Get the method: How to make a paper dinosaur

24. Puppet theatre

Credit: Getty

This kids craft is a little more complex and will require specific items like velcro (which mum or dad will have to iron). But don't let that put you off; once constructed this theatre will keep kiddies busy for hours, as they conjure up vivid stories and characters to share via the stage.

Get the method: How to make a puppet theatre

25. Elephant's feet

To make these nifty elephant's feet you'll need some large tin cans and plenty of paint. If you've just painted a room recently, even better! Use the old paint cans to create this excellent crafting project and let your little ones bring their dreams of stomping across the savanna to life.

Get the method here: How to make elephant's feet with tin cans

26. Tin can kites

Credit: TI Media Limited

Another of our tin based crafts for kids, these tin can kites will brighten up any dull day. Anyone with a cupboard full of tinned goods is sure to have a few spare cans lying around - get your child to put them to good use with splatterings of paint and lots of ribbon.

Get the method: How to make neon kites by recycling old tin cans

27. Easter pom-pom animals

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Originally one of our more seasonal crafts for kids, these Easter pom-pom animals can make an excellent decoration at any time of the year - stretch your creativity to transfer this craft to any celebration. Be sure to hang the finished item around the house ready for whichever festivity you've made them for - they could even be planted around the house to make a fun treasure hunt.

Get the method: How to make adorable Easter pom pom animals

28. Bug hotel

Credit: Getty

This is the perfect craft for any green fingered child fascinated by creatures. Source any leftover building materials like bricks, felt or even an old tire, then assemble your mini-beast motel with our easy-to-follow tutorial. Kids will love checking in on guests regularly, and learning all the fun facts about them.

Get the method: How to make a bug hotel

29. Fans

These paper fans make gorgeous decorations for a kid's play room or temporary den. Made from patterned paper and a lollipop stick, they're also one of the cheapest crafts for kids in our round-up.

Get the method: How to make pretty paper fans

30. Calming glitter jars

Credit: TI Media Limited

These glitter jars are thoroughly therapeutic and can be created in five speedy steps using a clean jam jar, some glitter and water. Kids (and adults) can enjoy a quiet moment watching the glitter fall, which in turn will enable them to re-centre their energy, focus and any pent-up stress.

Get the method: How to make glitter jars

31. Sunshine

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If you've hosted a birthday party recently, chances are you'll have a few paper plates going spare. If so, this sunshine craft is the perfect activity to re-upholster and re-cycle them. Cheap to do, you'll just need some yellow paint and coloured card to construct.

Get the method: How to make a paper-plate sun

32. Egg-box bus

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Never under-estimate a good old-fashioned egg-box craft creation. We've come up with 10 different things you can create with them, including this bright egg-box bus that'll keep your child busy for an afternoon or two.

Get the method: 10 things to make with egg boxes

33. Paper boat

Much like the paper hats, these paper boats are a really fun and inventive way to use up old newspaper or wrapping paper. Create unique designs with as many different colors and patterns as you like, then set sail.

Get the method: How to make a paper boat

34. A paper gun (that shoots)

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Any budding cowboy or cowgirl of the house needs a pistol to re-enact their Wild West adventures. Follow our easy tutorial to create a gun from paper that actually shoots out counters.

Get the method: How to make a paper gun that shoots

35. Wanda the Witch

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With some basic craft materials and a wooden spoon, your child can get into the Halloween spirit at any time of year, with this wonderful wicked witch creation. This craft doubles up as a great decoration when the spooky day comes around - try slotting the end of the spoon into some soil on your front lawn to give the neighbors a real fright.

Get the method: How to make Wanda the witch

36. A cloud pinboard

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Stock image)

Children will be delighted to adorn a wall with this fun cloud-shaped pinboard that they’ve created themselves. Filling it with family photos, their own pictures, or reminders of important dates, will add to the fun. With only a small amount of equipment needed, get messy and transform a boring pinboard into something wonderful.

Get the method: How to make a cloud pinboard

37. A teacup bird feeder

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Stock image)

We have found the perfect way to introduce children to upcycling, with this teacup bird feeder that repurposes chipped or broken crockery. Instead of sending old teacups and saucers to the dustbin, add personality to your garden and help out any feathered visitors with this decorative bird feeder - just be sure to use glue suitable for withstanding all weather!

Get the method: How to make a teacup bird feeder

38. Marquee letters

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Stock image)

These are bang on trend, but can be expensive to buy. Save yourself some money and unleash creativity, with DIY marquee letters that are certain to get visitors talking. Taking personalization to the max, anything can be created from the letters you make; names, funny or inspirational quotes, the world is your oyster.

Get the method: How to make marquee letters

39. Kids thank you cards

(Image credit: Contributor supplied)

Nothing says “thank you” quite like a personal card from the grateful recipient. Get children to offer their thanks for Christmas or birthday gifts, with these homemade cards that offer an individual touch. Not only that, parents can help out with this fun activity, keeping the whole family entertained in the process.

Get the method: Homemade kids thank you cards

40. Mini bow and arrow

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Contributor supplied)

Youngsters can keep their precious possessions protected from in-coming foe, with this bow and arrow craft! An alternative to buying a toy bow and arrow set, this activity is both environmentally friendly and offers hours of fun for a very low cost. Be sure to have Washi tape to hand for this project, which is also perfect for many other craft ideas we have for you.

Get the method: How to make a mini bow and arrow

41. Terrazzo candle holder

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Contributor supplied)

Another perfect upcycling project, our terrazzo candle holder tutorial will show you how to update an old candle holder with a jazzy terrazzo effect. Modeling-clay and a little imagination are all you need for crafting a traditional terrazzo pattern, plus the environment will thank you for upcycling old candle holders rather than sending them to landfill.

Get the method: How to make a terrazzo candle holder

42. A crayon letter picture

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Stock image)

Rainy days spent indoors are now sorted, with this project that results in the perfect picture for adorning the walls. Children can select their favorite colors and shades (or parents can help them pick out the ones that match existing decor!) to create a letter picture to be admired by all. Choosing the shape of the letter before printing the template, offers plenty of personalization opportunities for young crafters. You’ll need a glue gun for this one, so be aware of hot glue, and little fingers accidentally getting stuck together…!

Get the method: Make your own crayon letter picture craft

43. A 3D cactus

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Stock image)

A simple paper craft, children will be delighted to create their very own 3D paper cacti. If it’s a Western-themed bedroom you’re after, or an alternative to real plants for your shelves, this project has you covered. Grab some tissue paper, card and glue, and a pot plant if this is how you choose to display them. The best thing is they won’t need watering or any attention, unlike traditional house plants!

Get the method: Fun 3D cactus craft

44. String art

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Contributor supplied)

This is one for slightly older children, who can give an old cork memo board a new lease of life by transforming it into a colorful string art creation. Choose a paint to make your old memo board as good as new, then let loose with weaving together colorful string into a beautiful heart-shaped pattern. While increasing patience skills and concentration, this craft will also make the perfect home decoration or gift.

Get the method: How to make string art

45. Animal plant holders

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Contributor supplied)

Children will love putting letting their imaginations run wild with these animal plant holders, while creating a beautiful gift in the process. Scoop up any old toy animal no longer in use, and transform them into an original way to showcase plants. Aimed at 3-5 year olds, adults will need to help with the initial cutting and the small people can do the rest. They can be themed for a room in your own room, or gifted to family and friends for something to treasure.

Get the method: Animal plant holders

46. Fifteen amazing loom band ideas

(Image credit: Pinterest)

The loom band trend has swept schools everywhere, and here we have not just one, but 15 incredible ideas for your loom band enthusiast. From Winnie the Pooh and Minions, to unicorns and personalized bracelets, there will be a tutorial for everyone. Even better, everything you need can be found online, with loom band packs starting from under £1, making this a cost-effective activity.

Get the method: 15 amazing loom band ideas

47. Bath bombs

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Contributor supplied)

Bath time just got even relaxing for adults, with these homemade bath bombs their children can make. Choose your own fragrances and let the kids get to work; but be aware that essential oils can cause skin irritation, and following our instructions and carrying out your own research is vital before stepping into that aromatic bath water…

Get the method: How to make bath bombs

48. Bits & bobs canvas

(Image credit: Contributor supplied)

Not sure what a bits & bobs canvas is? It’s something you need in your life, and the children will love putting it together! Aimed at those aged 4 and over, this project will round up and find a use for the random plastic items every household accrues. Don’t throw out broken toys, odd buttons and other unwanted items, but use our method and your imagination to craft a fantastic item.

Get the method: How to make your own bits & bobs canvas

49. Father's Day gifts

(Image credit: Getty)

Spoil dad on the day that’s all about him, with a homemade gift. We have plenty of ideas here for children at all ages and stages, to create the perfect gift for their parent. It could be a tool-shaped bookmark, or themed storage for his office supplies - there will be something here sure to delight daddy!

Get the method: Homemade Father's Day gifts

50. Colorful spinning tops

Credit: TI Media Limited (Image credit: Contributor supplied)

Picture beads are given a new and fun purpose, with this inventive project for crafty kids aged 7-9. Grab a handful of the beads and arrange on a pegboard, and be wowed when the finished product is a spinning top! This simple idea not only uses up old picture beads, but creates a new toy in the process - you can thank us for the extra hours of fun your small people will have when they’ve finished.

Get the method: How to make colorful spinning tops from picture beads

What can kids make that is easy?

A mess. We joke, we joke. The answer to this is a bit like 'how long is a piece of string'. What's easy for one kid might be a challenge to another. You know your kid better than anyone. The safest bet to encourage kids with crafts, easy or not, is to focus on the doing no the end result. When they show you a painting or a drawing, talk about how focussed they were, and how hard it looked like they were trying, instead of 'amazing drawing'.

What crafts are good for kids who don't like crafts?

Messy engaging ones, usually. We get it, there's a lot of pressure on parents to get it right and crafting is one of them, a wholesome activity that many a parent think parenting 101. But sometimes, no matter how hard you try your kid just isn't interested in crafting.

Dot art - simple take a pack of colourful dotted stickers and challenge them to spell out their name out in dots, or 'fastest draw' see who can get 50 stickers on the paper first.
Let rip - Collaging, but not calling it collaging could work. Let them rip and cut up papers, magazines, leaflets anything they can find. Then sit together and imagine something, a message you want the non-collage to convey, then get sticking.
Paint with marbles - all you need is a baking tray, A4 card, marbles and paint. Dip each marble in paint and roll around the baking tray. The trail of paint will create a masterpiece.

If this list has inspired you and there's a collection of cardboard boxes accumulating in your house, we have a list of 23 cardboard box crafts for kids. Crafting isn't just for the little ones - these easy craft projects for beginners can be done when the children are sleeping, for some relaxing adult downtime.

How to tie dye t-shirts: Step-by-step instructions on how to tie dye

Esme Clemo — Tue, 04 May 2021 10:05:29 +0000

Learning how to tie dye t-shirts with things in your household is not only a fun craft and activity to get stuck into over the weekend but it’s also a great way to re-use old clothes and turn them into something you’d wear again.

Tie dyeing t-shirts is one of those crafty fashion trends that always come back into style every couple of years. The versatility of the print and the many ways that you can tie dye t-shirts yourself makes it an appealing craft project for beginners as well.

We've created this step-by-step guide to help you create your own unique tie dye patterns on t-shirts, but the same techniques can be used on all sorts of fabrics and clothes. From socks to jeans, old white shirts and all sorts of home furnishings like cushion covers or dip dye napkins.

How to tie dye t-shirts

To tie dye t-shirts, you will need:

Elastic bands or string - we've used string throughout as we had some already but elastic bands are great for speed
Pre-washed and still damp t-shirts (or another item you wish to dye)
Rubber gloves
Fabric dyes, we've used a range of Dylon fabric hand dyes in Paradise Blue, Passion Pink, Ocean Blue, Sunflower Yellow, Tropical Green, Tulip Red and Peony Pink
Old bottles or cartons with caps or spray attachments (plastic drinks bottles work best)
Warm water
Salt
Large and deep dishes or trays for dyeing

And these added extras will help to create even more unusual designs with your tie dye:

Cling film
Microwave
Air or water-erasable pen
Ruler
Ice
Cooling rack

Preparing to tie dye t-shirts

Begin by mixing up the powdered dyes with warm water and salt, following the manufacturer's instructions for the measurements. We made up 500ml in each dye colour.
Pour the dye mixtures into the clean bottles or cartons. Top with a spray attachment or use a push pin to create a hole in the top of the old cap to squirt the dye through.
Make sure the fabric or item for dyeing has been washed and is still damp before you begin dyeing.
Cover all your surfaces with a protective sheet or, better still, take your dyeing outside on a sunny day for less-mess. Tie-dying, with all its potential for mess, is a great outdoor craft!

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

How to do different tie dye patterns

There are loads of ways to create different patterns when tie-dyeing, most methods use string or elastic bands to fold and shape the fabric before applying the dye. Take a look at our step-by-step instructions to create your own psychedelic designs or bold patterns.

How to tie dye a spiral t-shirt

1. Start by twisting the centre of the t-shirt or fabric into a spiral shape.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

2. Keep squashing the t-shirt into the spiral shape, eventually gathering all the fabric into one big, tight spiral ball.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

3. Using either string or elastic bands, gather the spiralled t-shirt together into six sections - you can add more sections if you're using more than three colours.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

4. Now it's time to tie dye! Place the spiralled t-shirt into the bowl and apply your chosen dyes - for this project we used Dylon's Sunflower Yellow, Paradise Blue and Passion Pink dyes. We've chosen to only dye every other stringed-off section to leave some of the white t-shirt on show, but it's up to you how you decide to dye your t-shirt. Allow the dye to soak in following the manufacturer's instructions. Rinse off with cold water and then it's ready for washing.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

Watch our step-by-step video on how to tie dye:

How to tie dye a chevron stripe t-shirt

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

1. Begin by folding your t-shirt lengthways in a concertina pattern. We folded our t-shirt into five, but you can fold as many times as you want. The fewer the folds, the fewer chevrons.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

2. Using an erasable pen, or a pen in a similar colour to your fabric dye, draw diagonal lines across the t-shirt every 10cm. Again, you can increase this measurement for wider stripes.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

3. With elastic bands or string, tie the t-shirt up in the direction of the diagonal lines. Gather the material up tightly to make sure no dye can soak in underneath the string.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

4. Continue tying up the t-shirt along the diagonal lines along the entire length of the t-shirt until it looks like this.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

5. Place the tied up t-shirt in a large dish ready for dying. Using two colours of your pre-mixed dye, apply each colour to every other stripe. We used Tulip Red and Ocean Blue for this project.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

6. Once tie dyed, leave the dye to soak in for as long as the manufacturer advises. We wanted a faded, nineties look for this top so we only left the dye on for five hours. Then rinse with cold water until the water runs clear and it's ready for washing.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

How to tie dye a circle t-shirt

1. Begin by tugging up small sections of the t-shirt between your thumb and forefinger. Using an elastic band or a piece of string, wrap around the circular section tightly and knot to secure in place.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

2. Continue tying off the circles all over the t-shirt like this.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

3. Fill a deep dish with the pre-mixed blue dye and dunk your tied t-shirt in the mixture. For this project we used Dylon's Ocean Blue dye.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

4. Keep pushing the t-shirt down into the dye until it's completely covered. Leave to sit for about five minutes.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

5. Remove the t-shirt from the dye solution and wring out any of the excess dye. Wrap the t-shirt in a piece of cling film and place it on a microwavable plate. Microwave on a high setting for about 1 minute. The heat will help the dye take to the t-shirt and means less waiting around. Rinse in cold water until the water runs clear and it's ready for washing.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

How to tie dye with ice

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

1. Start by stacking your wire rack over the top of your dyeing dish.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

2. Scrunch up your damp t-shirt and top with a big handful of ice evenly spread out.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

3. Using the powdered dyes, sprinkle directly on top of the ice and t-shirt. For this project we used Dylon's Sunflower Yellow, Paradise Blue and Passion Pink dyes.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

4. Put the dish to one side and let the dyes soak in as the ice slowly melts. You'll see the colours deepen and run with the ice. Leave the colours to develop and dye for 24 hours. You might wish to rotate the t-shirt part way through and top with more ice and dye powder for greater coverage. Rinse with cold water until the water runs clear and the t-shirt is then ready for washing.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

How to tie dye t-shirts with food colouring

If you don't have any dye at home you can also use food colouring to tie dye t-shirts. But, because food colouring is an acid-based dye, you need to use clothing that is NOT made from plant-based fabrics like cotton and linen. Instead, use a polyester item of clothing.

