Today, I’m excited to be teaching you a really fun resin craft that is fabulous for those of you who have already made a craft or two with resin: How to make a resin tray – with or without handles.

In this post, I’ll be addressing important things to remember, and tips for getting the results you want. I’ll be sharing how I like to attach my handles (I know that’s a biggie for many of you here). And I’ll share all about getting creative with your fill-ins – because with trays you have that much more surface area.

The resin tray is the DIY epoxy resin coaster’s second cousin but so much more fun, if you ask me! Not only do you have so much surface area to explore and fill in, but you’re only making one, not a set, making it much less… boring?

Tips for making a DIY resin tray

There are two main types of resin trays that I’ll be crafting with you but first… let’s offer some general tips that are critical to the success of learning how to make a resin tray.

Critical tips for making resin trays

Level your surface

Yes, I made this mistake. Since the tray is a larger item, variations in surface – that is, a slight tilt – will make a MUCH bigger difference.

You WILL want to level your surface first. While this might not have been an issue with smaller crafts like DIY resin earrings or pendants, you might have a very shaky tray that’s spilling out of the mold on one end and only half full on the other if you neglect this step.

To do this, work on a wood board of sorts instead of directly on your surface. This should be a scrap board that you don’t mind ruining, as if resin gets on and cures, you’ll need to sand it off to remove it.

Place a bubble level on the surface. Use notebooks or old magazines (again, those you don’t mind ruining) to prop your surface on either side as needed to make it level.

Mix your resin slowly and take your time with air bubbles.

Especially when it comes to trays with a bit more of a rim, you really need to take your time with it to avoid air bubbles. While smaller crafts can be zapped with a heat gun (and you’ll do the same with this one) you’ll find that there is so much surface area to go over, you’ll want to be careful from the get go.

First of all, mix slowly. Second, pour slowly. The more you do, the more you’ll need to correct. Third, take time to go over it slowly with a heat gun. And fourth, if there’s a rim, first fill the rim, remove heat bubbles from there, then fill the rest and zap bubbles again.

Protect your project

More surface space means more space for lint and other debris to get in. Protect your project while curing – just sticking an empty and totally clean storage container over it while curing can work.

Two types of DIY resin trays

Resin trays can come in all sorts of forms and shapes, however for the sake of this post I’m going to make focus on two main types:

• A rimmed tray – This is typically a small oval, and great as a trinket dish or small tray to corral cosmetics.
• With handles – This is normally a larger rectangular tray, and is very popular with irregular edges for a “geode” look.

In this tutorial, we’ll focus less on the exact design you choose and more on getting this design right.

How to make a resin tray with a rim

When you have a rim, even if it’s a low one, think of it as another layer to your project. If you’d like to do it as a separate color, you can, allowing it to cure or partially cure before adding your main base layer.

You also need to make sure your resin reaches all the corners of this rim – the deeper the corners in a mold, the more likely you are to trap air bubbles, and your rimmed resin tray mold has corners all around…

And finally, as I mentioned, you’ll need to make sure to pop air bubbles in the rim before proceeding to pour the rest of your project, just to make sure they don’t get too deep and embedded.

How to make a resin tray with handles

There are three ways to add handles to a resin tray:

1. Fixing them in place on the mold and pouring around them.
2. Inserting them when the resin is partially cured.
3. Drilling holes and screwing them in after the resin has cured.

Each one has its advantages. Inserting handles as part of the process allows you to have less of a job finishing it up. The first way means you’ll have the metal part of the handles showing on the bottom. It’s also another step of the process to work in and you’ll need to work around it with your design.

The second, partially curing and then adding, allows you to skip the hardware, but you’ll need to get to know your resin well to see when the ideal time is to do this. It’s ideal for a totally fluid design, not one with fixed elements.

Drilling holes and adding the handles after feels the most professional to me, which is why I did it. You need to make sure you don’t add anything difficult to drill in the spots where you’ll be doing that, but you can totally work around your existing design other than that. You’ll also need to make sure to get your placement right. It’s a bit more work, but looks so good.

How to Make a Resin Tray

Ready for the step by step tutorial? Just a reminder: this will vary based on what your specific project is! I’ll share based on what I did.

What you Need

Materials

• Epoxy resin
• White or black resin dye
• OR glitter
• For resin tray with handles: Rectangular tray mold
• Two cabinet or resin tray handles – many tray molds come with handles included. However, if you’re making this with a mold you already have or want a different style, you’ll want to get this separately.
• For resin tray with rimmed: rimmed oval resin tray mold
• Mix-ins and decorations if doing a fixed design tray. Ideas: dried flowers, sprinkles, etc.
• Disposable gloves
• Felt sliders or regular adhesive felt for tray with handles
• Optional: raw rice (to measure how much resin you need – can be eaten after)

Tools & Equipment

• Respirator mask
• Heat gun
• Measuring cup
• Mixing jug
• Sticks for stirring
• Drill
• Screwdriver

Crafting the Tray Itself

Rimmed tray

On this one we’ll be showing a more fluid design with glitter and pigment.

1. Optional: to gauge how much resin you’ll need, you can add rice to your mold and then measure how much it takes to fill it. Keep in mind, you’ll need to clean your mold after.

2. Mix up your resin. Stir it slowly to avoid air bubbles. Mix according to package instructions.

3. Slowly mix in any glitters or pigments you plan to use.

4. Fill your base layer and pop air bubbles using a heat gun. Note: I HIGHLY recommend first filling the rim, popping those bubbles, and then filling the base.

5. I allowed my transparent glitter layer to cure overnight and then added a layer with black pigment.

6. When fully cured, demold.

Note: my sample has LOTS of air bubbles because I did not follow the above advice on this tray. The next one was much better….

Flat Tray

On this one, I’ll be using a fixed design.

1. Measure and mix up your resin. Spread a thin layer on the bottom of your tray, zap air bubbles, and allow it to get tacky (timing will vary based on resin.

2. Place your design on your tacky surface. I used Hanukkah candles to make a Menorah tray. You’re doing it when your first layer is tacky so that it stays fixed in place.

3. Allow it to cure and pour your next layer. If you want it to be fully clear around the design, first do a clear layer and then a backing layer. I did a translucent white backing layer, then swirled in small amounts of straight white pigment with a toothpick to add a subtle marbled effect.