Mix two cups of white vinegar to two cups of warm water and soak your clothing or fabric in the mixture for one hour.
While the clothes soak, mix eight drops of your food colouring with 120ml warm water.
Use this dye mixture to create any of the patterns listed above.
Leave to soak for eight hours before rinsing in a salt water solution - 120g salt to 120ml cold water - until the water runs clear. Then the items are ready to be washed.

How to make pastel tie dye

An easy way to create a pastel colour when tie dyeing is to simply dilute the dye with more warm water or to leave the dye soaking into the fabric for a shorter period of time. However this can create a faded look to your item of clothing so, unless you want a t-shirt that looks like it's a genuine vintage piece from back in the day, opt for an ombre pattern to make a pastel tie dye look.

Make up your dye mixtures in large dishes or buckets, we've used Dylon's Sunflower Yellow, Paradise Blue and Passion Pink dyes.
Dip your fabric, item of clothing, or napkins in our case, into the bucket, leaving the top edge free from dye. Remove from the dish and set aside for thirty minutes. Repeat, this dipping process, reducing the amount of fabric dipped into the dye every time.
On the last dipping, the bottom 5cm of each napkin should be the deepest and darkest shade whilst the top edge should be white. The dye pattern should gradually change from white to pastel to bright dye creating a pastel ombre effect.

(Credit: GoodToKnow/Esme Clemo)

How to wash tie dye t shirts

Learning how to tie dye t shirts is loads of fun and you can pretty much do it with any item of clothing – like baby grows, socks, jeans or even other materials, like towels and table cloths. However, there comes a time when all these things have to be washed, and that’s when problems can happen. You don’t want your fresh tie-dye pattern disintegrating in the wash, or even worse, the dye moving onto other clothes. Here’s how to wash tie dye in five simple steps…

Rinse the material with cold water under the sink - After the dying process, you should have rinsed out the material anyway, but if not then go back to this step to be sure.
Fill the basin with warm water to set the dye - This will stop it from bleeding onto other clothes when it’s put in the washing machine next time. Mix in a small amount of washing detergent into the water as well.
Leave it in the basin - Let the tie dyed material soak in the mixture of water and detergent for about 15 minutes.
Wash the shirt again under cold water - But be careful not to rub it too hard otherwise you could risk rubbing off the dye. Then allow it to soak again for another 10 minutes.
Hang it out to dry - If possible, hang it out over the bath or in the bathroom, to ensure that any leaked dye doesn’t find its way to carpeted flooring.

After these steps, you can wash it in the machine but be sure not to wash the material on too high a temperature for the first couple of washes.

How to make a patchwork quilt

Esme Clemo — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 09:30:00 +0000

Have a go at learning how to make a patchwork quilt. It's a fun project to help stretch your sewing ability and, who knows, it could become a family keepsake for years to come.

The great thing about this quilt is that it's made with a simple strip-piecing technique that's easy to master. The strip-piecing method patchworks and quilts at the same time, meaning less stress, mess, and it won't take too long to complete

Plus, it means it's reversible too. So whether you're into brights or neutrals, you can cover all bases with a plain side and an adventurous colour-way on the back. We've created ours in complimentary teals and pinks. Once you've finished the quilt, complete your collection with a matching patchwork cushion.

Not ready to take on a mammoth quilt? Start with something smaller like our hand-pieced patchwork pincushion. Caught the patchwork bug? This pretty patchwork oven glove uses the same strip-style technique.

To make a patchwork quilt you will need:

For the strips: 3 pieces of green and 3 pieces of blue cotton fabric measuring 45 x 14in (115 x 36cm) each. We used a selection by Kaffe Fassett from Lady Sew and Sew (01491 572 528; ladysewandsew.co.uk)
For the backing: 2 pieces of cotton fabric measuring 45 x 36in (115 x 92cm)
For the binding: Cotton fabric measuring 45 x 27in (115 x 70cm). You will need to cut binding strips longer than your fabric by joining the strips with a bias-join.
49 squares of thin wadding measuring 7 x 7in (18 x 18cm)
Bondaweb measuring 18 x 24in (45 x 60cm)
Matching thread
6½in square ruler, rotary cutter, and A2 cutting mat (available from fiskars.co.uk)
Reynolds Freezer Paper
Needle and sewing machine
Iron

For sewing supplies, try John Lewis & Partners.

Everything you need to make a patchwork quilt at home. (Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

Cutting out:

For the strips: D Cut each of the 6 fabrics into 1½ x 7in (4 x 18cm) strips
Backing: D Cut the fabrics into 7 x 7in (18 x 18cm) squares
Seam binding: D Cut fabric into 6 strips of 1 x 42in (2.5 x 106.5cm)
Edge binding: D Cut fabric into 2 strips measuring 2½ x 42in (6.5 x 106.5cm) and 2 strips measuring 2½ x 45in (6.5 x 114cm)
Freezer paper: D Cut enough pieces of freezer paper to make a strip measuring ¾ x 42in (1.5 x 106.5cm)
Bondaweb: D Cut 30 strips measuring ½ x 18in (2 x 44cm)

What you could create once you've learned how to make a patchwork quilt! (Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

How to make a block for the patchwork quilt:

1. Take a backing fabric square wrong side up, lay a wadding square on top, then tack or pin together. Decide what order you’d like your strips to go in and lay the first one right side up on top of the wadding. Position the next strip in your sequence right side down on top and pin. Then sew the two strips together using a ¼in (6mm) seam allowance.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

2. Flip over the second strip and finger press well. The wadding will want to ‘shrink’ the width of the strips, so make sure you finger press firmly. You can take it to the iron, however be careful if your wadding is polyester.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

3. Lay the next strip face down on the second strip, stitch, and flip. Continue adding your strips in this way until all six have been used.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

4. Using your rotary cutter, ruler, and cutting mat, trim the block to measure 6½ x 6½in (16.5 x 16.5cm).

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

How to make the patchwork quilt:

1. When all your blocks are complete, lay them out in rows of alternating colour and rotating pattern.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

2. Take the first two blocks, right sides together, and pin along the side through all the thicknesses. Sew with a ¼in (6mm) seam allowance. Then repeat to create a row of blocks.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

3. When all the rows are complete, press out the seams with your fingers or gently with an iron. You can trim the wadding out from the seam if you wish to reduce bulk.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

4. Once all the rows are sewn, join them all together with a ¼in (6mm) seam allowance to make one entire quilt piece. Check as you go that your seams line up at the joins.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

5. Iron the freezer paper, wax-side down, to the center of the wrong side of the seam-binding strips. Them iron over the seam allowance. Remove freezer paper carefully to reuse, then re-iron to fix the seam allowance in place.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

6. Then iron a Bondaweb strip, rough side down, onto the centre of the wrong side of the seam binding. Then remove the paper backing.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

7. Iron the seam binding over an open seam on the back of the blocks – repeat in one direction first and then the other until all open seams have binding covering them.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

8. Hand-stitch the binding on both sides to secure in place.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

How to bind the edges of a quilt:

1. First, take the two shorter edge binding pieces, fold lengthways in half, and press. Pin to opposite sides of the quilt, match the raw edges of the quilt to raw edges of the binding and sew right sides together with a ¼in (6mm) seam allowance.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

2. Turn the binding over to the reverse side of the quilt and hand-stitch in place.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

3. To bind the other two sides of the quilt, fold the 1½in (4cm) excess binding ends to the reverse side and machine-stitch as before on the right side.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

4. Turn the binding to the reverse and hand-stitch in place for a neat finish at corners.

(Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow)

5. To finish, make a label to attach to your quilt. The simplest way to do this is with a marker pen on to a scrap of calico or cotton. Why not give it a name, or how about mentioning where and when it was made, and who made it? In years to come, you never know where your patchwork quilt might end up!

Easter crafts for kids

Grace Walsh — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 15:00:09 +0000

Easter crafts are a unique way to keep kids busy over the holidays, when they're off school and in need of things to do.

Whether you want to make Easter gifts for kids or DIY Easter decorations for the house, there are plenty of Easter craft ideas to try below.

This isn't the type of silly string that flies everywhere and you're still finding it for days on end under the sofa. This Easter silly string craft can be easily contained to the table. Once finished, you could even string the eggs together to create a different type of Easter bunting.

Credit: TI Media Limited

How to make a paper gun that shoots - a step-by-step guide

Esme Clemo — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 11:33:00 +0000

This easy how to make a paper gun step-by-step guide doesn't take long to master and only uses three materials you probably already have at home.

Much nicer than plastic toy guns, these paper alternatives are both fun to make and fun to play with. Plus, anything to stop the constant clutter of plastic toys spilling out of the toybox is a blessing in our eyes.

A great craft for kids to help you with, you can make a paper gun using any colour or pattern of paper. Let the kids choose their favourite colourful prints and paper for the craft. Children love how quick and easy a paper gun that shoots is to make and playing with the craft afterwards is a bonus that should keep kids entertained (at least for a little while).

There are lots of fun things you can make from your stash of colourful paper, like a paper boat, a homemade fortune teller and these fun paper plate masks projects. So check out our other craft ideas to see what you'd like to make next.

How to make a paper gun

To make a paper gun you will need:

A4 paper in your choice of pattern or colour
Scissors
Rubber band

Step-by-step guide on how to make a paper gun

Step 1

Turn the piece of A4 paper so that it's landscape and fold in half.

Step 2

Open out the folded piece of paper to reveal the crease in the centre. Now fold one edge of the paper into the crease line. Repeat folding the same side into the centre.

Step 3

Now repeat on the opposite side, folding the opposite edge into the centre line. Once folded to the centre, fold the paper in half along the original crease line the create a slim strip of folded paper.

Step 4

Repeat steps 1-3 so you have two folded strips.

Step 5

Open out one of the folded strips and fold in half in the opposite direction. Open out again, refold along the original centre crease.

Step 6

To make the handle of the paper gun, use the second strip of paper to line up with the centre crease. Now fold the first strip of paper down at a 90-degree angle on the left side.

Step 7

Repeat the fold on the right side.

Step 8

Fold the handle in half along the centre crease. Now fold the second strip, the barrel of the gun, in half.

Step 9

Sandwich the handle of the paper gun, the first paper strip, in between the folds of the barrel paper.

Step 10

Then push the ends of the barrel papers underneath the folds of the handle. This will be a tight fit, so push slowly.

Step 11

Once pushed through, keep pulling on the paper ends until the middle folded section fits snugly together.

Step 12

Use a pair of scissors to cut out notches for the tip of the barrel and the top folds of the paper gun.

How to make a paper gun that shoots

Perhaps a toy to play with outdoors, you should now have your very own homemade paper gun that shoots. To make your craft shoot, place an elastic band or hair tie in the notches. To fire the elastic band or hair tie, pull on the bottom fold of the paper gun where a trigger would be. The elastic band should ping off.

DIY Easter Decorations: How to make Easter decorations at home

Esme Clemo — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 11:10:31 +0000

Give your home a spring lift with these easy-to-make DIY Easter decorations. It's simple to make Easter decorations at home and the kids will love getting involved with all the crafting too

Easter craft ideas are a great way to keep kids entertained during the Easter holidays. From felt animals to bunny picture frames, we’ve got a range of DIY Easter decoration ideas to suit all ages and skill levels.

Make sure you’re fully stocked with felt and card to get cracking on these egg-cellent ideas. After you’ve made some decorations, why not have a go at making our Easter baskets ready for that all important egg hunt? You could also hide these adorable Easter pom pom animals amongst the sweet treats for your kids to find.

For some of these projects, you'll need these printable Easter bunny and chick templates.

DIY Easter Decorations: Felt Easter chicks

Sew these sweet chicks as a lovely Easter gift for kids and adults this spring.

To make felt chick Easter decorations you will need:

Felt
Pinking shears
Scissors
Pins
Toy stuffing
Sewing machine
Black cotton

For crafts supplies, check out Baker Ross

How to make felt chick Easter decorations:

Using the templates, cut out two felt bodies using pinking shears, and two wings and one beak with regular scissors. Position the wings in-between the two body pieces and pin in place. Sew around the outer edge leaving a small gap at the bottom.
Place a little toy stuffing inside the chick, then sew up the bottom edge. Sew some eyes using black cotton, then sew or stick on a little beak.
Cut out two shells using regular scissors. Sew around the bottom edge, then cut the top with a pair of pinking shears so you have a cracked-egg look. Pop your chick inside.

DIY Easter Decorations: Felt Easter bunnies

Make a cute display with this family of soft pastel rabbits.

To make felt bunny Easter decorations you will need:

Felt
Scissors
Pins
Toy stuffing
Sewing machine
Glue

How to make felt bunny Easter decorations:

Using the templates, cut out one whole bunny (without legs) and two half bunnies (with legs) from the felt.
Place the half bunnies together and sew along the front edge. Make sure the seam is neat by trimming any wonky lines with sharp scissors. Place the sewn bunny on top of the whole bunny, seam side up, and pin in place.
Sew all the way around, leaving the bottom open. Then pad out with toy stuffing, then sew along the bottom edge, leaving the feet sticking out at the bottom. Avoid overfilling the bunnies or they will lose their shape.
Cut out a small heart and glue it in place on the front.

DIY Easter Decorations: Easter Storage Jars

Fill these DIY Easter storage jars with treats and give them as homemade Easter gifts. Once all of the chocolate is gone, the container can be put to good use to keep small items!

To make the Easter storage jars you will need:

Jam jars
Hot glue gun
Small plastic toys
Spray paint

How to make the Easter storage jars:

Clean the jam jars thoroughly, removing any sticky labels from the glass. Then use a hot glue gun to stick one toy onto the top of each lid.
Spray the lid with three or four light coats of paint. A few light coats are better than one or two thick ones, as it prevents the paint from running.
Leave the paint to dry a day or two before you fill the jars with sweet treats.

DIY Easter Decorations: Rabbit artwork

Decorate a corner of your home with these bright Easter bunny pictures.

To make the Easter frame decorations you will need:

Scalpel
Cutting board
Coloured card
Picture frame
Plain paper
Tissue paper
Paper tapes
Glue

How to make an Easter frame decoration:

Cut out the coloured card for your background to the same size as your frame backing. Position the rabbit template centrally on the card, draw around it, then cut it out.
Then on a piece of plain paper (cut to the same size as the picture frame backing), mark where the rabbit will be positioned.
Cut strips of coloured paper, tissue paper and paper tapes and layer them on the plain paper, so that they stretch further than the rabbit cut-out will sit.
Put your rabbit cut-out over the top of the paper, then pop it into the picture frame.

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Best Easter hampers Best Easter gifts for kids Best Easter baskets Best kids' Easter eggs Best vegan Easter eggs Best personalised Easter eggs Best online Easter eggs

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How to make Easter wreaths: DIY Easter wreath ideas

Esme Clemo — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Our step-by-step guides on how to make Easter wreaths show you how to make a DIY wreath for spring with a few Easter craft essentials, things you already have around your home or even fresh flowers and foliage picked from your own garden.

Wreaths shouldn't just be saved for the festive season. They make pretty decorations at any time of the year and these DIY Easter wreaths make lovely decorations for your wall or door, or you could give one as a thoughtful Easter gift for kids and adults.

If you're looking for ideas to entertain the kids during the holidays, why not let them help you make Easter wreaths? How sweet would one look hung on each child's bedroom door? A fun Easter activity, they'll love having their own project to work on. And, if you're lucky, it might even keep them out of trouble for half an hour.

How to make Easter wreaths with real flowers

Get green-fingered this Easter and learn how to make a wreath from the spring florals blooming in your back garden. The only thing you need is a rattan wreath to act as a base, then the rest you can forage from all around you.

This is a great project to get the whole family involved in. Kids will love finding and foraging for different plants and flowers for the wreath. If you can't get hold of any blooms, how about making paper flowers using our guide instead?

To make an Easter wreath with real flowers you will need:

Rattan wreath
Garden shears or flower scissors
Green foliage
Spring florals - we used Narcissus, Camellias and some flowering shrubs all from the garden
50cm ribbon

How to make an Easter wreath from flowers:

Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow

1. Begin by trimming down your foliage and flower clippings. The stems and branches should be no longer than 12cm. Strip off the foliage at the very end of the stems and branches. Starting with the green and leafy foliage, weave the branches into the rattan wreath. Focus the foliage in one third of the wreath, making sure to leave room in the middle of the leaves for the bigger blooms.

Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow

2. Add the flowering shrub cuttings to add some depth to the Easter wreath arrangement. Dot the blossom amongst the leaves in a random pattern.

Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow

3. Take one big blousy bloom in a bright colourful shade, in our case a pink flower from a Camellia, and position it in the centre of the foliage arrangement.

Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow

4. For that extra Easter addition, some daffodils or Narcissus woven into the wreath design makes the perfect finishing touch.

Credit: Esme Clemo/GoodToKnow

5. Take your ribbon and loop it around the top of the wreath, ready for hanging. Alternatively, simply tie into a bow and display the wreath propped up on a shelf or mantelpiece.

How to make Easter wreaths from egg boxes

Credit: Suzie Attaway

To make this DIY Easter wreath you will need:

Egg boxes
Scissors
Acrylic paints
Paint brush
Glue
Small pom poms
Green felt
Embroidery hoop
Hot melt glue gun
Wool or ribbon

Cut out 10 egg sections from the egg boxes with scissors to make the flowers.
Take five of the egg box pieces and neaten round the edges with scissors. Then snip around the edges and flatten slightly, creating flower shapes. Paint with acrylic paints and leave to dry.
Cut out the bottoms of the other five egg box pieces, and paint with acrylic paint. Leave to dry.
Stick the smaller flower pieces inside the larger ones, and glue a small pom pom in the middle to create 3D shapes. It’s nice to make them in a few different colours for contrast if you fancy it.
Cut out some green felt leaf shapes with some sharp scissors, and glue them to the bottom section of the embroidery hoop. Leave to dry again.
Once your leaves have stuck securely you can decorate with your cardboard flowers. Using a hot melt glue gun, carefully stick the egg box flowers on to the leaves. Leave to dry a final time, before hanging up with wool or ribbon.

How to make bunny ears: DIY bunny headband for Easter

Esme Clemo — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 09:39:36 +0000

This easy step-by-step guide shows you how to make bunny ears at home for Easter using a hairband, some felt and fabric scraps.

Stitch up this pair of Easter bunny ears for your little one. Made from a hairband and pretty fabric, it's a thrifty project that's quick to make in time for an Easter weekend filled with egg hunts.

An Easter craft idea for older kids, this simple technique for how to make bunny ears is a great Easter activity to keep kids busy over the Easter holidays. Plus, the result is so cute!

If you're looking for things to do with little children, you can get them involved with the gluing and sticking fun too. Or why not get them to help you make Easter cards or a lovely Easter basket. Both of these crafts are simple to make and can be used to gather up sweet treats during the highly anticipated Easter egg hunt!

How to make bunny ears

To make bunny ears at home you will need:

A plastic hairband
5 x 20cm piece of floral cotton fabric
Felt in peach or pink and grey or white
Pins
Sewing thread
Hand sewing needle
Scissors
Sewing machine
Hot glue gun

For sewing supplies, check out John Lewis & Partners

How to make a pair of Easter bunny ears:

Begin by folding the strip of floral cotton in half lengthways and with right sides together. Stitch close to the raw edges in a matching thread, turn right sides out, and then press.

2. Thread the floral cotton sleeve onto the plastic hairband until it's completely covered in fabric. Tuck the raw ends inside the floral cotton tub by about 1cm and wrap tightly around the hairband ends. Then use a hand sewing needle and some matching thread to secure the fabric ends in place.

3. From the peach or pink felt, cut out two small rectangles. Heat up the glue gun and apply the glue to one side of the rectangle. Wrap around the ends of the hairband and hold together until the glue has dried.

4. Cut out two large bunny ear shapes from the grey or white felt and two smaller ones from the peach or pink felt.

5. Using a sewing machine and some pink thread, stitch down the centres of the ears. Fold the ears along the stitch line and sew along the bottom edge to keep them in place. Making the Easter bunny ears 3D like this should help the ears to stand up and give them some character.

6. Use a glue gun to stick the bunny ears onto the Easter hairband. Or use a hand sewing needle and some thread to sew the bunny ears in place instead.

How to make an Easter bonnet

Esme Clemo — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Looking for an easy step-by-step for how to make an Easter bonnet? You're in the right place.

Learn how to make an Easter bonnet in four simple steps. This Easter bonnet tutorial is so easy that it's a perfect Easter craft for kids to help with. They will love getting creative with their own designs and decorations.

Most of the materials you need for this project can easily be bought on your next shopping trip. Try the Easter aisle for the mini-decorations. A fun activity for kids, you can let them pick their own decorations and personalise their Easter bonnets too.

A colourful selection of paper flowers to glue onto your Easter bonnet make an attractive decoration. Can't get hold of the wired paper flower? No worries! Use our how to make paper flowers guide to make your own instead.

How to make an Easter bonnet

To make an Easter bonnet you will need:

A bonnet or old sun hat
Large and small wired paper flowers
Easter egg nests
Fluffy chick decorations
Hot glue gun

You can buy a range of these Easter bonnet supplies from Poundland.

1. Begin by separating out the paper flowers. Place six large paper flowers around the brim of the bonnet. Push the wire through the woven fabric of the hat and push up towards the top of the hat. Heat up the hot glue gun and apply it to the wire on the inside of the bonnet to secure it in place.

2. Now add the small paper flowers amongst the larger blooms. Follow the instructions in step 1 to glue the flowers onto the Easter bonnet.

3. Take some mini Easter egg baskets, remove a couple of the eggs and replace them with some fluffy chicks. Glue gun to keep in position. Arrange on the brim of the bonnet at the end of the row of flowers and stick it down with the glue gun.

4. Position a couple of fluffy chicks amongst the flowers, as though they've just wandered out of the nest. Use your glue gun again to stick them down.

How to make Easter cards: A quick and easy Easter card idea to make with kids

Amy Hunt — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Get the kids stuck in to a lovely Easter project...

Wondering how to make Easter cards? These pretty Easter cards are easy to make with kids and are perfect for giving to friends and family this Spring!

We all love getting a letter in the post, but a handmade Easter egg card is extra special. So keep the kids busy over the holidays with Easter crafts and this easy-peasy, egg-cellent Easter card project.

Make sure you’re stocked up on coloured paper and glue so they can create a card for every member of your family. Plus, the same project can be used to make pretty hanging decorations if you fancy putting up an Easter tree this year.

If you love this make, why not try making an Easter wreath from egg boxes or learn how to make Easter baskets for your very own egg hunt in the garden. They’re all simple projects using bits and bobs from around the house, so you can save some pennies and still have fun.

For these makes you’ll need these Easter egg card templates, they can be printed off and used for the patterned paper and embellishments.

How to make Easter cards

To make a pair of cracking Easter egg cards you will need:

Card blanks
Dotty or patterned paper
Plain paper in pastel colours
Ribbon
Paper lace
Ricrac
Flower paper punch (optional)
Stick-on embellishments
Glue

Method

For the square card:

Following our photo as a guide, cut three different-sized squares from either spotty or plain paper. Then stick one on top of the other to the front of a 12.5cm square card blank. Or print off the dotty squares on the templates instead.
Trace off the medium egg template and cut from the thin pink card.
Stick lengths of ribbon and lace across the egg, trimming of edges to neaten.
Either cut out the template or use a paper punch to create two flowers, stick to the centre of the egg, then add a stick-on embellishment.
Finally, stick the decorated egg to the centre of the card.

For the egg card:

Trace the large egg template onto a piece of pink A4 card folded in half, ensuring one edge of the egg is against the fold.
Place horizontal strips of ribbon, ricrac and paper lace across the front. Once happy with the arrangement, stick in place.
Stick a large foam flower embellishment to the centre and either cut, or punch out, two smaller flowers from paper. Then add a pearly stick-on gem to the centre of each flower. Stick either side of the central flower.

Make Easter egg hanging decorations from your Easter egg card

Why not create some eggs-quisite DIY Easter decorations for an Easter tree with the same technique? Create a stunning centrepiece for your Easter table, using either a shop-bought tree or twigs sprayed white, and decorated with pretty, candy-coloured card eggs.

Simply trace the medium egg template and use it to cut out eggs from the pink, blue and white thin card. Then use a hole punch to make a hole about 5mm from the top of the egg. Using a selection of ribbon, ricrac and paper lace, position and then stick them horizontally across the front and back of each egg. Tie to the tree with a thin gingham ribbon.

Fun science experiments for kids to try at home

GoodtoKnow — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 17:50:00 +0000

These fun science experiments for kids are a great way to spend a rainy day.

Parents are always on the lookout for new and exciting things to do with kids - be that the latest kid's film on Netflix or some child-friendly arts and crafts. But what about something that's educational too?

These fun science experiments for kids are informative and the perfect antidote to screen time, allowing kids to get messy whilst learning some of the basic principles of science.

From an erupting at-home volcano to some seriously sticky slime, these experiments are both easy and safe, requiring ingredients already available in your kitchen cupboard.

So be sure to consider these fun at-home science tutorials for the upcoming Easter holidays...

Fun science experiments for kids

These fun science experiments for kids are sure to keep boredom at bay. And the perfect indoor activity for kids when the wet weather hits. But just to be safe, keep a responsible adult on hand to make sure that all these experiments are done safely.

Colour changing milk

Credit: Getty

This is a great way to teach children about colour mixing. You just need milk, food colouring and a squirt of washing up liquid. Use a cotton bud to swirl the colours and then enjoy the magic as the colours mix together.

Try it: Colour changing milk experiment

Elephant's toothpaste

This super fun experiment does require an ingredient that you might not have in your cupboard. But it's so easy to get, and your kids will be laughing about the results of this experiment for days to come! Warning: You might want to try this one outside.

Try it: Elephant's toothpaste by TheDadLab

Make your own play dough

Credit: Getty

Making your own play dough is one of the simplest science experiments out there. It's all about chemical reactions! The ingredients come together create a mixture, where they're physically combined but no reaction has happened. When the water and food colouring are added though, the mix forms a solution. Then the solution is heaped together and kneaded, which then forms a whole new substance because chemical reactions have taken place. How exciting!

Try it: Our best play dough recipe

Create your very own rainbow

Not only does this rainbow jar make a great addition to your home, but it also teaches children about density as the heavier layers fall to the bottom, creating the rainbow effect.

Try it: Rainbow jars experiment by Playdough to Plato

A volcanic eruption

https://youtu.be/rvuRtUNHBcU

This classic experiment will have your kids erupt with excitement, whilst teaching them all about the fascinating world of volcanoes. Using common cupboard items like vinegar, baking soda and washing up liquid, this experiment couldn't be simpler. Just be sure that children are supervised and standing a safe distance away when the action happens.

Try it: National History Museum's DIY Volcano

Bounce an egg

Credit: Getty

Pickle an egg in vinegar for several days and you'll be left with a transparent bouncy egg. Don't bounce it on your best carpet though, just in case it doesn't work...

Try it: Make a bouncy egg by The Chocolate Muffin Tree

Grow your own crystals

This science project shows how crystals are formed, and the end results taste pretty good as well. While they're easy to make, they do require a bit of patience - just keep reminding your kids that it will be worth it in the end!

Try it: Grow your own crystals by Happiness Is Homemade

Create giant gummy bears

Credit: Getty

Teach kids about osmosis with this super simple experiment. Drop some gummy bears in water and wait for them to grow.

Try it: Giant gummy bears by Mama Smiles

Make water go for a walk

This impressive looking experiment is very easy to set up - you just need some jars, food colouring and kitchen roll. It helps explain capillary action - how water ‘climbs' up to the top of plants and trees from their roots - in a totally visual way that most kids will get.

Try it: Walk on water by Coffee Cups and Crayons

Make your own slime

Credit: Getty

The ultimate fun experiment, demonstrating what happens when different chemical compounds react together - and also providing plenty of enjoyment after it's made.

All you need is PVA glue and some laundry detergent - Aldi's Almat Laundry Gel is apparently the best one to use.

Try it: How to make slime by Fun At Home With Kids

Ice Cream

https://youtu.be/_1tCdgal30Y

Have your kids learn about the millions of tiny ice crystals that make up their favourite frozen treat, then enjoy a tasty bowl afterwards.

This tutorial from the Science Museum will transform flavoured milk into a delicious ice cream flavour in five minutes and all without a freezer!

Try it: The Science Museum's Instant ice cream tutorial

Play with dip-dye

Credit: Getty

Dip-dying fabric is a great way to learn all about molecules and bones, as the dye bonds with the cotton on your fabric and actually becomes - or "bonds with" - the material. It will also teach your little one exactly why getting permanent pen marks out of ANYTHING is so difficult.

Try it: How to dip dye fabric

Need some more ideas to keep the kids busy? Why not try making one of these calming glitter jars?

How to make Easter baskets: Easy DIY Easter basket idea

Esme Clemo — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 12:39:19 +0000

Use our easy guide on how to make Easter baskets at home to make your very own DIY Easter basket this year with the kids.

If you're looking for things to do with the kids at home at the moment, then Easter crafts are a great way to keep them busy and celebrate the season at the same time. Little ones will love to make and decorate their very own Easter basket. Plus, once it's complete, it will be perfect for egg hunts in the garden or around the home.

All you need is an old carton, some coloured card and paper to make this super simple craft project. For a mess-free make, swap the pastel paper cutouts for stickers and use sticky tape instead of glue.

Once the basket has been decorated, it's time for the fun to begin. Simply order Easter eggs online to fill the baskets with at the end or leave clues around for your kids to find on an egg hunt.

How to make Easter baskets at home

To make an Easter basket at home you will need:

Old fruit tea box or similar sized cardboard box
Hole punch
Wired ribbon
Blue and green card
Pastel paper
Scissors
Glue stick

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

Cover an the old box with dotty paper. Punch a hole either side of the box and thread a length of wired ribbon through, knotting ends inside.
Use the large egg template (below) to cut 2 egg shapes slightly bigger than your box from blue card. You may need to enlarge or reduce the template depending on the size of your box.
Cut the bottom edge of the ‘eggs’, measuring them against the box, so that they sit flush.
Cut grass from thin green card, stick onto one of the egg shapes, trimming edges to neaten. From the pastel coloured paper, cut out a butterfly, flowers and a rabbit. Using our photo as a guide, arrange and stick to the tips of the grass.
Finally, glue each blue card egg either side of the box.

How to make a Mother's Day card for Mother's Day 2021

esme.clemo@ti-media.com (Esme Clemo) — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Make this floral Mother's Day greetings card for a special lady in your life.

Learn how to make a Mother's Day card with a quilling paper craft project that's easier to achieve than it looks with twisted strips of coloured paper, for a perfect DIY Mother's Day gift.

A homemade Mother's Day card is the perfect way to mark this special date. As lockdown will mean that Mother's Day celebrations will look a little different this year, send some love through the post with a gorgeous handmade card.

This papercraft version is created using a quilling technique where small strips of coloured paper are coiled and then pressed into shapes. It's the perfect way to create 3D petals and leaves. This craft is perfect for older children and adults, but we've also got loads of Mother's Day crafts for kids here too. So there are plenty of things to do with the kids to keep them engaged while doing something special for mum at the same time, including giving her a bit of peace and quiet while the little ones are crafting. This can help and avoid making her first Mother's Day a disaster like Goodto.com's Family Editor Stephanie Lowe had to experience.

How to make a Mother's Day card

To make a Mother's Day card you will need:

Green ink pen
Card blank
Slotted quilling tool
5mm x 54cm quilling paper strips in light green, green, pink, purple, yellow, red, and blue
Cocktail stick
PVA glue

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to make a Mother's Day card:

Start by quilling the green papers into leaves. Cut two green papers into 20cm lengths and one light green paper into 12cm lengths. Take each paper, place the end into the slotted tool, and twist it around into a coil.
Coil the entire length of paper and then release it from the tool. Allow it to unfurl slightly before squeezing into a leaf shape between your thumbs and forefingers. Apply glue to the loose end of the paper with the cocktail stick and glue in place. Allow to dry.
Cut two blue strips into five 18cm lengths, one pink strip into 9cm lengths, one purple, yellow and red strip into 15cm lengths. Repeat the quilling process to coil the papers. Leave the yellow coils round and shape the rest into teardrops between your fingers. Glue to secure.
On the card blank, use a green ink pen to draw a line of stems at varying heights. Arrange the quilled petals at the top to form flowers and place the leaves partway down the stem.
Apply glue to the underside of the quilled papers and push down onto the card. Allow to dry completely.

Best Christmas crafts for kids: Easy festive crafting ideas for families

lucy.buglass@futurenet.com (Lucy Buglass) — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 08:00:54 +0000

Christmas crafts for kids are a great way to get into the festive spirit and encourage children to get creative. Our easy Christmas crafts are great for toddlers and younger children to do. Plus, if you scroll down, we've got some crafting ideas for older kids too, to keep them entertained.

What better way to pass some chilly winter days than getting the whole family immersed in festive decorating? Not only does it save you the hassle of spending too much on Christmas decorations, it's also a lovely way to proudly display your children's artwork around the home. What's not to love?

We have plenty of great ideas for Christmas crafts for kids for 2021, along with out guide to the best craft advent calendars, so if you need inspiration, scroll down for our full list of Christmas crafting ideas. That should keep them busy when you're stocking up on top Christmas toys for the big day!