When it’s totally cured, demold it and we’ll then add handles…

Adding Handles to a Resin Tray

1. Mark the location of your holes. Note: using masking tape to make a template on your hardware and applying it to your resin tray might help.

2. Drill your holes.

3. Partially screw in your screws from back to front so that they just hit the surface of the front of the resin.

4. Place your handle where it belongs and holding it in place with your weak hand, screw the screws into the hardware.

5. Add felt sliders to cover the screws and serve as “legs” for your tray.

You’ve learned how to make a resin tray with handles or a rim! Which do you prefer and what will you be using yours for? Comment below!

DIY Resin Vanity Tray Tutorials

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Active Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Learn how to make DIY resin vanity tray in two styles - with handles or with a rim! Either way it's a fun, easy resin craft for beginners to try.

Print

Materials

• Epoxy resin
• White or black resin dye
• OR glitter
• For resin tray with handles: Rectangular tray mold
• Two cabinet or resin tray handles – many tray molds come with handles included. However, if you’re making this with a mold you already have or want a different style, you’ll want to get this separately.
• For resin tray with rimmed: rimmed oval resin tray mold
• Mix-ins and decorations if doing a fixed design tray. Ideas: dried flowers, sprinkles, etc.
• Disposable gloves
• Felt sliders or regular adhesive felt for tray with handles
• Optional: raw rice (to measure how much resin you need – can be eaten after)

Tools

• Respirator mask
• Heat gun
• Measuring cup
• Mixing jug
• Sticks for stirring
• Drill
• Screwdriver

Instructions

Rimmed tray

1. Optional: to gauge how much resin you'll need, you can add rice to your mold and then measure how much it takes to fill it. Keep in mind, you'll need to clean your mold after.

2. Mix up your resin. Stir it slowly to avoid air bubbles. Mix according to package instructions.

3. Slowly mix in any glitters or pigments you plan to use.

4. Fill your base layer and pop air bubbles using a heat gun. Note: I HIGHLY recommend first filling the rim, popping those bubbles, and then filling the base.

5. I allowed my transparent glitter layer to cure overnight and then added a layer with black pigment.

6. When fully cured, demold.

Flat Tray

1. Measure and mix up your resin. Spread a thin layer on the bottom of your tray, zap air bubbles, and allow it to get tacky (timing will vary based on resin.

2. Place your design on your tacky surface. I used Hanukkah candles to make a Menorah tray. You're doing it when your first layer is tacky so that it stays fixed in place.

3. Allow it to cure and pour your next layer. If you want it to be fully clear around the design, first do a clear layer and then a backing layer. I did a translucent white backing layer, then swirled in small amounts of straight white pigment with a toothpick to add a subtle marbled effect.

When it's totally cured, demold it and we'll then add handles...

Adding Handles

1. Mark the location of your holes. Note: using masking tape to make a template on your hardware and applying it to your resin tray might help.

2. Drill your holes.

3. Partially screw in your screws from back to front so that they just hit the surface of the front of the resin.

4. Place your handle where it belongs and holding it in place with your weak hand, screw the screws into the hardware.

5. Add felt sliders to cover the screws and serve as "legs" for your tray.

Notes

Critical tips for making resin trays

• Level your surface
• Mix your resin slowly and take your time with air bubbles
• Protect your surface

Did you make this project?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

The post How to Make a Resin Tray with Handles appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Yarn is such a delightful material to work with, with its soft texture and the multitude of gorgeous colors available. Whether you’re looking for a way to use extra yarn you have at home, or if you’re standing in the yarn aisle at your local store wanting a reason to buy a new skein, here are some great ideas for you.

All the crafts in this post do not require any knitting or crocheting – you can find a number of great crochet patterns on this website, but this collection is here to showcase the great variety of other ways you can use yarn.

These crafts do not require specific skills or tools and can be done by crafters of all ages and backgrounds. Many of them can even be done with small leftover amounts of yarn that you already have.

Pompoms and Tassels

Yarn is uniquely perfect for making pompoms, and it’s one of several excellent materials for tassels, too. These posts show you how to make perfect pom poms or tassels, as well as some ideas for how to use them.

How to Make Pom Poms from Yarn 3 Ways by Moms and Crafters

With three different methods and experienced advice, this post teaches you how to make sure your pom poms come out amazing every time, whether you choose to use a pom-pom maker, cardboard, or just your own hands.

How to Make a Pom Pom With a Fork by Moms and Crafters

While you can’t go wrong with the three ways above, here’s one more method just for fun – and everyone should be able to find a fork easily enough. Try all the methods to see which one you like best!

Pom Pom Chicks by Crafts by Amanda

Pompoms are such fun to make, but then what? Here’s one adorable idea for using yarn pom poms as the base for another craft. Just a few little accessories can turn your plain ball of yarn into an endearing character.

Pom Pom Thanksgiving Turkey by Moms and Crafters

Here’s another idea for a character you can make with your pom poms. Add a felt tail fan and googly eyes to make your pom pom ready for Thanksgiving!

How to Make a Yarn Tassel Garland by Moms and Crafters

Tassels can be used to decorate all kinds of things. This garland tutorial begins by teaching you everything you need to make yarn tassels, so you can head this way even if you don’t plan on using them for a garland specifically.

Beaded Tassel Charms by Moms and Crafters

Similar to the previous tassel technique, but the addition of beads really gives these a different look. The post also includes fresh ideas of how to use them as accessories.

Yarn Wrapping Techniques

One way to use yarn to add texture to a project or decor item is wrapping. It’s simple to do and creates a beautiful effect. Most of these projects are especially well suited for young children (though there are some more sophisticated options and variations too) who develop their fine motor skills by grasping and wrapping the yarn.

DIY Bee Feeder by Confessions of an Overworked Mom

Bees are a hugely important part of our environment, and you can help them out with this yarn-wrapped feeder. The texture of yarn looks great in any garden or outdoor setting! The post also includes instructions and advice on how to feed the bees properly.

Easy Yarn Wrapped Flowers Craft by School Time Snippets

This craft is especially cute for young children, because you don’t need a whole lot of skill and you really can’t get it wrong. Grasping the yarn and wrapping it around the flower shape can improve kids’ fine motor skills, too.

Easy Yarn Wrapped Rainbow Craft by School Time Snippets

Here’s another option for young crafters. The technique is similar to the flowers linked above, but with some new ideas to guide children in positioning the yarn and learning about the colors of the rainbow. 

Yarn Octopus Instructions by Easy Crafts for Kids

This little 3-D yarn buddy is fun to make and super cute! In addition to yarn wrapping, you’ll also do some simple braiding, and of course accessorizing to give your critter its unique personality.

DIY Pencil Holders by Plate In 28

This craft is a double win – it makes a great gift, and it upcycles cans which you may have otherwise discarded. It requires minimal supplies and skills, so it’s perfect for kids and rainy days.

Popsicle Craft by Moms and Crafters

This simple craft for kids brings summer treats to mind – but won’t melt! Use real popsicle sticks along with simple cardboard, yarn, and your choice of glue gun or tacky glue to add sweet treats to your child’s play or decor.

Yarn Wrapped Clothespin Dragonfly by Moms and Crafters

These adorable bugs made from clothespins and yarn are a great choice for kids, who can also use them as toys when they’re finished making them. They’re simple and small, so you can make a bunch at a time for extra fun.

Macrame Heart Keychain by Moms and Crafters

Here’s one that’s more sophisticated than the basic wrapping projects above. You’ll be using wire and rope to form your project’s shape, and choose from textured or simple yarn to achieve different aesthetics.

Macrame Rainbow Charm by Moms and Crafters

This is another sweet macrame-style yarn wrapping project that’s more involved than the basic wraps but still approachable for crafters of any level. Use the given suggestions or your own creativity to embellish it with beads and pom poms.

Other Yarn Projects

Weaving, knotting, gluing, and even clay are some more ways to create beautiful projects with yarn. We already thought outside the box of kitting and crochet, now let these posts expand your creativity even more! There is truly no limit to the beautiful ways you can create with yarn.

Yarn Monster Craft by Moms and Crafters

This adorable monster can be used as a puppet or for display. You can use any type of yarn – try a fun texture like chenille! This craft has endless room for creativity in adding features to your monster with wiggly eyes, pompoms, felt, paper…

T-Shirt Yarn Dreamcatcher by A Crafty Mix

A Crafty Mix shows you how to make a sophisticated tree shape using T-shirt yarn. T-shirt yarn has a unique texture and weight – and if you don’t want to buy something unique, there’s also a link for how to make your own.

Flower God’s Eye How To DIY by Red Ted Art

Despite the  name, this craft is not just for the religious – it’s just based on a legendary weaving technique, but in this case with some adaptations to form a flower design. There’s a lot of room for personal creativity once you learn the basic technique.

Yarn Craft Teepee Tea Light Holder by Blue Bear Wood

Whether you’re decorating a Native American theme or just want something that looks cool, these little teepees are perfectly charming. They use natural sticks for an earthy feel that goes great with yarn. It requires some dexterity and patience, so this is not a little-kid project.

Yarn Trinket Bowls by Arty Crafty Kids

This craft is fun for little kids, big kids, and adults alike! It combines clay and yarn for a mixed-media presentation with great texture and unlimited design potential. Clay is so great to work with that I’m always looking for new ways to use it, and this is a real original!

Yarn Wall Hanging on a Budget in a Few Easy Steps by DIY Candy

The concept and materials are so simple, yet this fringed wall hanging results in a really sophisticated look that can go with many decor themes. Anyone can do it with these clear, simple instructions.

The post Things to Make with Yarn without Knitting appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links. This post was originally published June 2017 but was updated to make it more relevant.

A while ago, I picked up a cheap pack of clothespins to use for crafting. I started by coating some in narrow duct tape ( which adheres better than washi tape) and gluing magnets to the back using this glue to display my son’s artwork on the fridge.

I never even shared that mini craft on the blog, but recently, I posted these fun puppets which  went viral on Facebook.

I began to learn just how diverse clothespin crafts can be, and how versatile they are. I still have so many clothespin crafts ideas in this overloaded brain of mine, and am working on something new now, but meanwhile I wanted to share some great ideas you’ll love!

And now, I’m off to work out what to do with mini clothespins, and off to buy me some colored ones!

Copyright:

All of the images for these clothespin crafts were used with the permissions of the respective bloggers for the purpose of this post. Click on the title link or image for the full tutorial. 

I have created a square and vertical image for your convenience for sharing these clothespin crafts. Please use the first or last image in this post when sharing and not one of the individual photos below, out of respect for the creators’ copyrights.

Cool Clothespin Crafts to Try Today!

Clothespin Puppets

Did you know that clothespins are perfect for making puppets? The idea popped into my head as I was playing with them, and now clothespin puppets are a classic. Try these ideas and then come up with your own! The best clothespins for these are the classic wooden ones.

Clothespin Paper Puppets

What an adorable craft! Use bright colors and make funny faces to act out your favorite story book!

Snowman Puppets

After the previous clothespin crafts hit it off, I decided to create a few more clothespin puppet designs. These snowmen add a new angle – literally!

Toilet Paper Roll Puppets

I even adapted these and added in a toilet paper roll version! I actually love this one so much – it adds loads of personality to these clothespin crafts!

Unicorn Puppets

For an extra cool spin, I made a unicorn version too! It’s even got braided mane!

Monster Fine Motor Puppets

One of the best features of clothespin crafts is the fine motor angle. On that note, when I created these monster puppets, I added a fine motor game to the mix.

Puppets by Adventure in a Box

These clothespins get turned into a STEAM project- so they are not only adorable, they’re educational! Get ready for a puppet show!

Clothespin People by Pink Stripey Socks

This is the perfect craft to express yourself. I can’t wait to get my family together around the table and just have fun drawing these!

Clothespin Dinosaur Craft by Crafts by Amanda

It doesn’t get better than this! These dinosaurs are so fun! I know my son will love making these come to life!

Clothespin Ballerinas by Live Craft Love

Aren’t these ballerinas undeniably sweet? Make a bunch, set up a stage and put on a show! It’ll keep your kids occupied for hours! Update: this post seems to not be live anymore. If you have an updated link please let me know!

More Clothespin Crafts for the Kids

Want more clothespin crafts for the little ones? These ideas are perfect for kids who like to have the “real” factor incorporated in their crafts – the kinds who love wood kits. But these are all budget friendly!

Clothespin Butterfly

You can arrange clothespins into virtually any shape, but isn’t it delightful when it just works out beautifully? This butterfly is so cheerful and you can paint it any color you’d like.