Best Christmas crafts for kids

Hand painted Christmas art

This Christmas art is a great way for little ones to get hands on - literally! Kids will love creating their own handprint wreath and it'll look lovely on display over the festive season. All you'll need is paper or canvas, paints, a pencil, a ruler and a willing pair of hands. How to make hand painted Christmas art.

Toilet Roll Santa

Put your empty toilet rolls to good use this festive season, and make an adorable Santa Claus! All you need is a cardboard loo roll, pom poms, glue, felt, a pipe cleaner, googly eyes, and anything else you might want to decorate your little Santa with. How to make a toilet roll Santa.

Toilet roll three kings

It's not Christmas without the three kings! It's so easy to make them out of empty toilet rolls, all you'll need is white, black and orange paper, skin-colour paint or pens, googly eyes, glue, patterned paper, glitter or gold card and scissors. How to make toilet roll three kings.

Handprint Rudolph

Kids as young as 3 can get involved making this fun reindeer craft, as it's super easy and all they need to do is draw around their hand. Adult supervision is required to carefully cut out the handprint, but other than that, kids will love getting involved in making this fun and simple Christmas craft, which can be used as a Christmas tree decoration. How to make handprint Rudolph

Handprint Christmas tree card

Handmade Christmas cards are a lovely way for little ones to spread some festive joy this season, and these make a lovely gift for family members! You can decorate it however you'd like, but we've gone for the classic sparkles and sequins. How to make handprint Christmas tree card

Snowman pencil topper

This pencil topper is a great way to add some festive fun to your child's stationary. It's very simple to make too, as all you need to do is wrap a white pipe cleaner around the top of a pencil and decorate it with a pom pom head, a ribbon scarf, glittering eyes, or whatever else takes their fancy! How to make snowman pencil topper

Snowmen tin can bowling pins

This fun craft doubles up as a Christmas game, and it's a fun way to make use of used tin cans and encourage your kids to get creative. To make these cute snowman bowling pins, you'll need paint, felt, glue, scissors, white paint, and any other decorations you might want. You could even challenge little ones to make the funniest face! How to make snowmen tin can bowling pins

Christmas tree pinecones

We recommend these cute pinecone trees for children age 5 and up, and once you've collected your pine cones, all you need to decorate them is green paint, some paint brushes, green glitter and air drying clay. They're a great way to decorate small spaces in the home, or they could even be a festive centrepiece for your table. How to make Christmas tree pinecones

Wooden spoon angel

Angels are a popular symbol of Christmas, and your children can make their very own angel by simply repurposing a wooden spoon. To bring this angel to life, alongside the spoon you'll need 2 silver pipe cleaners, 1 gold pipe cleaner, 2 white felt A4 sheets, 1 pink felt A4 sheet, 1 white paper plate and a pink ribbon. How to make wooden spoon angel

Christmas paper chains

With just three equipment, this paper chains craft couldn't be easier! With paper, scissors and glue, you and your little ones can get crafty and made your own festive bunting that make perfect decorations this festive season. You could even use leftover wrapping paper to make it super festive. How to make Christmas paper chains.

Stamped Christmas wrapping paper

If you don't fancy buying wrapping paper this year, you could always make your own! It's so easy to do and little ones will love adding a personal touch to gifting. Children will need adult supervision with this one - at least in the setting up stage so you can use the craft knife to create the potato stamp. All you'll need is brown paper, a festive cookie cutter, potato, craft knife, paint and a paper plate. Pop on some Christmas tunes and have fun! How to make stamped Christmas wrapping paper.

Best Christmas crafts for older kids

Cardboard reindeer head

Suitable for children age 9 and up, this cardboard reindeer head is an adorable and easy craft to make this Christmas. All you need is our free craft templates, some cardboard, a craft knife, a pencil, some scissors and decorations. You could even make several if you want all of Santa's reindeer! How to make cardboard reindeer head

Cardboard snowflake wreath

This clever craft transforms paper towels and toilet roll tubes into a pretty hanging cardboard snowflake wreath, which is a great way to use household supplies you'd otherwise throw away. All you need is some spray paint, a ribbon, and anything else you want to decorate it with. It's a great craft to make for all ages. How to make cardboard snowflake wreath

Christmas wreath cushion

Great for older children, this Christmas wreath cushion is inspired by The White Company and is a great activity to work on together this festive season. To make one, you'll need a sewing machine, cushion pad, felt, scissors and a pompom trim. It'll look lovely on your sofa over the Christmas period. How to make Christmas wreath cushion

Handmade Christmas card

Add a personal touch to your Christmas gifting with handmade Christmas cards. This is a great way to let your imagination run wild, and family are sure to appreciate all the hard work your children put in! Suitable for all ages, it's so easy to decorate your very own card. How to make a handmade Christmas card

Personalised clay decorations

Great for older kids, these easy-to-make hanging alphabet decorations will look lovely on your tree or other festive display this year. You could spell out a Christmas themed word, or the names of your children, or just initials. Time to get creative! How to make personalised clay decorations

Christmas star decorations

Another craft for older children, these star decorations can be sewn together to create festive bunting that you can put up around the house. You'll need a basic sewing kit, our star template, some felt, and you're ready to go! How to make Christmas star decorations

Origami Christmas trees

One of the most popular paper crafting techniques is origami, and these little Christmas trees will look lovely in your home this festive season. You'll only need three equipment too; A4 sheet of green stiff paper or card, scissors and a ruler or paper creasing tool! How to make origami Christmas trees

Toilet roll Christmas decorations

Stars are a popular choice for Christmas decorations, and there's a super simple way you and your little ones can make them out of toilet roll. These require scissors so they're best for older children, and they can be hung on the tree or other places in your home. How to make toilet roll Christmas decorations

Christmas patchwork decorations

Teach older children how to sew with these Christmas tree decorations. These are easily customisable as you can use scraps of any fabric, and they'll look lovely hanging on the tree this festive season. If you're short on time, there's even a quick sew tutorial. How to make Christmas patchwork decorations

How to make copper candles

Esme Clemo — Tue, 15 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Give your home a glow with these pretty metallic projects, including copper leaf pillar candles and cookie cutter tealights

Learn how to make your very own candles with a copper twist. Choose from making tealights from scratch by upcyling some copper cookie cutters or adding copper leaf to a set of pillar candles.

More into sparkles than metallics? Have a go at making these glittery Christmas candles instead. Or how about these terrazzo candle holders and candle jar crafts for some stylish upcycling projects.

How to make copper leaf candles

Create this simple centrepiece of copper candles to add instant wow to your table.

To make copper leaf candles you will need:

Pillar candles in shades of red and pink
Copperleaf sheets
Soft paintbrushes
Masking tape
Gilding adhesive

How to make copper leaf candles:

1. Remove any labels or wrappers from the pillar candles and brush with the soft paintbrush to remove any loose wax.

2. Apply the masking tape at an angle to the top of the candle to create a geometric shape left at the base.

3. Using one of the paintbrushes, apply some gilding adhesive to the base and allow to dry for as long as the manufacturer suggests.

4. Once tacky, delicately place a sheet of the copperleaf on top of the glue and gently lift away the paper backing. Continue, working around the candle until it’s been completely coated in copper foil. Allow to dry.

5. With a dry paintbrush, buff away at the copper to remove any loose pieces. Collect and store any loose flakes for future projects.

6. Remove the masking tape, place on a candle holder or stand, and light.

Create your own copper candle tealights in seasonal shapes and scents.

Soy wax flakes
Wax candle dye or old coloured crayons
Copper biscuit cutters
Pre-waxed wicks with metal bases
Saucepan
Baking tray
Greaseproof paper
Heatproof bowl
Essential oils
Thermometer
Wooden skewer

For some craft supplies, check out Wilko.

1. Fill the saucepan with water and bring to the boil, before turning down to a gentle simmer.

2. Place the heatproof bowl on top and pour in some wax flakes. Allow to melt and monitor the temperature with the thermometer.

3. Once the melted wax has reached 60 degrees C, add a couple of drops of essential oil and your wax dye or coloured crayons. Stir until combined.

4. Remove the bowl from the heat and allow to cool until it reaches 40 degrees C. At this point, it’s ready to pour.

5. While cooling, place a sheet of greaseproof paper onto the baking sheet and place the biscuit cutters on top. Position a wick in the centre of each one.

6. Carefully pour the wax into each mould, making sure to press down on the mould to create a seal around the base. Hold firmly down until the wax begins to harden. Prop up the wick in the centre with a wooden skewer rested across the top of the cutter.

7. Once set, remove the candles from the baking sheet and trim the wicks. You can now pop the candles out of the mould or keep the copper frames in place. Place on a heatproof dish or in a candle holder when burning.

How to make the three kings from toilet roll

Esme Clemo — Sat, 12 Dec 2020 06:00:32 +0000

Create your very own homemade nativity, including these festive three kings from toilet rolls, some patterned paper and googly eyes.

This is a great project for entertaining little ones. Once they’ve made the three kings from toilet roll, they’ll be ready to create all sorts of Christmas characters. Why not have a go at this toilet roll Santa?

Or take a look at our favourite things to make with toilet roll tubes, there’s sure to be something to spark your little one’s creativity. For something a little more festive, check out our best Christmas crafts for kids, they’ll be great entertainment over the holidays.

To make the three kings from toilet rolls you will need:

White, black and orange paper
Skin-colour paint or pens
Googly eyes
Glue
Patterned paper
Glitter or gold card
Scissors

For similar craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to make the three kings from toilet roll:

1. Begin by painting or colouring in the top third of the toilet roll in the skin-colour paints or pens. Allow to dry completely. If you don’t have any paints or pens to hand, you can leave the toilet roll as-is for a simpler and speedier make.

2. Cover the bottom two-thirds of the toilet roll with a piece of patterned paper. Glue in place and then allow to dry.

3. From the orange, white and black paper cut two 5-8cm strips. Cut along the bottom of one of the long edges, making sure to leave a 2cm strip uncut at the top. Use a pair of scissors to curl the ends of the strips.

4. Then glue one of the strips along the top of the patterned paper to make the beard and the other around the top for the hair, making sure to leave a gap for the face. Repeat for each of the toilet roll three kings.

5. From the same papers, cut a 2x5cm rectangle. Fold the paper in half and then draw on half a moustache shape. Use a pair of scissors to cut out and unfold to reveal a full moustache. Glue on the top of the beard paper.

6. Then add a pair of googly eyes to the top of the face.

7. Finally, cut a 3cm strip from the glitter or gold card and then cut a zigzag along one of the long sides. Secure around the top of the toilet roll, and repeat for each of the three kings. Line up your row of three kings made from toilet roll, ready to display at Christmas time.

How to make an origami Christmas tree

Esme Clemo — Sat, 12 Dec 2020 06:00:06 +0000

If you're wondering how to make an origami Christmas tree then you've come to the right place! Follow our simple step-by-step guide below.

It’s hard to find crafts to keep older kids entertained, but these origami Christmas trees are sure to get them in the Christmas spirit. Once they’ve mastered the simple origami technique, your house will be full of these Christmas tree decorations.

Have a go at changing the size of paper to create huge or tiny variations. Small origami Christmas trees make great place settings for a Christmas table. Change up the colour of the paper too for each guest.

Looking for more Christmas crafts for kids to get them creating and keep them busy over the holidays? Take a look at these Christmas tree cards, stitched Christmas tree decorations, or wooden Christmas ornaments.

To make an origami Christmas tree you will need:

A4 sheet of green stiff paper or card
Scissors
Ruler or paper creasing tool

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to make an origami Christmas tree:

1. Fold the paper along the diagonal and cut away the excess.

2. Open out the square of paper and fold in the opposite direction.

3. Then, open out the square of paper and fold again, not along the diagonal this time.

4. Tuck two of the opposite diagonal creases in on themselves and flatten the paper to form a square shape. Fold the edges in on themselves to form a triangle. Repeat on both sides. Use a ruler or creasing tool to help make your folds accurate and sharp.

5. Snip off the bottom of the origami Christmas tree.

6. Open out the centre folds and then tuck the creased edge in on itself so the front of the Christmas tree is flat.

7. Then use a pair of scissors to make two cuts along the folded sides of the origami Christmas tree.

8. Fold the top of the cuts back on themselves to form a traditional Christmas tree shape. Remember to use a ruler or paper creasing tool to help you.

9. Once all the cuts have been folded, spread out the paper folds to form a 3D Christmas tree decoration.

How to make toilet roll Christmas decorations

Esme Clemo — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 11:50:17 +0000

If you're wondering how to make toilet roll Christmas decorations that don't look like, well, toilet roll, then we've got the perfect craft for you.

Probably not the first place you’d look for festive inspiration but, if you’re on a budget or an eco-warrior, you'll love making these toilet roll Christmas decorations. Turning your unwanted toilet roll tubes into these colourful Christmas decorations is a great way to combat waste whilst decorating your home. Plus, they make wonderfully fun Christmas crafts for kids to keep them busy.

Paint these star-shaped hangers in your favourite Christmas colours, we’ve done ours in a folk-style red, mustard and teal. But they’d look great painted in metallic gold and silver or a traditional red and green.

There’s plenty of other things you can make with your leftover toilet roll tubes, like this fun and festive toilet roll Santa. Haven’t been saving your old toilet rolls? Learn how to make paper chains or a snowmen bowling set from tin cans instead.

To make Christmas decorations from toilet roll tubes you will need:

Old toilet roll tubes
Paint
Paintbrush
Pencil and ruler
Scissors
Ribbon

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to make Christmas decorations from toilet roll tubes:

1. Begin by painting your toilet roll tubes on the inside and outside. Make sure to choose contrasting colours so your Christmas decorations really stand out. Allow to dry completely.

2. Then using the pencil and ruler, measure the length of the toilet roll tube and mark two lines 1cm wide at the centre. Draw the lines all the way around the toilet roll tubes.

3. With the scissors, snip from one of the bottom edges right up to the closest centre line, continue cutting around the base at 1.5cm intervals. Repeat for the top section.

4. Then cut the strips into pointed triangles, it will begin to resemble a crown. Make sure to keep the off-cuts of the painted card - it makes great confetti to decorate your Christmas table with.

5. Fold the triangle pieces back on themselves, making sure to crease the cardboard so they stay in a star shape.

6. Add some ribbon around the centre of your Christmas decoration and tie in a knot ready to hang from your Christmas tree, wreath or garland.

How to make a handprint Christmas tree card

Esme Clemo — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 06:00:12 +0000

There’s nothing like receiving a handmade Christmas card, especially one that’s made by your kids or grandkids. Make their Christmas day even more special with this handprint Christmas tree card version, a simple craft that will keep the kids entertained during the holidays.

It’s quick to make and doesn’t involve too much mess, just some sparkly sequin fun, and a little PVA glue.

We’ve stuck to traditional gold and silver sequins for our handprint Christmas tree card, but use whatever craft bits you already have lying around the house for an inexpensive way to keep the kids occupied for an afternoon. Run out of crafting supplies? Try out this simple stamped Christmas wrapping paper instead.

Want to get even more hands-on? Swap the sequins for finger-prints, simply press thumbs and fingers into paint before dabbing all over the handprint Christmas tree card cutout like baubles. Check out our other festive handprint craft ideas, like these Christmas canvases and reindeer card.

To make a hand-print Christmas tree you will need:

A4 sheet of green card
Pen
Scissors
Sequins
Glue
Glue brush
Gold glitter card or star sequin

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to make a hand-print Christmas tree:

1. Fold the A4 sheet of green card in half. Ask your child to place their hand, palm down, onto the green card with their thumb lined up with the folded edge of the card.

2. Draw around the outside of their hand with a pen. Then draw a point at the top where their wrist was.

3. Cut out the hand shape, making sure to keep the folded edge of the card intact as this is what forms the Christmas card.

4. Dollop some glue onto the Christmas tree using a glue brush and place the sequins on top to look like baubles. Make sure you’ve popped an apron or overalls on your kids and protected your surfaces because this is probably going to get messy!

5. Glue a star sequin at the top or cut a star shape from some gold glitter paper instead. Open the card and write your Christmas message inside.

How to make a floral Christmas wreath

Esme Clemo — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Give guests a festive greeting with a fresh flower Christmas wreath hung on your front door

Making your own floral Christmas wreath is easy with our step-by-step photo guide. Forage around your garden for foliage and berries to keep costs down. Or replace the roses with flowers growing in your garden to save a trip to the florist. How about adding pinecones to create your homemade Christmas wreath.

For a longer lasting arrangement, swap the florals for these paper flowers instead.

While you're wreath-making, give the kids some extra pinecones to create their own Christmas tree decorations.