Clothespin Dragonfly

For an even cooler twist, try this yarn wrapped beauty! It shows how mixing wooden clothespins with loads of texture gives you a kids’ craft that is just full of personality!

Clothes peg Bi-Plane by Incredibusy

My son would go totally gaga over these! I can’t wait to try it out and personalize it with some paint and stickers. 

Sparkly Dragonflies by I Heart Crafty Things

The perfect craft for summer! This is a great way to get your kids talking about insects- and they’re glittery too! 

Clothespin Button Car Craft by Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls

This is a great clothespin craft to do with your kids- and it’s a toy that will last, and get used over and over again! 

Beautiful Clothespin Crafts for the home

Take it just a notch further and decorate your home with clothespin crafts! I Have more on the way, but for now, here are some favorite ideas!

Clothespin Stars

This is one of those crafts that just work out beautifully, and while they were made as ornaments, you can totally make them as tiered tray or shelf decor too! Paint them in the colors of the flag for Independence Day!

Clothespin Planter by Ribbons and Glue

I am obsessed with this clothespin craft. I love everything about it- the creativity, the use, the addition of the beautiful paper on the clothespins… it just puts a smile on my face! 

Clothespin Chandelier by Young House Love

How cool is this? This is such an inexpensive way to add a unique decor element to a room. Try making it with colored clothespins for a playroom! 

Clothespin Mirror by Mod Podge Rocks

This craft make such great use of clothespins. It’s easy, fun- and you can even change it up every season with new clothespins. 

Nautical Clothespin Candle Holder by Family Food and Faith

One day, when I have my dream house by the lake, I will be crafting these clothespin candle holders and leaving them all over the place. The link is no longer live – if you have an updated tutorial for this, please let me know so that I can add it!

Clothespin Trivets by the Country Chic Cottage

I don’t know about you, but in my house, I can never find a trivet when I need one. This craft is an easy, inexpensive way to make sure I always have one laying around. 

Washi Tape Clothespins by Make Life Lovely

This is such a cute way to decorate clothespins- add a magnet and stick ’em on your fridge (I personally use these to display my kids’ artwork) , or use these in some of the other crafts in this roundup. 

That’s all the clothespin crafts I have to share for now – but no worries! Looking at my craft stash, you can be sure that there will be more.

What are your favorite ways to craft with clothespins? Comment below!

The post Clothespin Crafts – 21 Things to Make with Clothes Pegs appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Who knew that something as simple as a little rope could have so many uses in your everyday crafting projects? Ropes are versatile and can be used to bring a nautical or outdoorsy, rustic touch to your DIY projects. There are so many cool things to make with rope that I’d love to share today!

You can find them in hardware stores such as Lowe’s, or on Amazon, but my personal favorite is the one that Dollar Tree has in their floral department. Rope comes in different textures, colors, and weights that can add great variety and personality to your crafts!

If you’re looking to use up the leftover rope from a previous project or looking for inspiration for something new, here are cool things you can make with rope using your own two hands. All of these projects are simple and easy, making them a great idea for crafters of any skill level.

Rope Containers and Baskets

Of all of the cool things to make with rope that I bumped into, baskets were a big one. They look so gorgeous in the home and are useful at the same time. By making them yourself, you not only save money but you also get to customize the exact size and design to suit your taste or match your home decor.

DIY No-Sew Rope Baskets by Happiness is Homemade

You may love the rope baskets that you see in the home decor stores but not the price tags. Did you know that you can make your own, in any size or shape without sewing? Happiness is Homemade shares how!

DIY Braided Jute Basket by The Merry Thought

This basket has a more complex, rustic look and can also be used as a tote. This tutorial from The Merry Thought is good for crafters who know how to sew a little. The braiding adds so much texture!

DIY Metallic Rope Throw Basket by Lydi Out Loud

Here’s another no-sew basket with some more complex elements this time. Lydi Out Loud adds a lining and some metallic touches to bring a simple rope basket to a luxe level. It just shows you that rope can look fabulous in home decor even if you’re NOT going for a nautical vibe.

DIY Rope Wrapped Planters by A Beautiful Mess blog

Looking for cool things to make with rope on a smaller scale? These planters are adorable and can be done quickly and simply, or can be dressed up with more designs as shown on A Beautiful Mess blog. I just love that dynamic color and texture that she added!

DIY Rope Vase by DIY Inspired

DIY Inspired creates an elegant new look by combining rope with glass, a concept that you can also extend by wrapping the rope around other types of vases or containers. It’s super easy and can be done with materials from thrift shops or dollar stores, but it will look like it came from an upscale boutique.

DIY Rope Basket by I Heart Organizing

Finally, we round out this section with instructions to make small baskets out of 100% rope. You need almost no materials for this one so you should be able to get started right away. I Heart Organizing added tassels to decorate these simple baskets; learn how to make yarn tassels here.

Rope Art and Decor

The distinctive texture and appearance of rope adds a unique element to any kind of artwork, whether it’s to hang on a wall or use elsewhere around the house. These cool things to make with rope are all going to add some pizzazz to your home.

Large Macrame Rainbow Wall Hanging by Moms and Crafters

An assortment of yarns makes for a fabulous wall hanging. Would you believe that the rope is sourced from the dollar store? Connect it with my favorite glue gun – this one from Cricut – and hang it in your kids’ room to add some charm. 

DIY Rope Curtain Tie Backs by The Crazy Craft Lady

Jute rope gives these curtain ties a simple, natural look that complements different room designs. The Crazy Craft Lady shows you how to make them easily with a low budget. Our windows are eagerly awaiting curtains, but when they get them, I’ll definitely be trying these!

DIY Finger Knit Rope Trivet by Flax and Twine

Finger knitting gives these trivets a sophisticated design while keeping the simplicity we love about rope. Try them in different colors and sizes, too. Flax & Twine’s detailed pictures will show you how.

How to Make a Rope Rug by Tidbits & Company

This rug idea from Tidbits & Company involves a more complex process than the smaller crafts above, but it pays off in a beautiful and functional rectangular floor mat that will truly enhance your home. What better way to invite people into your creative home than with a touch of DIY?

How to Make Rope Letters by Love Grown Wild

Here is a truly creative wall art idea, using simple supplies you may already own. You can use this technique by Love Grows Wild to display a word that inspires you, or a more functional or descriptive word that works for your space.

DIY Rope Tassel Keychains by Alice & Lois

These keychains are so simple to make while looking really classy. Alice & Lois adds complementing colors to the natural look of rope for these cute accessories. I love the multi-dimension layered look of these cool things to make with rope!

Make Your Own Rope Rug by A Beautiful Mess

This rug from A Beautiful Mess uses rope to provide the structure, while you’ll be other materials of your choice for the color and design. You’ll need some sewing skills and patience, but the results will be worth it! This is unlike anything you can find in a shop (or at least for a decent price!)

Pottery Barn Inspired DIY Jute Placemats by City Farmhouse

You can actually use these cool things to make with rope as chargers or trivets as well as placemats. They’re incredibly easy to make while, true to their name, looking like they came out of a designer catalog. City Farmhouse shows you how.

DIY Wrapped Rope Wall Art by Alice & Lois

If you liked the rainbow hanging linked above, you’ll also want to check out this variation. Alice & Lois show you how to use yarn wrapping and rope to make a simple wall hanging with lots of texture. It’s a more minimalist approach.

DIY Jute Rope Love Sign by Hymns & Verses

This is a similar concept to the rope letters above, but it gets a new twist by adding a background board and other design elements. You can try it in kids’ bedrooms with their names as well. Check it out at Hymns & Verses.

Rope Upgrades and Furnishings

Instead of using rope to make something totally new, you can also use it to upgrade or add a new look to objects you already own. You might even have something that you thought didn’t look good at all – maybe you received it as an unwanted gift or were about to throw it away – but with some rope magic it can be transformed into an artistic, decorative piece you’ll love to use!

DIY Woven Bench by The Merry Thought

Rope adds a boho Scandinavian style to this entryway bench by super DIY-er The Merry Thought. While this requires a trip to the hardware store for wood, and some power tools, the actually joint skills are very basic and totally beginner friendly.

Amazing DIY Upcycled Bar Stool by Farmhouse 40

A plain, hard barstool gets a bright, homey makeover in this tutorial by Farmhouse 40. Even if you don’t have a sad stool sitting around, you might find one at a thrift sale or use the idea to decorate a different object.

DIY Rope Chandelier Lighting Update by Remodelaholic

Lauren at Remodelaholic takes you step by step through the process of using rope to upgrade a boring chandelier, and you’ll want to pay attention because she really takes it to a new level! As you can see, some of the really cool things to make with rope include giving new love to old items, all on a dollar store budget!

DIY Rope Lamp by Style Me Pretty

A simple but beautiful project, Style Me Pretty shows you how to turn any plain lamp into a rustic, designer-looking decor piece.

Got any cool things to make with rope to add to this list? Comment below!

The post Cool Things to Make with Rope appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

As I explore my craft room for things to create, I like to start with materials. Let’s discuss feather crafts!

There are so many fun and beautiful things you can create using feathers. You can craft many unique things that go way beyond the traditional feather-on-canvas craft. Feathers are one of my favorite crafting items and for a good reason! They add a touch of warmth and spirit to any project.

These fun feather crafts include the perfect ideas for everyday home decor or for a new stylish accessory you didn’t know you needed. Each craft will use feathers in a fun and unique way to keep you guessing and help you come up with unique ways to use feathers in your crafting endeavors. 

Feathers go beyond the solid colorful ones of your childhood. Try smaller spotted feathers, unique duck or pheasant feathers, dramatic ostrich or peacock feathers or neutral turkey feathers. You can purchase solid colored packs for more specific projects too.

Here are the best feather crafts for any crafter to try.

Hanging Art Feather Crafts

When I say “feather” you think: wall art! Here are some ideas for different ways to make wall hangings and other hanging decor with feathers. Most of these really showcase the type of feather you use, so choose wisely and creatively!

DIY Feather Wall Hanging by Homey Oh My

A simple feather wall hanging doesn’t have to look tacky! Simply choose your feathers wisely and keep things neutral. This one just looks so good!

Gold-Dipped Feather Mobile by J Sorelle Blog

Feathers are so soft and fluffy, light and airy and cheerful! If you’re putting together a nursery in a neutral color scheme, but you want to keep it playful, this gold-dipped feather mobile is elegant and still fun for baby.

DIY Gold Tip Feather Garland by Simple Stylings

Or, use the gold-tipped feather trick to make a garland! Go for a wintry white vibe, fall browns, or cheerful colors for Spring and summer. Gold works with anything – your feathers don’t need to be white!

DIY Feather Art by Hunt and Host

A simple collection of feathers makes for gorgeous nature-inspired framed art! Because there’s nothing more artistic than nature itself! This tutorial uses one type of feathers lined up, but you can also make it with single feathers or collections of mixed feathers. 

How to Make a Feather Wreath by Hedgecombers

Add drama to your front door with one of nature’s most weather-hearty materials: feathers! Yup, they can be outdoor friendly too, although, if soaked, they may sag. But they’ll recover! Once again, you can keep it natural or go for any bright color combination, depending on the season.

Feather Decorations

Feathers can be used to decorate for all sorts of occasions. These ideas combine the soft look of feathers with more rustic materials and seasonal silhouettes to show you just how much you can do with them! 

Feather Trees by Down Redbud drive

Feathers can be adhered to any specifically shaped base to form a shape with style! But arranging feathers in layers can make a really cool Christmas tree for a mantel or other surface decor.

DIY Christmas Feather Tree Cones by The Things She Makes

Or try this variation with fluffier feathers for a softer look. Now what shapes will you try covering with feathers?!

Repurposed Earring Burlap and Feather Napkin Rings by DIY Inspired

This fabulous contrast in textures makes for some cool table decor to totally upgrade that special occasion! Mix burlap with repurposed jewelry and some feathers for added pizzaz and a masquerade vibe.

Feather Display by Songbird Blog

Simply arranging some feathers in an aesthetic display is a super fun and cool way to craft with them! The base really solidifies the whole look. You’ll want a cool mix of feathers for this one.

Feather Accessories

Of course, feathers make for fabulous accessories with a boho vibe! But while modern boho tends to inspire neutrals, why not include some fun colors like your hippie Grandma would have loved?

Feather Earrings by Moms and Crafters

Craft these sweet feather earrings using neon feathers in mini sizes. Of course, you can make these with small feathers in browns and whites – and gold – if you’re going more for the aesthetic shared above. But I just love the color in this set. 