To make a floral Christmas wreath you will need:

Oasis wreath ring (31cm)
Five large red roses
Spray roses
Spruce and pine
Eucalyptus parvifolia
Myrtle or pistache foliage
Ivy or holly or ruscus
Red berries
Mini gold baubles
Green florist’s wire
Florist’s scissors
Wire cutters
Buckets
Cut-flower food (Optional)
Craft knife

For similar craft supplies, check out Wilko.

How to condition the flowers and foliage for your Christmas wreath:

Remove all the packaging and ties from the foliage and flowers, then snip away the bottom of the stems by about 5cm and remove any outer petals from the roses that are looking lacklustre. Next, fill the buckets with some water and a little cut-flower food if needed. Strip any leaves from the bottom half of the stems, so no foliage or flowers sit in the water. Then place the foliage and flowers in the water and leave to acclimatise. So long as the pine and spruce are kept cool and dry, you don’t need to put them into the water buckets.

How to make a floral Christmas wreath:

Step 1

Fill a large bucket with water and place the Oasis ring on top, allowing it to soak up the water for two minutes. Then remove from water and, using a craft knife, cut away the edge of the inner and outer ring. This will help soften the arrangement. If hanging the wreath, knot florist’s wire in a loop at the top.

Step 2

Begin with the spruce and pine cuttings. Snip them down to 15cm length pieces and remove any leaves from the bottom 5cm. Then push the pine and spruce into the foam, spacing them out so that there’s plenty of gaps in between each of the pieces.

Step 3

Working with small pieces of leafy foliage, like the eucalyptus, ivy or myrtle, fill the gaps in between the pine and spruce. Vary the size of the leaves to add some interest, making sure to cover the outer sides and inner ring, too.

Step 4

With five large roses, arrange where you’d like the big blooms to go by placing them evenly around the wreath. Once happy with the position, cut the stems right down to about 8cm and push into the foam.

Step 5

Cut the spray roses to a similar length and push clusters of one, two or three buds into the foam in between each of the larger roses. Make sure to use a mixture of fully bloomed and closed rose heads for variety.

Step 6

Arrange a mixture of large and small berries all the way round the wreath, keep the larger berries in the centre of the ring and dot the smaller berries around the edges to add colour to the foliage.

Step 7

Thread some florist’s wire through the hanging loops of the gold baubles and twist to secure. Position the baubles among the spray roses, pushing the wires into the Oasis foam to secure. Then attach the hanging wire to your front doorknocker or add a piece of ribbon to the top for a traditional look.

How to make Christmas patchwork decorations

Esme Clemo — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Sew up a set of stylish patchwork decorations for your tree this Christmas

Give your Christmas tree a homemade touch with these patchwork decorations. Pop on some Christmas tunes and spend an afternoon stitching away. If you're short on time, have a go at our quick-sew version listed below instead.

While your sewing machine is out of storage, take a look at our other Christmas stitching ideas to give your home a festive feel. Have a go at making a quick-sew stocking, a Christmas cushion or a Christmas sack ready for Christmas Eve.

How to make patchwork decorations

To make Christmas patchwork decorations you will need:

Patterned fabric scraps
Silver cotton fabric
Twine
Velvet ribbon
Stuffing
Cutting mat
Quilter’s ruler
Rotary cutter
Scissors
Matching thread
Hand sewing needle

For sewing supplies, check out John Lewis & Partners.

How to make Christmas patchwork decorations:

NOTE: Use 1/4in seam allowances throughout and always sew with fabrics right sides together.

1. Using the cutting mat, quilter’s ruler, and rotary cutter, trim the patterned fabric scraps into 1¾ x 5in rectangles. For one tree, you need two rectangles. Cut diagonally across the rectangles. Remember to cut in opposite directions on each colour so the triangles pair up.

2. Cut the silver fabric into 1in strips. Then cut into four 6in strips for the sides and two 4in strips for the bottom of the tree.

3. Pin one 6in strip to the diagonal edge of one of the triangles and sew together. Press seams open. Return to the cutting mat and rotary cut to neaten the edges. Repeat until you have four pieces.

4. Place two triangles together along the straight edge and sew. Press seams open and then neaten up the bottom edge.

5. Sew the last 4in strip onto the bottom edge and, again, neaten on the cutting mat.

6. Take a 6cm piece of ribbon and fold in half. Cut a 12cm piece of twine. Pin the two Christmas trees together, sandwiching the twine inside at the top and the folded ribbon at the bottom.

7. Sew all the way around, making sure to leave a small gap on one of the diagonal sides for turning through. Turn right sides out and press.

8. Fill the decoration with stuffing. Turn the raw edges of the gap under by 1/4in and slipstitch closed.

How to make quick-sew Christmas decorations

If you’re short on time, these Christmas trees are a simple and speedy alternative.

To make quick-sew Christmas decorations you will need:

Patterned fabric scraps
Thin wadding
Twine
Velvet ribbon
Matching sewing thread
Paper and pencil
Scissors

How to make quick-sew Christmas decorations:

1. On a folded piece of paper, draw out a Christmas tree shape and cut out. Open out to reveal the pattern template.

2. Fold the patterned fabrics wrong sides together. Pin the template on top and cut out. Once all the fabric has been cut out, trim down the templates by 5mm and use to cut out the wadding.

3. Sandwich a piece of wadding in between the fabric layers, slip a folded 10cm piece of twine in the top and pin. Fold a 5cm piece of velvet ribbon in half and pin in between the layers at the base.

4. Stitch all the way around the tree decoration, about 5mm from the edge. You can use a zigzag stitch if you have a little more time. Tie off the thread ends and trim the fabric edges to neaten.

How to make wooden Christmas decorations

Esme Clemo — Thu, 03 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Make your own wooden decorations this Christmas with foraged twigs from your garden

These natural wooden Christmas decorations are so quick to make and you can even find some of the materials in your own back garden. Have a hunt around your garden for wooden twigs and sticks you can use for this project. Just make sure it’s all completely dried out before you begin.

Looking for more craft projects to get you in the festive flow? Take a look at these simple Christmas paper chains or gingerbread tree decorations. Or for an extra special decoration or personalised gift, have a go at making these air-dry clay alphabet Christmas decorations.

Wooden twig tree decorations

To make wooden twig tree decorations you will need:

Wooden star decorations
Hot glue gun
Drill and 5mm drill bit
30cm 4mm thick wooden dowel
8cm wide log slice
1.5cm thick wooden twigs
Small coping saw
Sandpaper
Ruler

For craft supplies, check out Wilko.

How to make wooden twig tree decorations:

1. Drill a 5mm hole into the base of the log slice. Slip the 4mm thick wooden dowel into the hole.

2. Fill the hole with glue from a hot glue gun and allow to dry. Make sure to hold the dowel upright as the glue sets.

3. Taking the thick wooden twigs and coping saw, chop off a 5cm length piece. Drill a 5mm hole through the very centre lengthways, sand down the ends and slip onto the dowel. Push the twig all the way down to the bottom of the base to create the trunk of the tree.

4. For the horizontal twigs, use the coping saw to cut the thick twigs into smaller and smaller pieces. Start at 15cm and graduate down to 4cm. Sand down the rough edges.

5. Once cut, drill a 5mm hole through the centre widthways. Slip onto the central dowel, stacking up the pieces in size order.

6. At the top, hot glue gun a small wooden star to either side of the empty dowel to hide the raw dowel end.

7. Repeat to create the smaller tree too, cutting the central dowel down to 18cm before gluing to the base.

Wooden star decoration

To make the wooden star decoration you will need:

Five 1.5cm thick wooden twigs cut to 25cm long
Hot glue gun
Red twine
Bodkin or large tapestry needle
Jingle bells
Scissors

How to make a wooden star decoration:

1. Using our photograph as a guide, position the five branches into a star shape.

2. Heat up the glue gun and stick the ends together with a small amount of glue. Allow to dry completely.

3. Wrap the twine over the top of the glue to secure the joins. Thread the bodkin or needle with the twine and slip in between the wrappings to secure the ends. Trim off the excess.

4. Cut three short lengths of twine and thread the jingle bells onto the ends. Knot to secure. Use the bodkin or needle again to slip the twine through the wrapped joint and hold the bells in place.

5. Wrap a short length of twine around the top and knot to create a hanging loop.

Wooden beaded garland decoration

To make a wooden beaded garland decoration you will need:

Red twine
Two sizes of wooden beads
Wooden star decorations with hanging hole in top
Bodkin or large tapestry needle
Scissors

How to make a wooden beaded garland decoration:

1. Cut the red twine to your chosen garland length. Knot one end to create a hanging loop.

2. Thread the other end through the bodkin or needle and begin pushing the beads onto the twine.

3. Once you’ve threaded on three beads, continue with a star, then another three beads, then another star, and then six beads. Continue in this pattern until you reach the last 15cm of the twine.

4. Knot the end to form a hanging loop and spread out the beads and stars evenly along the garland.

How to make stamped Christmas wrapping paper

Esme Clemo — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000

All you need is a potato, a cookie cutter and some paint to create your own unique Christmas wrapping paper

Don't stop at decorating the tree, make the presents underneath just as stylish as the rest. Stamped Christmas wrap is so easy to make, so get the kids involved with this one in the run-up to the big day. Pop on some classic Christmas tunes and get crafting. Finish off your presents with these Christmas gift tags too.

For the eco-conscious or those seeking a budget-friendly alternative to the expensive foiled wrapping paper that floods the market at this time of year, this craft is sure to suit your needs. Want more inspiration? Check out our other Christmas gift wrapping ideas.

Short on time but still want your gifts wrapped up in something stylish? Take a look at the best Christmas wrapping paper you can buy.

How to make stamped Christmas wrap:

It's super simple to make your own star-print Christmas wrap.

To make stamped Christmas wrap you will need:

Brown paper
Festive cookie cutter
Potato
Sharp knife
Paint
Paper plate

For similar craft supplies, check out Wilko.

How to make stamped Christmas wrap:

1. Begin by cutting the potato in half, you'll need to use quite a large potato that fits the size of your cookie cutter.

2. Position your festive cookier cutter on the cut side of the potato. Press the cookie cutter into the potato by about 1cm. Using the knife, cut away at the potato around the cookie cutter. This should be done by an adult.

3. Remove the cookier cutter to reveal the potato stamp left behind. Repeat on the other potato half with a different cookie cutter shape. We've made our Christmas wrap with star cookie cutters but there are lots of festive shapes to try, how about a Christmas tree, a bell, a candy cane, an angel or a snowflake?

4. Pour some paint onto a paper plate and place the potato stamps into the paint. Unroll the brown paper and begin stamping with your Christmas shapes. Allow to dry completely before using the Christmas wrap to cover your presents.

How to make a stamped Christmas sack:

If you love the stamped Christmas wrap idea, why not make a stamped Christmas sack to match? You can use an old pillowcase for this upcylcing idea too!

To make a stamped Christmas sack you will need:

Housewife pillowcase
Seam ripper
Matching sewing thread
Pins
Bobble trim
Ribbon
Festive stencil
Chalk paint
Potato
Cookie cutter
Cardboard
Knife
Paper plate

How to make a stamped Christmas sack:

1. Begin by turning a housewife pillowcase inside out. Open up a side hem by about 4cm from the top. Fold both raw edges back in on themselves and stitch in place.

2. To create a drawstring channel, fold down the top of the pillowcase all the way around, pin in place and stitch all around. Turn right sides out.

3. Pin the bobble trim around the top, with the braid on the top of the newly formed channel, bobbles facing upwards. Sew in place, then fold down the channel to hide the braid and allow the bobbles to dangle below.

4. Thread a ribbon through the channel – or do as we did and make a braid from fabric from another pillowcase with a bobble sewn at each end.

5. Use a cookie cutter to create a stamp in the potato (follow the instructions above). Pour some chalk paint onto the paper plate and dip your stamp into it. Slot some cardboard in between the fabric layers and then begin stamping with your festive design.

Halloween crafts for kids: How to make halloween decorations, halloween music and more

Lucy Buglass — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Double, double, toil and trouble! Halloween is nearly here and with it the opportunity to be really creative with some fun and scary craft activities.

Halloween crafts for kids are a great way to get in the mood for spooky season! Forget Halloween movies for kids and adults that might give them nightmares and don't worry about not being able to take them trick or treating if your local area is in lockdown.

These Halloween crafts for kids are much more fun (and cheaper!) than going to the shops to buy some and they'll be totally unique. Plus, you can do them safely and easily at home. So it doesn't matter if you need to stay at home or the bad weather is keeping you indoors.

From spooky ghosts to flickering pumpkin lanterns, witches' hats and gory gooey eyeballs - we've got plenty of Halloween craft ideas below. We've also got loads of step-by-step guides to make it easy for you to try and of these different crafts with your kids.

Make a weekend of your spooky celebrations and get cosy with crafts at home with the family...

Easy Halloween crafts for kids

Halloween plant pot spiders

Spiders don't have to be scary! These cute plant pot versions can be given their own personalities with different facial expressions. Such a quick and easy craft! See our how-to here: Halloween plant pot spiders.

Paper plate Halloween masks

You don't need to buy your Halloween masks when making your own is this easy! Just pick up some paper plates and let your imagination run wild! See our how-to here: Paper plate Halloween masks

Cotton bud skeleton

Make a whole family of earbud skeletons with a pile of scary bones. And is that blood splattered or red paint about the place? See the how-to here: Cotton bud skeleton.

How to make Halloween lanterns

Get your little monsters to make these - there's no messy pumpkin to carve, just paint, sticky tape, jam jars and toilet roll and a spooky flickering light to welcome your trick or treaters. How to make Halloween lanterns.

Spooky leaves

If you're short of cash this Halloween but want to make some fun decorations, these ghastly ghouls can be found in the park! All you need are some dried leaves, white paint and a black marker pen. Oh and a wicked imagination... How to - Spooky leaves.

Egg carton eyeballs

Are you being watched? Send a chill down your guests' spines with bloodshot eyeballs following their every move. How to make Egg carton eyeballs.

Harry the Halloween ghost

Catch something out of the corner of your

eye, but when you look there's nothing there? Well Harry our Halloween ghost might not be able to disappear, but he'll certainly give you the spooks. BOO! Harry the Halloween ghost- how to.

Lollipop spiders

A house that's crawling with spiders? Ewwwwwwww. Hang on, though - they're edible. Edible spiders. Ewwwwwwww. How to - Lollipop spiders.

Bertie the Halloween bat

Watch out for the vampire bat flapping around your head! He's come to steal your blood for his dinner. Don't be scared, though. This little fella is made out of a sock! How to - Bertie the Halloween bat.

Wanda the witch

What a wicked old witch our Wanda is. Perhaps we should've called her Spoona, as that's what she's made out of, but that's not quite as Halloweeny, is it? How to - Wanda the witch.

How to make a pumpkin bag

What are your kids going to be collecting all their treats in? This pumpkin won't be the only one smiling if you help them make their very own Halloween pumpkin bag. How to make a pumpkin bag.

Bat mobile

Everyone has a coat hanger at home so turn one of yours into a brilliant Halloween mobile - perfect for a child's bedroom or outdoor decoration. How to - Bat mobile.

Halloween face paint ideas

Get really creative with face paints this Halloween! Whether you want to perfect Frankenstein's scars or need help with Vampire's fangs, check out our brilliant step-by-step guides. Check out all of our Halloween face paint ideas here.

Halloween music for kids

When you're getting crafty, you might want to put on some spooky music to get into the Halloween spirit! Thankfully there's loads of playlists on Spotify for to choose from like Kids Halloween Party, Kids Halloween Songs, and Halloween Hits for Kids.

These playlists include iconic songs like the Addams family theme, Monster Mash, and Thriller. These spine tingling tunes are sure to get everyone excited for the upcoming celebrations!

How to make coasters from scrabble tiles

Esme Clemo — Thu, 20 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Pop a hot brew on one of these fun and thrifty coasters made with scrabble tiles from the iconic board games

Upcycle a set of wooden scrabble tiles into a set of homemade coasters, personalised with your favourite words and phrases.

We’ve chosen to make our coasters with romantic sayings but you can choose anything to suit your coffee table style. Make yours with the names of your family members or a simple alphabet will look just an impactful. Or how about using numbered tiles as a keepsake of a special date or anniversary?

You don't just have to use letter tiles either, any square or rectangle-shaped craft material can be used like buttons. But a neutral wooden tile will suit any colourway in your home, or bold and bright coloured buttons will make a statement in any room.

Whatever colour and material you use, this is a great project to update a coffee table or bedside table without blowing your budget.

We have plenty more thrifty tableware craft ideas too, so why not have a go at making a set of knotted coasters, stitching a placemat or sewing a tablecloth for your next DIY project?