Dream Catcher Necklace by Moms and Crafters

Or, go all-out with the boho situation and make a dream catcher necklace! Yes, home decor CAN make cool jewelry too! I just love those little felt flowers.

Red, White, and Blue DIY Feather Hair Clips by DIY Inspired

A is the queen of hair clips and I totally want to make these for her! The feathers make the flowers that much more special. And while this was created specifically in red, white and blue to be patriotic, you can make it evergreen or specific to another season as well. 

How To Make A Beautiful No-Sew Feather Bird Mask by Blue Bear Wood

Of course, bird crafts might be an obvious choice for feather crafts. But you can totally think out of the box with that too! For example, this feather mask is so beautiful, you’ll want to make it for a dress-up or masquerade at any time of year! It can also be part of a costume. 

Thing 1 and Thing 2 Pencils by Moms and Crafters

Bright turquoise feathers are reminiscent of the mischievous Thing 1 and Thing 2’s wild mane. So why not make fun themed pencils using feathers? I used mini red duct tape to cover the base and made a simple glued-on “Thing” badge.

Washi Tape Feather Topped Pens by The Crafting chicks

Or, top pens with feathers without making it a specific theme! This fun idea is totally giftable and makes a great party favor or group gift solution.

More Feather Crafts

These feather crafts are good for any occasion and any time (even the ones that are more specifically themed). They didn’t fit anywhere else, so I’m putting them here. 

Gold Dipped Feathers by Lollyjane

So you saw all the gold dipped feathers above, but why not create a fun spin-off? Any of the gold feather crafts above can be done using glittered feathers instead, following this tutorial, for more of a glam factor. Or switch off between regular gold and glitter gold.

DIY Painted Feathers by Free People

Love rock painting? Did you know that feathers can also serve as a nature-derived surface for your art? This tutorial shows you how to accomplish that. When you’re done, scroll back up and see some ideas for what you can create with your painted feathers!

Oh-So-Simple Boho-Inspired Hoop Christmas Ornaments by A Pretty Fix

Letting feathers take the spotlight is a fabulous way to showcase their beauty. While these were created as ornaments, you can make it in large scale (with large feathers) as a wall hanging, or in mini (with tiny feathers) as jewelry, keychains or other fun crafts.

Feather Craft Diva Duck by Blue Bear Wood

Feather’s all about the fashion, and diva duck just shows it! This feather craft is way out of the box and I love it! Get as creative as you like, and use up your old colors to bust your stash. 

Gold Leafed Feather Gift Wrap Idea by The Crafting Chicks

Back to the gold feathers, this one uses a gold leaf technique to embellish for a solid, smooth metallic finish! It was used as part of gift wrap, but once again, you can use it for anything you’d like.

Got any favorite feather crafts to add to the list? Comment below!

The post 18+ Feather Crafts to Display, Wear, and Enjoy! appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Am I the only one with a huge pile of buttons that I have collected over the years? While assembling this list of ideas for crafting with buttons, I realized that I really haven’t done that much with them, and need to get started STAT!

Buttons are such a versatile crafting tool and can be made to create designs on a canvas or add a little fun to jewelry. If you want to start crafting with buttons, there are many great craft ideas out there to help you get started!

There are many ways to start crafting with buttons: you can make use of that pile of spare buttons from outfits you haven’t seen in years. You can stock up on colorful ones. You can find them in cute shapes or with printed designs.

Here are the best crafts to make with buttons!

Crafting With Buttons with Toddlers & Preschoolers

Buttons do present a choking hazard for kids who still mouthe things, so make sure to supervise closely! 

They do present a fabulous opportunity for fine motor practice, making crafting with buttons fabulous for the little ones! Including them in DIY toys and activities for those age groups allows them to learn real life dressing skills. And simply using it as a glue-on for various art projects encourages pincer grasp skills! Of course, it adds tons of texture to projects.

To start, you’ll want a stash of solid colored buttons both in traditional circles and simple shapes.

Fine Motor Flowers by Moms and Crafters

Toddlers and preschoolers benefit from loads of fine motor practice. And what better way to do that than with real life skills? This is actually a toy that parents make for their kids, but the kids do the “final touch” by matching colors and buttoning them together. Use colorful buttons and felt scraps along with craft sticks for this simple project.

Button Snake by Happy Hooligans

Here’s another buttoning-up skill-building activity that can be accomplished by crafting with buttons! Make a button snake for toddlers to assemble on their own! Oh how fun!

Framed Button Heart by Carrie Elle

Simply filling in a space with buttons can make for a fabulous toddler-friendly art project! This heart is fun for a toddler or preschooler-made gift for a parent. If making it with toddlers, you may want to make the button area more distinct by coloring it or by making it from a construction-paper cutout and only afterward gluing it to a background. You can also simply apply the glue only to the correct area for your tot.

Button Photo Wreath by Hello Wonderful

This craft just shows how by gluing buttons, kids as young as toddlers can make an aesthetically-pleasing, functional craft! You can make this for any time of year.

Ladybug Button Art Craft by Easy Peasy and Fun

Here’s another fun idea for crafting with buttons with younger kids! They can use it as a mosaic for art projects such as this ladybug. What a fabulous craft to ring in Spring!

Button Earth Craft by Non Toy Gifts

Or, go for Earth Day vibes by making a button earth craft! You get a color-matching element here, and the toddlers and preschoolers can do whichever parts of the project they are capable of.

Button Snail Craft by I Heart Arts n’ Crafts

This snail craft shows just how crafting with buttons can be combined with other recyclable crafts! And the stiff base is super sturdy for buttons too. Craft the snail for spring, for learning the letter S, or whatever else makes you feel snail-y!

Fine Motor Skills Felt Flower Button Snake Craft by Kids Activities Blog

Want a combination of my felt flower craft and Happy Hooligans’s button snake? This felt flower button snake makes that adorable combo! Now try it with other shapes too.

Button Binoculars Craft by Kids Craft Room

While not an integral or functional part of the final project, I wanted to include these button binoculars to show how crafting with buttons can add dimension to any project! These binoculars are a fun pretend play toy for preschoolers, and buttons make fun embellishments. 

Ideas for Kids for Crafting with Buttons

As kids grow a little older, they can start crafting with buttons in a more functional manner. Their art projects become a little more advanced. But still, the colorful, quirky appeal of buttons only gets stronger. This is where you can start going beyond the colorful craft mixes of buttons and start mixing in more eclectic mixes of assorted sewing buttons.

Button Bracelets by Red Ted Art

Get kids started with some super simple sewing skills using buttons! These button bracelets are fun for kids to make and a mess-free project too! They can take it on the go, work on it in school or on the bus, and store their in-progress projects in a bag in their backpack. These button bracelets make fabulous friendship bracelets too!

Button Art & Button Cards by Red Ted Art

Crafting with buttons takes on a whole new dimension when kids start adding in their art skills. Greeting cards are a fabulous way to turn artwork into a craft. Using the buttons as a starting point not only helps kids be creative, but it also adds color and texture to the final project.

Button Bracelets by Mum in the Madhouse

Another totally different take on button bracelets: use them as charms! While the above bracelet was more make-on-the-go compatible, this idea for crafting with buttons is fabulous for your aspiring jewelry designer.

Button Stick Tree Craft by Hello Wonderful

For kids who feel less artsy, a freeform sculpture can be a fabulous form of self-expression. This button and stick craft is fun for even the less crafty and is a cool classroom craft idea!

Button Flowers Canvas by Easy Peasy and Fun

Kids can also use buttons on their canvas art projects! And what better way to do that than… flowers?! As you can see, we’ve been crafting with buttons to make lots of flower projects, and that’s because they make the perfect flower centers. 

Cardinal Button Craft by Adventure in a Box

Here’s a bit of a more advanced button art project for your big kids! The bright red cardinal does not need to be saved for Christmas – it’s a fun art project for any time of year.

Button STEM challenge by The Educators Spin On It

This fun STEM activity can be customized for any age group! Simply adapt the type of clay you use for the kids you’re making it with. Young kids can use play dough and older kids can use air dry clay or Model Magic. You can take it apart or allow it to dry and keep it as sculptures.

Teens & Adults Ideas for Crafting with Buttons

There is no age cap on crafting with buttons! Some of the above art projects are fabulous for teens and adults too, but here are some that are so sophisticated looking, we know even your teen will dig it!

When looking for buttons to craft with for older kids and adults, you’ll want to go a bit more sophisticated. Wood buttons are an inexpensive, lightweight winner and come in all sorts of finishes and prints. Sewing button mixes give you an eclectic and shabby chic assortment. And if using plastic colorful buttons, opt for smaller and more muted colors, mother-of-pearl finishes, translucent buttons, and other more polished looks. 

Button Apple Canvas by Mum in the Madhouse

A simple apple on a minimalist background makes for some fabulous art! Try it with other shapes too! And if you have loads of buttons of the same color in different shades, try adding some shading too!

Felt Button Flower Magnets by Kids Activities Blog

These flower button magnets make super cool locker or fridge magnets! You can use any non-fray fabric for the button and get creative with which buttons you use for a totally customized look.

Easy Summer Button Starfish by A Cultivated Nest

I love the layered and shaded look of this beachy summer decor! This piece just shows how choosing the right buttons, even when using colorful ones, can give you a totally upgraded touch.

Button Magnets, Bookmarks, and Necklaces by The Life of Jennifer Dawn

When crafting with buttons that are more unique, letting them have the spotlight is the way to go! This mini-roundup shows five unique crafts (tutorials are in the post itself) that use buttons and really showcase their style!

Cute as a Button DIY Photo Frame Craft by Artsy Craftsy Mom

Use buttons to make an adorable little photo frame! The sampled project has more of a kids’ vibe, but you can totally make it more mature, and I really do love it as a grown-up craft too.

DIY Burlap Button Flower Garden Wall Art by Artsy Craftsy Mom

Buttons are so playful, making them a fab choice for nursery wall art! You can go as small or as grand as you want with this one!

Button Globe by Happiness is Homemade

To finish this off with a craft that will take your breath away, this button globe is wow! It just shows how buttons can be used to “color” or paint with much more texture and interest than just paint would accomplish! So cool!

Do you absolutely love crafting with buttons – and other fun materials? Hit the P button to pin this blog post and save it for later! Or, email it to a friend to share.

The post 22+ Ideas for Crafting with Buttons appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Bead crafts come in all forms, types, and shapes. A while back, I shared cool things to make with beads that aren’t jewelry, and they were so popular, that I decided it’s about time for a follow up.

Today’s post focuses on bead crafts for kids, both jewelry and not.

Not only do beads add a cool and authentic element to all types of kids’ crafts, when stringing them, they help children build fine motor skills too.

Types of bead crafts for kids

Beads come in many types, shapes, and sizes – as do kids. So some of these bead crafts for kids look more grown-up but are beginner-friendly and will appeal to those kids who think big.

More kid-friendly bead types include pony beads, wood beads, and fuse (iron) beads.

But kids don’t need to be limited to kids’ beads! Give them the 3mm metal beads to add accents to their friendship bracelets! Let them play with glass beads and lower-end gemstones! But most importantly of all: use these bead crafts for kids as a starting point to encourage them to come up with their own ideas.

Because kids can blow you away with their creativity when given the chance!

18 Bead Crafts for Kids

Bead and Jewelry Making Crafts for Kids

I figure, we’ll start with jewelry making ideas, as those are the classics that you think of when you make bead crafts for kids.

Wood beads give jewelry a real look, and seed beads are a throwback to my own childhood.

Beaded Friendship Bracelet by Moms and Crafters

Friendship bracelets were a mainstay of my childhood, but did you know that you can add beads to them? This gorgeous, delicate tutorial incorporates 3mm metal spacer beads into a classic bracelet that’s really easy to learn.

DIY Felt Necklace by Moms and Crafters

While this felt necklace is more stitching craft than beading, it shows how beads can be included into many different types of kids’ crafts. It’s a bit more advanced than most of the ideas on this list but definitely still tween-friendly, with a bit of skill-building on the way.

Heart Friendship Bracelet by Moms and Crafters

Square wood beads and Sharpies make this a Valentine’s Day or any day favorite for kids who are too young – or don’t have the patience – to sit and knot endlessly.

Pony Bead Crown by Where Imagination Grows

Younger kids can practice fine motor skills by making their own beaded tiaras for some cool hair jewelry!