You will need:

Cork sheet
Wooden scrabble tiles
Craft knife
Cutting mat
Ruler
Pencil
All-purpose adhesive
Clear matt varnish
Paintbrush

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to make scrabble coasters:

1. Measure four of the wooden tiles alongside each other to find out the size of the square coaster. Transfer these measurements to the cork using a ruler and pencil.

2. With the cork positioned on the cutting mat, use the ruler and cutting knife to cut out the coaster squares.

3. Arrange your chosen letters on top of the cork and once happy with the design, fix in place with the all-purpose glue.

4. Once dry, apply a coat of clear varnish with a paintbrush to help protect the tile pieces for longer. Leave to dry completely before using.

How to make a terrazzo candle holder

Esme Clemo — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 14:00:00 +0000

Update an old candle holder with this simple patterned terrazzo effect

Making an on-trend terrazzo candle holder is so simple with this easy modelling-clay method. All you need is a little imagination when rolling out your clay into a pattern that mimics traditional terrazzo.

Plus, this is a great way to upcycle an old candle holder that might otherwise have been thrown away. Give your garbage a new lease of life with this quick and simple technique.

For more candle ideas, how about making these personalised tealight holders, autumn leaf lanterns, or for something a little more glam and festive, these Christmas candle crafts are a must-make!

You will need:

An old candle holder
Fimo soft modelling clay in White, Cognac, Chocolate, Grey and Sahara
Baking parchment
Cutting mat
Rolling pin
Craft knife
Baking tray
Candle

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to make a terrazzo candle holder:

1. Make sure the old candle holder is completely clean and free from any leftover wax. Wash with hot, soapy water and dry well.

2. Sandwich the white modelling clay between two pieces of baking parchment. Position on the cutting mat to protect your surfaces and roll out the clay into a rectangular shape.

3. Keep rolling out the clay until you have a 4mm-thick rectangle. Remove the top layer of baking parchment. Tear small pieces from the other coloured clays and scatter these on top of the white rectangle in a random pattern.

4. Replace the parchment and continue to roll out the clay until it is 3mm thick and the coloured clays are embedded into the white clay in a terrazzo pattern.

5. Remove the parchment and wrap the clay around the candle holder. Trim the edges with the craft knife.

6. Put the covered candle holder on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake in a preheated oven, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the clay.

7. Once baked, allow to cool completely before putting the candle inside the candle holder.

How to make an oven glove

Esme Clemo — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Use up your stash of fabric scraps for this patchwork project

Make an oven glove to match your kitchen decor. Simply collect up some fabric scraps from your craft stash to create the patchwork style of this kitchen accessory.

Once you've sewn this oven glove, have a go at our other kitchen sewing projects. Like these appliqué pot holders, coastal kitchen accessories, and this sweet child's apron.

You will need:

Rotary cutter
Quilter’s ruler
Cutting mat
Teal fabric scraps
14 x 35in piece of teal fabric
Thermal batting
Matching sewing thread
Hand-sewing needle
Pink patterned bias binding
Circular side plate
Pencil

For craft supplies, check out John Lewis & Partners

How to make an oven glove:

1. Using the rotary cutter, quilter’s ruler and cutting mat, cut the teal fabric scraps into 42 strips, each measuring 1½ x 7in. Join seven of the strips together along the long sides, leaving a ¼in seam allowance. Repeat with another seven strips for the mitts, then sew the remaining strips together for the main panel.

2. Cut the large piece of teal fabric into one 7 x 35in and two 7 x 8¾in rectangles. Repeat for the thermal batting, following the manufacturer’s instructions for how many layers you will need for an oven glove.

3. Layer the patchwork pieces with the matching teal fabric and batting, sandwiching the batting between the fabrics with the right sides facing out.

4. Along one of the long edges of each mitt, sandwich the raw edge with bias binding. Pin and topstitch to secure.

5. Place the mitts at each end of the main panel with all the patchwork sides facing up and pin the layers together.

6. Using a circular plate, round off each end of the oven glove, tracing the curve onto the fabric with a pencil, then rotary cutting the excess away.

7. With a small zigzag stitch, sew all the outer edges together to secure the layers.

8. Open out the bias binding and pin around the edge of the oven glove with the raw edges aligned. Sew with a ¼in seam allowance. Fold the binding to the back of the oven glove to enclose the raw edge. Then, using the matching thread and hand-sewing needle, slip stitch the binding in place.

How to upcycle a set of tins

esme.clemo@ti-media.com (Esme Clemo) — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Transform colourful kitchen containers into an eye-catching clock, a set of matching candles or a stylish kitchen storage solution

Learning how to upcycle tins couldn't be simpler! So, go to war on waste in your home with this fantastic upcycling project to turn kitchen tins into useful accessories. From candles to clocks, these innovative makes are sure to inspire.

Want to start upcycling around the rest of your home? How about an upcycled bench for your garden, a fresh look for your bedside table or wallpapered chest of drawers?

All lit up

Fill small tins with wax to create a row of retro candles.

You will need:

Decorative metal tins
Large saucepan
Smaller saucepan or clean, dry, empty tin can
Paraffin candle wax pellets (medium melt point)
Long-handled metal spoon
Preserving thermometer (optional)
Candlewick with metal tab base
Small glass jug
Metal skewers

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to upcycle tins into candles:

1. Make sure the tin is clean and dry. Make a double boiler by filling a large saucepan halfway full with water and putting a smaller saucepan or an empty tin food can inside. No water should be in the smaller pot.

2. Empty some wax pellets into the top of the double boiler and set the heat on high. Stir the wax with the metal spoon frequently as it heats. Monitor the temperature of the wax with a preserving thermometer if using; the melting point for paraffin wax is around 53-54°C.

3. Position a wick in the base of each tin then, using a jug, pour in the hot liquid wax. Fill to the brim, then secure the wick in the centre by placing a skewer on either side of it, resting on top of the tin. Before the wax sets completely, pierce any bubbles that appear and top up with more wax.

Time for tea

Turn a treasured tin into a clock for the mantelpiece or a shelf.

You will need:

Decorative metal tin
Electric drill
Metal drill bit – see clock mechanism instructions for a specific size
Block of wood
Coarse grit sandpaper
Quartz clock mechanism for craft projects

How to upcycle a tin into a clock:

1. Choose the position on your tin lid where you wish the clock hands to be and mark this. Using the drill, and with the lid supported on a block of wood, drill the required hole in the lid from front to back. File away any sharp edges at the back of the lid using the sandpaper.

2. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, assemble the clock in the correct order, with the mechanism behind the lid and the hands on the top. Put the hour hand in place first, followed by the minute and second hands, and secure with the small dome-head screw.

3. Ensure the hands can move freely over each other by viewing from the side and using your fingers to manipulate the hands gently. Put the battery in the mechanism box, set the correct time, and replace the lid onto the tin base. Stand securely on a shelf or drill another hole in the back of the tin to hang it on a wall.

Upcycled tin kitchen helper

Brighten up a kitchen corner and keep essential equipment to hand with this striking utensil holder.

You will need:

Decorative metal tins
Tape measure
Pencil
Electric drill
Screw-in cup hooks
Nylon Rawlplugs
Two pieces of 18 x 38mm timber batten, see step 2 for cut length
Small metal drill bit
Wood drill bit
Six 25mm-long screws
Two 60mm-long screws
Screwdriver

How to upcycle tins into utensil holders:

1. To add a hanging hook, measure and mark the centre of the tin base. Using a drill and a small bit suitable for metal, drill a small hole at this point. Hold a Rawlplug on the inside of the tin and screw a cup hook in from the outside: the Rawlplug will grip the hook and stop it becoming loose when utensils are hung from it.

2. To secure a pair of tins to the wall, drill two parallel holes in the back of each tin, approximately a third of the way down. Cut two pieces of timber batten the width of the two tins. In one batten, drill four holes in the 38mm face of the timber that line up with the four holes in the back of the tins. Then drill two long holes in the same piece of timber in the 18mm face, placing one close to each end. Screw this batten onto the back of the tins using Rawlplugs on the inside to grip the screws.

3. Drill two holes in the 38mm face of the second batten. Position the second batten on the wall and fix it in place by drilling holes in the wall to match and using screws and Rawlplugs. Rest the batten at the back of the tins on top of the wall batten and secure in place with the long screws in the two outer holes.

How to make a pyrography board

Esme Clemo — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Try pyrography, a wood-burning technique, that can transform a plain wooden accessory into something stylish

Pyrography, a wood-burning technique, is a slow and therapeutic craft that you can use to create stylish designs on wooden or leather accessories. Follow our step-by-step tutorial to create your own personalised wooden creations.

You can complete this project in an afternoon, but it does take some patience to allow the tool to heat up and cool down, so try not to rush through the creative process.

Once you've perfected our simple design, try working on a pyrography alphabet until you're comfortable to wood burn entire phrases or names. You can create decorative signs for doors and hanging plaques to gift friends and loved ones.

For more kitchen craft project ideas, why not get out your sewing machine next to create a set of potholders, a coastal collection of tea towels, or make a kid's apron?

You will need:

Wooden cheeseboard
Wood burning tool and tips
Pencil and tracing paper
Eraser
Craft knife

For craft supplies, try John Lewis & Partners

How to make a pyrography board:

1. Draw your own design on the chopping board. We've created a very simple design with two curved lines and circular shaped leaves along these.

2. Screw a pointed tip onto the end of the wood-burning tool, plug it in, and allow it to heat up for approximately five to 10 minutes.

3. Begin by testing the wood-burning tool on a spare piece of wood or the reverse of your board. Practice small dots first, then try dashes before moving on to longer lines.

4. With the round or ballpoint tip, begin working along the first stem pencil line, slowly pushing the tip into the wood until you see a little deepening of colour, before moving onto the next section. Repeat for the second line.

5. Allow the wood-burning tool to cool completely. Remove the pointed tip and replace it with the large circle tip or a leaf shape if you have one. Plug the tool in and allow it to heat up again.

6. Press the circle/leaf tip into the surface of the wood and hold flat for about four seconds until a leaf shape has been formed. Repeat along the stem line in pairs. Allow the wood-burning tool to cool completely.

7. Use an eraser to remove any pencil lines leftover on the design.

8. Don’t worry if you have pressed too hard, resulting in scorch marks on the board – a swift scratch at the surface with a craft knife will remove any mistakes.

How to make under the sea crafts

Esme Clemo — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

These under the sea craft projects are great for kids to make

Under the sea, darling it’s better, down where it’s wetter, take it from me! If your little ones are a big fan of The Little Mermaid or Finding Nemo, they’ll love learning how to make these under the sea crafts and deep-sea creatures.

Brightly coloured fish can be made with just a paper plater and some paints. A hole punch and some string can be transformed into swimming jellyfish. A couple of shells and some pipe cleaners are all you need to make the crawling crabs.

For more under the sea crafts, why not have a go at making our fish pinata and jellyfish hangers? If you don't have all the craft materials to make them, have a go at how to draw a crab instead, all you need is a pencil and paper.

How to make under the sea crafts: Jellyfish

You will need:

Paper plates

Hole punch

String, ribbon or yarn

Googly eyes

Paint

Paintbrush

Scissors

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

Instructions for making under the sea jellyfish:

1. Begin by painting the back of the paper plate in your chosen colour. Allow to dry completely.

2. Using a pair of scissors, cut the paper plate in half with a wavy line.

3. Hole punch along the edge of the wavy line.

4. Cut the thread into 60cm lengths. Fold in half and push the folded end of the string or yarn through the holes. Thread the string ends through the loop and pull taut to secure.

5. Add two googly eyes to the paper plate to give the jellyfish some character.

How to make under the sea crafts: Paper plate fish

You will need:

Paper plate

Paint

Paintbrush

Scissors

Glue stick

Googly eyes

Hole punch

Instructions for making under the sea fish:

1. Begin by painting the back of the paper plates in whatever colours you fancy, we’ve chosen a block colour green with a blue semi-circle on one side for the face, plus a couple of stripey styles. You can get creative with this, how about a rainbow fish covered in stripes of red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple?

2. Whilst the paint dries, cut out a couple of circles and triangles to be the tails and fins. Paint these pieces in matching shades.

3. Once dry, glue the fins and tails in place and leave to dry. Hold the pieces together with a clothes peg while the glue dries.

4. Use a hole punch to cut out a small mouth and then stick on a googly eye.

How to make under the sea crafts: Crabs

You will need:

Shells

Paint

Paintbrush

Googly eyes

Pipe cleaners

Scissors

PVA glue

Instructions for making under the sea crabs:

1. Paint the shells in your chosen colours and leave to dry.

2. Whilst the paint dries, cut two pipe cleaners into ten pieces for the crab legs. Fold two of the pieces to form the bend on the front legs. Repeat with another two pieces and then twist around the front legs to form the claws.

3. Glue the legs to the underside of the shell, using our photo as a guide.

4. Attach two google eyes to the front of the shell.

How to sew a llama toy

Esme Clemo — Mon, 20 Jul 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Stitch this lovable fluffy llama friend with the brightest of accessories

Have a go at learning how to sew our llama toy called Luca. He makes the perfect special gift for children, just remember to omit the tassels and chest strap if making the llama for a small child. His bright and bold saddle is sure to impress little ones.

If you love making this llama toy, then why not have a go at some of our other toy sewing tutorials? Like this traditional teddy bear, elephant toy, or floppy bunny to sew.

You will need:

Finished size: 31x26cm

Llama toy template printed at 100% - Download PDF
Tracing paper and pencil
50x35cm rectangle (⅛m) of cream curly 15mm pile fur fabric
50x35cm rectangle (⅛m) of ivory 3mm mini long pile minky style fabric
35x25cm rectangle (1/16m) of beige 3mm mini long pile minky style fabric
Two 9mm black toy safety eyes
Pink stranded cotton embroidery thread
16x7.5cm rectangle of pink felt
40cm of 1.8cm-wide patterned ribbon
90cm of navy 8mm-wide lace trim
Five pairs of 3cm tassels
Matching sewing threads
Toy filling

For craft supplies, check out John Lewis & Partners

How to sew the llama toy:

Note: Take a 6mm seam allowance. Pin seams before stitching with lots of pins because the layers of fur fabric are prone to move otherwise. Using a ballpoint needle on the sewing machine, join pieces with right sides together and edges level, matching notches and dots. After stitching use a pin to release any curly fur caught in the seam. Press the fabric face down on a towel with a cool iron to avoid flattening fur pile.

Step 1

Pin each curly fur ear to a minky style ear. Stitch the outer edge A-A, leaving the lower short edge open. Clip the corner, snip the curves then turn right side out. Fold the ears in half with the minky style ears inside, pin the lower folded edges together. Pin and tack each ear to a head, matching A and B.

Step 2

Tack, then stitch the heads and bodies together C-A-B-D. Snip the curves, and press seams toward the heads.

Step 3

Stitch the tails together E-F, leaving the notched edge open. Snip the curves and turn right side out. Tack the tail to the right side of one body E-F.

Step 4

Stitch the hooves to the legs G-H. Press the seams open. Stitch the front legs to the bodies and tummies from I to the dot at J. Stitch the back legs to the bodies and tummies from the dot at K to L. Press the seams toward the legs.

Step 5

Pin, tack, and stitch the bodies together M-C-E-F-N. Snip the curves.

Step 6

Make a tiny hole at the eye crosses on the face. Insert the shank of the toy eyes through the hole from the right side. Fix in place on the wrong side with its locking washer, pushing it down as far as it will go. Pin the face to the body. Stitch this seam by hand with a backstitch starting and finishing at the dots at O, stitch O-D-M-D-O. Snip the curves. Press seam toward the body.

Step 7

Fold the face in half along the fold line. Pin and stitch P-O-Q. Snip the curves. Finger press the seam open. To finger press, open the seam and run a moistened finger along it. Leave to dry before handling.

Step 8

Stitch the tummies together Q-N, leaving a gap between the crosses. Snip the curves, press the seam open.

Step 9

Pin the tummy to one body, legs, and hooves. Pin and stitch Q-I-G-R then stitch S-H-J-K-G-R then stitch N-L-H-S. Repeat to stitch the other half of the tummy to the other body, legs, and hooves. Snip bodies and tummies to J and K. Snip the curves. Press seams open.

Step 10

Stitch the hooves together along the bases. Finger press the seams open. Fold the hooves diagonally to match the end of the base seams to R and S. Stitch R-R and S-S.

Step 11

Turn the llama right side out. Stuff the llama evenly with toy filling. Slip stitch the gap closed.

Step 12

Refer to the pattern to mark the nose and mouth with a row of pins. Embroider the nose and mouth with a stem stitch using three strands of pink embroidery thread.

How to make the llama saddle and bridle:

Step 1

With right sides facing up, pin and tack patterned ribbon to the long edges of the saddle with 1cm of ribbon extending beyond the short edges of the saddle. Turn the ends of the ribbon to the underside of the saddle and tack in place. Stitch 3mm inside the long edges of the ribbon.

Step 2

Pin and tack lace trim to the saddle with the scalloped edge level with the short edges of the saddle and 1cm of lace extending beyond the long edges of the saddle. Turn the lace ends to the underside of the saddle and tack in place. Stitch close to the long straight edge of the lace. Sew a tassel to each corner of the saddle.

Step 3

Pin the saddle over the llama’s body. Sew the saddle securely to the body at the corners. To make a chest strap, pin one end of lace trim under the front of the saddle 5cm above the short edge. Take the lace trim around the llama’s chest and pin it under the other side of the saddle 5cm above the short edge. Cut off the excess lace. Sew the lace ends under the saddle, sew a tassel on top. Sew a pair of tassels to the centre of the chest strap.

Step 4

Using the photos as a guide, pin lace trim around the nose, overlapping the ends on one side of the head, cut off the excess. Pin lace trims around the back of the neck as a bridle, pinning the ends to the noseband, cut off the excess. Sew securely to the llama at the intersections. Sew a tassel at the intersections.

How to make laundry bags

Esme Clemo — Tue, 14 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Make these pretty appliqué laundry bags to organise your light and dark loads

Make your next wash day a doddle with these pre-organised laundry bags to sew. Simply chuck in your laundry throughout the week so it's ready to be washed without needing to be sorted first.

Plus, the drawstring close on these laundry bags makes them great for hanging up on the back of a door or on the end of a bed.

This is a great project for beginner sewers. For more like this one, check out our glasses case tutorial, travel bags to sew, and how to make a sewing machine cover.

You will need:

20cm x 25cm Bondaweb
10cm x 25cm plain pink cotton fabric
10cm x 25cm plain peach cotton fabric
45cm x 70cm teal patterned fabric
45cm x 70cm floral patterned fabric
Contrasting sewing thread
2m braided cotton cord
Bodkin or large safety pin

How to make laundry bags:

1. Fuse the Bondaweb to the reverse of the plain cotton fabric by following the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Print or draw out the words ‘light’ and ‘dark’ in block capitals; transfer the templates to the paper backing on the Bondaweb.

3. Cut out each letter and arrange it on the patterned fabric. Position the words about 9cm from the right edge and 18cm from the bottom edge of both patterned fabric pieces.

4. Peel off the paper backing and carefully replace the appliqués in position on the fabric. Using a warm iron, fuse the letters in place. Using a small zigzag stitch in a contrasting thread, sew all the way around the letters to secure.

5. Taking the two patterned rectangles, turn over the top long sides by 8cm with the wrong sides together and press. Along the short edges, turn under the sides by 1.5cm for the top 10cm. Pin and topstitch in place. Fold over the long edge again, this time by 4cm. Pin and topstitch in place along the folded edge to create a channel.

6. Turn the rectangle right sides together so the two short sides meet and pin all the raw edges apart from the channel opening. Stitch all the raw edges with a 1.5cm seam allowance. Turn right sides out, making sure to push out the bottom corners, and press.

7. Cut the cotton cord into two 1m lengths. Using a bodkin or large safety pin threaded with the braided cotton cord, push the cord around the channel. Leaving an extra bit of cord at each channel end, knot the two together and use as a drawstring to seal the bag.

How to make bath bombs

esme.clemo@ti-media.com (Esme Clemo) — Thu, 09 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Relax into a bath filled with lavender essential oils by adding a homemade bath bomb

For your next relaxing bath, be sure to make one of these essential oil scented bath bombs. If you’re not a fan of the lavender fragrance that we've used, why not try bergamot or rose geranium for an alternative fragrance? As they can cause skin irritation, it's vital you follow our instructions and/or do some research into how to use essential oils before jumping straight in, tempting as it may be.

Once you've made a couple of bath bombs, create a whole batch and fill a Kilner jar with a few to keep in your bathroom for your next relaxing soak in the tub or gift to your friends.

We've got plenty of other ideas to help you relax too, listen to a calming soundtrack or do some destress exercises.

You will need:

Time to make: 2 hours plus drying time

Various sizes of bath bomb moulds
70g citric acid
140g sodium bicarbonate
Lavender essential oil
1tbsp almond oil
Dried lavender
Dried rose petals
Protective gloves
Weighing scales
Large bowl
Sieve
Spoon or whisk
Measuring spoon

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to make bath bombs:

1. Weigh out the citric acid and sodium bicarbonate, then sieve into a large mixing bowl. Mix the dry ingredients together with a gloved hand or whisk.

2. Add 10 drops of lavender essential oil followed by the almond oil to the dry mixture. Combine the ingredients.

3. If you want to create floral bath bombs, now’s the time to add a couple of tablespoons of dried lavender. Stir continuously to make sure the lavender is distributed evenly.

4. Using your hand to feel the consistency, continue to mix. It should easily clump together when some mixture is squeezed in your hand. If it’s a bit dry, add a small amount of oil, a little at a time.

5. Place some dried rose petals in the top of one of the bath bomb moulds.

6. Fill one half of a mould with the mixture, making sure to heap extra on top. Do the same with another half.

7. Press the two halves together and squeeze to compact the mixture into a bath bomb shape.

8. Using a metal spoon, tap on the outside of one of the halves to help release the bath bomb. Twist and lift the mould half to reveal. Leave the bath bomb like this to dry for at least 24 hours before releasing the other half.

How to make terracotta jewellery

Esme Clemo — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Learning how to make jewellery with terracotta air dry clay is so easy to do at home

This fuss-free method of jewellery making is so simple to do with air-dry clay. We've made ours with a terracotta type of clay but you can opt for a white version or, once dry, choose to paint your jewellery in your favourite colours.

We love the matt look of this jewellery too but you can add a glaze-like varnish to give the jewellery a glossy finish.

Plus, you can play around with the shape and style of your jewellery. Don't fancy the geometric look? Be inspired by this rainbow and sunshine necklace and recreate this happy style in clay.

There are tons of things you can make with the leftover air-dry clay. Either keep it in an airtight container to last until your next project or have a go at these clay decorations.

You can get the kids involved too, by making a batch of salt dough to make the jewellery out of instead.

You will need:

Terracotta air-dry clay
Small and medium circle cookie cutter
Gold-plated headpins, eye pins, jump ring, necklace chain, trigger clasp and long ball ear wires
Craft knife and cutting mat
Rolling pin
Fine sandpaper
Wire cutters
Two pairs of round-nose pliers

For craft supplies, check out John Lewis & Partners

How to make terracotta jewellery:

Step 1

On the cutting mat, roll out the terracotta air-dry clay to 3mm in thickness. Taking the cookie cutters, cut out four small circles and two medium circles from the clay.

For the circular earrings:

Leave two of the small circles whole and push a gold-plated headpin through the centre. Allow to dry.

For the drop earrings:

Cut the remaining two small circles in half and push eye pins through the centres. Cut a medium circle into quarters and thread two with headpins. Allow to dry.

For the necklace:

Cut the remaining medium circle in half and thread with an eye pin. Thread a quarter with a headpin and leave to dry.

Step 2

Once dry, remove the pins and sand down any rough edges and surfaces. Replace the pins, trim down the excess wire with the wire cutters and using the two pliers, twist the remaining wire into a loop.

Step 3

Using our photo as a guide, thread the loops of wire onto one another and squeeze the loops closed with the pliers.

Step 4

Add a jump ring to the top of the necklace, thread onto a gold-plated chain and finish with a trigger clasp and jump ring at the ends. For both sets of earrings, add long ball ear wires to the tops.

How to draw a dog

Esme Clemo — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Teaching your child how to draw dogs and other animals is easy with our step-by-step picture guide.

Does your child love Lassie? Swoon over Snoopy? Well, now they can easily learn to draw their own four-legged friends with our doggy drawing guide.

Once your kids have mastered the basic shapes of this dog, they’ll be able to move onto drawing even more realistic animals. Why not try our how to draw a butterfly or crab drawing tutorial?

Or stick with the doggy theme and make this egg box dog mask instead.

You will need:

Colouring pens, pencils or crayons
Paper

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to draw a dog:

1. Start by drawing a small oval in the middle of the piece of paper. We’ve drawn our dog in brown felt tip, but you can choose to draw your dog in whatever colour you’d like.

2. Now draw a slightly larger semi-circle on top of the dog’s muzzle.

3. On either side of the dog’s head, draw a long and thin oval. These are the dog’s ears. You can draw triangles instead if you want your dog to have pointy ears.

4. For the front legs, draw four straight lines beneath the head. Finish each pair of lines with a semi-circle to draw the dog's paws. To draw the dog's body, bring your pen down from the neck into a circular shape, making sure to draw a line in between the legs.

5. Draw the back legs by adding two small semi-circles on each side of the dog’s body. Don’t forget to add a tail too, we’ve gone for a long pointy tail but you can draw a fluffier version if you’d like your dog to have a shaggy coat.

6. Finish the dog drawing with some details on the face. Draw a pair of small circles on the top of the head for eyes. On the muzzle section of the head, draw a semi-circle for the nose with a straight line underneath. Draw two curved lines on each side of the straight line for the mouth.

7. Don’t forget to add a bright collar and tag around your dog’s neck, you can include your dog’s name if you have room. And that's how to draw a dog!

How to draw an elephant

Esme Clemo — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Drawing an elephant is made easy for kids with just a couple of simple shapes and our step-by-step tutorial

Perform some animal magic, transforming simple shapes into a drawing of an elephant. You won’t believe how easy it is to teach kids how to draw complex animals with our step-by-step picture guide.

Once you’ve got out your arts and craft supplies, why not sit around the table together to create your own animal masterpieces. Try out our other tutorials to learn how to draw a dog, doodle a crab or sketch a butterfly.

You will need:

Colouring pens, pencils or crayons
Paper

For craft supplies, check out Baker Ross

How to draw an elephant:

1. Begin by drawing a circle to form the elephant’s head, you can draw a whole circle here or copy our three-quarter circle as pictured below.

2. Now draw the elephant’s ear with a circle overlapping the first. If you want to make a more realistic elephant, copy our almost-circle shape that resembles a big elephant’s ear.

3. Draw a second ear just behind the first.

4. For the elephant’s body, draw a large oval to the right of the head and ears.

5. On the elephant’s head, add two curved lines for the trunk.

6. To draw the legs, add two rectangle shapes to the bottom of the oval body. For a more realistic look, make the rectangles slightly curved where the elephant’s knees would be.

7. Add the other two legs just behind the ones you’ve already drawn. Don’t forget to add some semi-circles at the bottom of the legs for the toes.

8. At the other end of the elephant’s body, add a pointy tail, finished off with a couple of dashes at the end to create a furry tip.

9. Now it’s time to colour the elephant in. We’ve gone for a simple grey colour but you can let your child experiment with all sorts of colours.

10. Once coloured in, take a slightly darker or black pen or pencil and draw in the lines again to give your animal some definition. You can add a small circle on the head for an eye and add a tusk or two. And that's how to draw an elephant!

How to draw a crab

Esme Clemo — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Learning how to draw crabs is so easy when you know how

If your child is a doodler, why not teach them how to draw crabs and other animals with our step-by-step picture guides? We all love getting the art supplies out for a bit of fun, so why not turn a craft afternoon into an arty masterclass.

Once your child can draw simple shapes, like circles, rectangles, and triangles, it’s so easy to draw any animal they choose. With our crab drawing tutorial, a couple of circles, straight lines and zigzags are all your child needs to draw their own little crustacean.

Love crafting crabs? Make this rock pool from an egg box, complete with a pipe-cleaner crab.

So get out the colouring pencils and have some fun! Once you've mastered this, try our how to draw a butterfly or elephant drawing tutorial.

You will need:

Colouring pens, pencils or crayons
Paper

For craft supplies, check out Wilko

How to draw a crab:

1. Begin by drawing a big oval or circle shape in the middle of your piece of paper. We’ve drawn our crab in bright orange felt tip pen but you might want to start with a pencil until you build up confidence.

2. Draw a pair of arms on the top of the crab’s body and top with a pair of claws. To draw the claws, draw a semi-circle and then complete the circle with a pair of zigzags to form the pincers.

3. On the bottom of the crab’s body, draw a total of six legs. For each leg, draw two lines, ending at an angle with a point.

4. With a black pen, draw on two eyes at the top of the crab’s body. Or, if you have some googly eyes in your craft stash then stick those on instead to give your crab some added animation.

5. You can either leave the crab as just an outline or complete your drawing by colouring in the body and legs with a bold orange pen, pencil, or crayon.

How to draw a butterfly

Esme Clemo — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 22:00:00 +0000

Use this simple technique to master drawing butterflies

Learning how to draw a butterfly and other animals is so easy with our step-by-step picture guides. Just draw the shapes and your animal will slowly begin to come to life on your piece of paper.

This is a great project to teach your kids how to draw animals. A butterfly is so simple to start with.

Once you’ve mastered the basics, why not try drawing a realistic pattern on the wings from an image of your favourite butterfly or from real butterflies in your garden.

Turn your drawings into artwork for the walls or create your own homemade stickers. For more fun projects to do with your kids, check out our ultimate activities list.

You will need:

Colouring pens, pencils or crayons
Paper

For craft supplies, check out Wilko.

How to draw a butterfly:

1. Begin in the centre of your paper with a small circle. Try using a pencil for these first steps and go over the lines with a bright colouring pencil of felt tip pen afterwards.

2. Then draw the butterflies body in the shape on an elongated oval with a pointed tip for the tail.

3. On one side of the body, draw a large circle for the top of the wing.

4. Repeat on the other side so the butterfly looks symmetrical. If you’re struggling to draw the circles accurately, use a round object like a cup to draw around. Add two more circles underneath to complete the set of wings.

5. Draw two antennae on top of the butterfly’s head. You can draw small circles at the top or a spiral if you prefer.

6. Now it’s time to have some fun and get creative by drawing a pattern on the wings. We’ve chosen to follow the outer edge of the wing for a simple design, but you can come up with anything you want. How about some polka dots and stripes?

7. Finish your butterfly drawing by colouring it in. We’ve used a combination of blues and oranges, but you can use any colours you like. The brighter, the better.

How to upcycle a bedside table

Esme Clemo — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000

This simple decoupage technique is a great way to learn how to upcycle a bedside table or any other worn out pieces of furniture you have around the house

Learn how to upcycle a bedside table by turning a tired and worn out piece of furniture into a bold and impressive decoupage project.

For even more upcycling inspiration, take a look at these map projects and wallpaper crafts.

Or for something a little more challenging, ditch the paper for these vintage-look painting effects to use on your next piece of furniture.

To upcycle a bedside table you will need:

Bedside table – we found ours in our local Emmaus charity shop
Sandpaper and cork sanding block
Wood filler and filler knife
Cloth
Furniture primer
Chalk paint
Decoupage paper
Decorative drawer knob
Paintbrush
PVA glue
Matte finish Mod Podge
Ruler and pencil
Pin or skewer

For craft supplies, check out John Lewis & Partners

How to prepare a bedside table:

1. Remove the old knob and drawers from the bedside table. Using some sandpaper and a sanding block, remove any paint and smooth out any chips on the surface. Don’t forget to do the drawer too.

2. With the wood filler and filler knife, fill any holes or indentations in the surface. Allow to dry completely and then sand away any excess filler.

3. Remove dust from the bedside table with a slightly damp cloth.

How to upcycle a bedside table:

1. Prime and then paint the bedside table and drawer, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the amount of coats and finishing techniques. Allow the dry completely.

2. Measure the drawer front and base, and transfer the dimensions to the reverse of the decorative paper.

3. Apply the PVA glue to the surfaces to be decoupaged and leave to go tacky for a couple of minutes. Position the paper over the top and push down to secure. Keep an eye on the paper as it dries to remove any wrinkles in the paper that might appear.

4. Once dry, apply a coat of matte Mod Podge over the top. Allow to dry.

5. Using a pin or skewer, push a hole into the decoupage paper on the drawer front where the previous knob was. Screw the new knob onto the drawer front and replace the drawer in the bedside table.

Easy rainbow craft projects for kids

Grace Walsh — Wed, 01 Jul 2020 05:01:41 +0000

Looking for your next craft project or a fun way to decorate your home with the kids? Check out our list of fabulous rainbow craft projects for kids...

These rainbow craft projects for kids are a great way to get them looking forward to summer, with so many activities and things to do all around a rainbow theme. So whether you love a spot of baking, or cutting and sticking, we've got all the craft ideas you'll need to bring in the summer and give your home a spot of colour.

There's no need to go hunting around in craft shops with this selection of rainbow crafts for kids though, as many of them can be made using the basic supplies you're likely to have at home. But if you do need things like food colouring, then we recommend The Craft Company. They've got everything you need to bring some colour into your baking. And if your craft box is starting to look a little empty, you can stock up on all the paints, glue, paper and carboard you'll need to make any of these activities with Wilko.com.

Many of these craft projects also great for when the next kid's party comes around, as you can make loads of them to full your party space with colour.

Check out our rainbow craft projects for kids...

Fun and easy rainbow bakes

1. How to make rainbow-shaped biscuits

Credit: TI Media Limited

This recipe for making rainbow-shaped biscuits first needs this recipe for vanilla cookie dough. That's the part where adult supervision is need. After that, kids of any age can get involved in baking this colourful and delicious rainbow cookies. They're a unique way to mix up your baking and you can make them into a variety of rainbow shapes, using whatever cookie cutters you have in your kitchen. Find out how: How to make rainbow biscuits

2. How to make a rainbow fridge cake

Credit: TI Media Limited

This pink wafer ice cream cake is a great no-bake alternative to the rainbow layer cakes (see the recipe above) that have taken over the internet. It's just as colourful and you can even make the rainbow drops on the side of the cake yourself. The best bit? This no-bake cake is made entirely of ice cream, so it's even easier to make than the classic rainbow cake - perfect for making with little ones who can't quite be trusted with the oven yet. Find out how: Pink wafer ice cream cake

3. Make rainbow pancakes

Credit: TI Media Limited

Who doesn't love a bit of weekend baking? Turn your brunches upside down with this exciting recipe for making your own rainbow pancakes at home. Find out how: How to make rainbow pancakes

4. How to make a rainbow cake

Credit: Rainbow Trust

This colourful recipe was originally made to support the Rainbow Trust, a charity that helps families with seriously ill children. It was originally created by Great British Bake Off Winner, Candice Brown and it's one of our favourite rainbow-inspired things to do. Kids will love experimenting with food colouring (try mixing red and blue colouring together to make purple) and layering the colourful cake in the tin. Find out how: Candice Brown's Rainbow Cake

These rainbow craft projects for kids are great way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon or keep them busy during the week.

How to make edible slime

Esme Clemo — Fri, 26 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Mix up a batch of this delicious edible slime that’s fun to play with and a treat to eat

Making edible slime is fun for all the family to play with and to eat! This recipe is taste-safe, so if it does end up in your kid’s mouth there’s no need to panic. It’s so good to be able to let them play and explore however they want to without worrying.

Slime is great for sensory play, kids love the gooey feeling, bright colour and squidgy texture. And with our marshmallow slime recipe, it tastes good too. For more tasty fun, have a go at our edible playdough recipe.

If you don’t want to add extra food colouring, try to find colourful marshmallows instead. Or for something a little snazzier, swap the colourful sprinkles for edible glitter. Watch as the glossy pink slime shimmers and sparkles as you play.

Carry on getting creative with the kids with our playdough recipe and other fun science experiments.

To make edible slime you will need:

50g marshmallows
2tsp vegetable oil
3tbsp icing sugar
3tbsp cornflour
Sprinkles
Gel food colouring

How to make edible slime:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the marshmallows on a medium heat in the microwave for about 20 seconds and then stir. If they’re not completely melted, return to the microwave for a further 10 seconds. Repeat until melted through.

2. Combine the icing sugar and cornflour in a separate bowl. Add 1tbsp of the dry mixture to the melted marshmallows and stir. Keep adding spoonfuls of the icing sugar and flour until it becomes difficult to mix.

3. Once the mixture has cooled, begin kneading the slime with your hands. Add a couple of drops of food colouring if you like.

4. Add 1tsp of vegetable oil and continue kneading until the mixture becomes a little less sticky.

Add some sprinkles:

5. For extra fun and colour, add in some sprinkles during playtime. Store the edible slime in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it, but don’t wait too long as the edible slime won’t last forever.

How to make a fabric purse

Esme Clemo — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Perfect for your cards or coins, these wallets are easy to spot in your bag

It's so easy to make these pretty fabric purses that they're the perfect beginner project. If you've just started experimenting with a sewing machine, making these fabric purses will have you stitching in no time. Using a straight stitch setting throughout, our fabric purse tutorial is so simple to follow that even little ones can have a go with adult supervision.

Plus, you can use up your stash of scrap fabrics leftover from other projects too. Once you've made one, you might as well sew up a whole set and give them to friends and families as gifts. Experiment with plains and prints, matching the snap fastenings to the dominant colour in the patterned fabric. Then, have a go at making a matching shopper, try sewing this embroidered tote bag or this simple cotton bag.

After you've mastered that, have a go at using up fabric remnants on this patchwork quilt.

To make a purse you will need:

Paper, pencil, scissors and ruler
Patterned cotton fat quarters
12 x 19cm thin fusible batting for each wallet
Snap fastenings
Bias tape maker

How to make a fabric purse:

1. Cut out two pieces of fabric measuring 11.5 x 19cm. Mark 6cm in along both long edges. Mark the centre of the nearest short edge and join the marks to create the triangle flap. Repeat on the other piece of fabric.

2. Cut a piece of batting 5mm smaller than the fabric and fuse to one of the pieces.

3. If you’d like a loop for a key ring, use the bias tape maker to create 5cm piece of tape. Fold in half and sew to one of the fabric pieces.

4. With the fabric pieces right sides together, sew the edges with a 5mm seam allowance leaving a small gap for turning through.

5. Turn right sides out and press. Fold the bottom of the wallet up by 6.5cm and press. Stitch all the way around the edges leaving the bottom unstitched. Attach a snap fastening following the manufacturers instructions and snap closed.

How to make an embroidered clutch bag

Esme Clemo — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Delicately embroidered and beaded, this stylish blue evening bag can be made in any colour to match a special outfit

It's so easy to make an embroidered clutch bag with some simple stitching techniques. Wow your friends on your next night out with this show-stopping design.

You'll need to be comfortable with a needle and thread to make this embroidered clutch bag. So, if you need some practice, start off with this embroidered tote bag or this simple cotton bag instead.

Through this project, we're sure you'll find a new love of embroidery. Why not try out some other stitching techniques? Like this cross-stitch cushion project.

To make an embroidered clutch bag you will need:

Enlarged pattern - DOWNLOAD PDF
Tracing paper and sharp HB pencil
65 x 40cm rectangle of silk or polyester fabric
45 x 25cm rectangle of lightweight wadding and lining
White stranded cotton embroidery thread
Approx. 26 x 3mm white pearl beads
30cm embroidery hoop
Matching sewing thread
Curved 13.5 x 9cm metal glue-in purse frame with loops
Purse chain
Masking tape
Strong textile glue e.g. Gutermann HT2

For sewing supplies, check out John Lewis & Partners

Making the paper patterns:

On a photocopier, enlarge the pattern so the bag measures 20cm across. Trace the pattern onto tracing paper. Mark the crosses, notches, embroidery motif and dots with a pencil. Cut out the pattern. Redraw the embroidery motif and dots on the wrong side of the tracing with a pencil.

Cutting out the pattern pieces:

1. Ensure that arrows run in the same direction as the grain of the fabric.

2. Cut one 40 x 40cm square and one purse from fabric. Cut one pair of purses from wadding and lining.

3. Lightly draw the crosses and notches on the wrong side of the fabric and lining purses. Snip the notches. With right sides facing up, tape the pattern on the centre of the fabric square. 4. Draw around the pattern then redraw the embroidery motif and dots to transfer them to the fabric. Remove the pattern.

How to embroider the clutch bag:

Fix the fabric square right side up centrally in the embroidery hoop. Pull the fabric taut. Use three strands of embroidery thread to embroider the motif with stem stitch. Sew a bead at the dots. Sew beads around the bead at the flower centre. Remove the embroidery. Press the embroidery face down on a towel to avoid squashing the stitches.

How to make an embroidered clutch bag:

1. Take a 1cm seam allowance and stitch seams with right sides together and raw edges level.

2. Cut out the embroidered purse, lightly draw the crosses and notches on the wrong side. Snip the notches. Then tack the wadding to the wrong side of the fabric purses.

3. Pin and stitch the lower notched edges of the fabric purses together between the crosses. Clip the curves and press the seam open.

4. Repeat step 2 to make the lining, leaving a gap between the notches to turn through later. Then turn the fabric purse right side out and insert it into the lining, matching the seams.

5. Pin the upper edge of one purse and lining together. Starting at one cross, hand sew the upper edge with a neat backstitch for about 2cm. Repeat at the other end of the upper edge. Next machine stitch the upper edge between the hand stitching. Repeat on the other upper edge. Carefully trim away the wadding in the seam allowances. Snip the curves.

6. Pull the purse right side out through the gap in the lining. Then slipstitch the gap closed. Push the lining into the purse. Press the upper edges.

Adding the clasp to the clutch bag:

1. Stick a piece of masking tape to each section of the purse frame at the centre. Mark the centre on the tape with the pencil. Mark the centre of the upper edges of the purse with a pin. Open the frame wide. Follow the glue manufacturer’s instructions to run a line of glue generously inside one channel of the frame. Then apply glue to the upper edge of the purse front, starting and finishing 1.5cm above the intersection of the seams. Leave to start to dry if instructed to do so (if using Gutermann HT2 glue, leave to dry for five minutes). Don’t worry if you get glue on the outside of the metal frame, it is easy to scrape off.

2. Lastly insert the upper edge of the purse front into the frame channel, matching centres. Carefully ease the purse into the channel as far as it will go using the tip of a scissor blade on the outside and then the inside of the purse. Leave to dry then repeat on the upper edge of the purse back. Leave the glue to dry completely before handling. Finish by clipping the chain ends onto the loops.

How to make a pompom

Esme Clemo — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0000

All you need is a piece of cardboard, some scissors and yarn to make bold and fluffy pompoms

Making pompoms is the perfect way to use up scrap pieces of yarn that you have leftover from other craft projects. You can mix up colours and textures to create something truly unique.

Use these fluffy pompom balls as decorations. They can be hung along a piece of ribbon to form a garland or tied onto a piece of cardboard to create a jolly bookmark. If you have more than a couple of scraps of yarn, why not have a go at our knitted bunting instead?

Keep a stash of pompoms in your craft box, ready to be added onto any craft project that needs a bit of colour or fun like our pompom blanket. Or have a go at making something with little ones, like these pompom animals.

To make a pompom you will need:

Cardboard
Pencil
Something circular to draw around, like a cup
Yarn
Scissors

For craft supplies, check out John Lewis & Partners

How to make a pompom:

1. Begin by drawing around the circular object or cup onto the cardboard. Then draw a smaller circle inside the first one, a glue stick lid is the perfect size.

2. Cut along the markings so you’re left with a doughnut shape. Repeat so you have two identical doughnuts.

3. With the two cardboard doughnuts stacked on top of one another, begin winding yarn around the cardboard pieces working your way around the circle.

4. Keep winding until it becomes impossible to fit the yarn through the hole in the centre.

5. Holding the yarn and cardboard tightly in one hand, insert the scissors and snip through the edges. Once you’ve made a couple of snips, you should be able to squeeze the scissors in between the cardboard pieces to make cutting the yarn easier.

6. Once you’ve cut all the way around the edge, take another piece of yarn and slot it between the cardboard pieces. Pull the ends of the yarn together and tie in a knot, making sure the knot sits as close to the middle of the pompom as possible. Add a double knot to secure and leave these yarn ends long for hanging later.

7. Slip the cardboard pieces off the pompom or cut them away if it feels too tight.

8. Give the pompom a shake until it begins to resemble a ball shape.

9. Now trim the yarn ends with your scissors to form a neat and spherical pompom.

Top tip:

If you don’t have time for the circle drawing and cardboard cutting, think about investing in a pompom maker instead. They halve the time it takes to make a pompom with the traditional method.

How to make a kids apron

Esme Clemo — Tue, 23 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0000

This easy sew design will become an essential when cooking in the kitchen with the kids

A kids apron is a great project to try out with little ones and beginner sewers. Inspire your children to sit down at a sewing machine or get creative in the kitchen with this fun and colourful make.

There's no need to worry about making a mess or getting mucky while baking when you're wearing your new make. Once you've finished sewing, get in the kitchen to create these easy bakes or delicious recipes.

All you need is some fabric and simple sewing skills to get started. Then follow our in-depth instructions to complete your first kids apron. Once you've made one, there will be no stopping your little sewers, so why not make them as gifts for friends and family from spare fabric. Or try these other beginner sewing projects instead.

To make a kids apron you will need:

65 x 75cm patterned fabric
17 x 22cm contrasting pocket fabric
3m of 25mm wide yellow acrylic webbing
Jumbo pompom trim 65cm
Matching thread
Scissors, ruler and pencil

How to make a kids apron:

1. Along one short edge of the fabric, measure in 20cm from each side and mark. From the same corners, measure down by 25cm and mark. Join the two marks and cut away the triangle at each corner.

2. Fold the neck and side edges under by 1cm and press. Repeat to enclose raw edges and topstitch to secure.

3. Fold the underarm edges under by 5mm, pin and machine stitch in place. Turn again by 3cm, pin and stitch as close to the edge as possible to create a casing. Thread the webbing through each underarm, leaving the webbing loose around the neck edge.

4. Turn the bottom edge under by 1cm and pin the pompom trim to the fold. Topstitch to secure.

5. Turn the edges of the pocket fabric under by 1cm. Pin to the centre of the apron and topstitch in your desired position.

How to make a set of star cushions

Esme Clemo — Tue, 23 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0000

These fun cushions will give your sofa some star quality

Making a celestial star cushion will immediately transform a dull and worn out sofa. Ditch boring square and circular designs in favour of these standout stars, all you need is some fabric and sewing skills. Plus, the piped edge elevates a simple star shape into a high-end lookalike.

If you love a themed cushion but don't fancy stars, why not make our cactus cushion or this button heart design?

For more of a challenge, turn your hand to our patchwork cushion tutorial. It's a great project to expand your sewing skills too.

For sewing supplies, check out John Lewis & Partners

Note: Place right sides together and use 1.5cm seam allowances throughout.

How to make the star cushion piping:

Create the piping by cutting 4cm-wide strips from the cream cotton. Join together at the short ends to make a length long enough to go around the edge of each star twice. Next place the piping cord inside the strip and sew together using the piping foot.

Cutting out the star cushion pieces:

1. Using our photo as a guide, draw or print out a star shape to your two chosen sizes and cut out. Place each template on the stripe and plain navy cotton fabric and cut out two star shapes from each. 2. For the contrasting edging, cut out 10cm-wide strips from the stripe and plain navy cotton. Then join the short ends together until you have enough to go all the way around the edge of your stars.

How to make a set of star cushions:

1. Pin together the raw edges of the star, piping and the contrasting edging. Then stitch together all the way around, leaving the seam where the contrasting edges meet unsewn. Repeat with the corresponding star on the other side of the contrasting edging. 2. Turn the stars right sides out and, through the gap in the edging, fill the cushions with the stuffing. 3. Pin together the seam of the contrasting edges and, with the matching thread and the hand-sewing needle, stitch the gap closed.

How to make a Father’s Day badge

Esme Clemo — Sat, 20 Jun 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Let dad know he’s number one by awarding him this handmade rosette

Just a paper plate is all you need to create a best dad badge to give him this Father’s Day. Decorate the badge in dad’s favourite colours, using whatever paper and ribbons you have around the house.

If you don’t have any ribbons, make your Father’s Day badge with pieces of trailing tissue paper. Or how about cutting up a colourful plastic bag instead?

It’s so easy to make, just follow our step-by-step photo guide and your badge will be complete in a matter of minutes!

You can make this badge for any special occasion, not just Father’s Day. Simply adapt the instructions by writing something else on the circle of card, perhaps for a birthday badge or for a first place award.

Plus, you can make whatever size badge you want to. If you don’t want a big badge, omit the paper plate altogether. For a super-sized version, a regular paper plate will ensure that everyone sees it on your dad’s special day.

You will need:

Small paper plate
Coloured card
Scissors
Glue stick
Felt tip pen or pencil
Wide and thin ribbon
Sticky tape

For craft supplies, check out Baker Ross

How to make a Father's Day badge:

1. Cut out a circle from the coloured card.

Write a message to dad on the circle. We’ve chosen no. 1 dad, but best dad or happy Father’s Day would work well too.

2. Glue the circle onto the underside of the plate.

3. Trim a pair of ribbons, fold in half and splay the ends. Tape the thinnest ribbon onto the opposite side of the plate first and then follow with the wide ribbon.

4. To wear, use a piece of double sided sticky tape. Or, ask an adult to attach a safety pin to the back so dad can attach it to his top to wear for the whole of Father’s Day.