Beaded Flower Bracelet by My Paper Pony

Using kid-friendly pony beads to make a classic daisy chain bracelet is a great way to teach very basic beginner beading skills. I’d try this from age eight for a more crafty kid, and a bit older for the less craft-inclined.

Beaded Wrap Bracelet by The DIY Dreamer

As a tween and young teen in the 00’s , I used pastel seed beads to make stacks of elastic bracelets. This tutorial shows you how to make a wrap version. It’s the perfect craft for kids who need real boredom busters – those projects that are easy to learn, but take time to complete. It’s almost like a fidget, too!

Non-Jewelry Bead Crafts for Kids

Let’s not stop at jewelry! There are so many non-wearable bead crafts for kids, that there’s no point in limiting ourselves! These ideas are for the older set – more ideas for the younger set below.

Fuse Bead Keychains by Moms and Crafters

I made these fuse bead keychains using the smART Pixelator that lets you pixelate any design. These are super fun and addictive, and you can make them for all your friends! Finish them off with simple ball chains in fun colors.

DIY Beaded Trivet by Moms and Crafters

While most kids don’t have their own home to decorate, there’s nothing like a fully functional kid-made gift for Mother’s Day or the winter holidays! These beaded trivets use (roughly) 20mm wood beads to make a long string that’s coiled to hold pots and pans. So easy!

Beaded Name Keychains by Moms and Crafters

Wood beaded name keychains make a fabulous friendship craft for swapping! And the boys – who can sometimes be a bit more reluctant crafters – enjoy these too.

Tetris Magnet Craft by Moms and Crafters

Another 90’s inspired craft, these Tetris magnets are perfect for lockers! Square wood beads are glued together to make any shape you want.

Hashtag Magnet Craft by Moms and Crafters

A spinoff of the Tetris magnets, these hashtag magnets are also made from wood beads glued together. You can use wood glue, tacky glue, e6000 – it’s a pretty flexible craft.

Beaded Lizard Craft by Moms and Crafters

Another one that’ll appeal to both the boys and girls, beaded lizards teach basic bead weaving. And for a more functional finish, add a keychain and make them as gifts!

Jelly Fish Bead Craft by Crafts by Amanda

Work those fine motor skills with these open-ended hanging jellyfish. What a clever craft! Older kids may want to work with a more sophisticated color palette, while younger kids will go crazy…

Bead Crafts for Toddlers and Preschool

Beading has an incredible fine motor benefit, especially for younger kids. Just watch those faces scrunch up in concentration when they make these bead crafts for kids!

Pony beads are absolutely my bead of choice for these. Keep in mind that beads present a choking hazard, so they should not be done with kids who tend to mouth things, and they should always be closely supervised.

And finally, even if your toddler can’t complete the entire craft, by being able to build fine motor skills and do a significant part of the process, the craft will still feel like it’s theirs.

Beaded Spider Craft by Moms and Crafters

A friendly spider is the perfect craft for learning about the color black – or for Halloween! I recommend getting all black pony beads for this one – it’ll make your life so much easier!

Beaded Snowflake Craft by That Kids Craft Site

Learn about winter, or celebrate Christmas with simple beaded snowflakes. These can be turned into ornaments – or not.

Fused Bead Rainbow Suncatcher by Fireflies and Mudpies

The translucent beads on this rainbow makes for a gorgeous sun catcher! Just watch that thing sparkle when the rays hit it – isn’t it fab?!

Simple Bead Necklace by STEAMsational

While most of the jewelry crafts above are for the older set, even toddlers can build fine motor skills using beads. Just keep it simple, like with this necklace.

Pipe Cleaner Butterfly Bead Craft by WhimsyRoo

As you can see, by beading pipe cleaners you can form so many shapes! This butterfly is perfect for Spring.

What are your favorite bead crafts for kids? Comment below!

The post Bead Crafts for Kids appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

I have made a lot of air drying clay projects that I’ve shared in this space, so I can sing the praises of this versatile yet amazing product!

Air dry clay is so easy to work with, it dries without an oven, and you can use it to make everything from homemade jewelry to home decor. Air dry clay is an easy craft that teens and tweens can do, and there are so many different kinds of air dry clay you can use.

Crayola‘s is best for kids’ crafts and I love Sculpey Air for more detailed projects, such as jewelry making. Das is my favorite for home decor crafts, especially those near flames (such as candle holders).

Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced crafter, this natural and non-toxic clay is a versatile and great crafting material. Here are 15+ things to make with air drying clay.

In this post:

• Air Drying Clay Jewelry
• Things to Make with Air Drying Clay – Dishes and Trinkets
• Air Drying Clay Home Decor

Air Drying Clay Jewelry

My first clay crafts were jewelry crafts, and it’s still a fabulous medium for that! There are so many things to make with air drying clay that you can wear – these jewelry ideas are just a drop in the bucket!

How to Make Clay Rose Earrings

Learn how to make simple earrings out of air dry clay with these beautiful clay rose earrings. If you’ve ever made fondant roses for a cake, you’ll find that this method is quite similar. Did you realize you can use that for jewelry too? Seal it with Mod Podge Super Gloss for an absolutely gorgeous finish.

Seashell Necklace 

Use real shells to make a beautiful summer-themed necklace with this seashell necklace idea. And if you don’t have shells, or don’t live next to a beach, you can get crafting shells online! Can you believe that I used chalk pastel shavings to add texture to one of these? The teal shell has crushed glass glitter!

Friendship Necklaces

Your kids will love making these fun and easy friendship necklaces together. It’s a fun idea to craft for sleepovers and play dates – and perfect for your tween! Tween crafting features some of my favorite things to make with air drying clay.

DIY Geometric Clay Earrings

Follow this tutorial to make five different geometric clay earrings out of air dry clay! It just goes to show you that air drying clay can look super classy if you keep things streamlined and minimalist. With the right finish of paint, there are so many incredible things to make with air drying clay!

Hair Tie Bracelet

Never worry about not having a hair tie handy with this cool bracelet idea. I was inspired to make these when I saw this bracelet one day. Color shift paint gives this a pretty and playful metallic sheen.

Paper Clay Pendants 

Use this air dry clay pendant idea to make your own heart shaped necklace or bracelet. And you might want to give other things to make with air drying clay a try using this method for making paper clay!

Things to Make with Air Drying Clay – Dishes and Trinkets

Another popular first clay project tends to be trinket dishes… and there’s good reason for that! It’s simple, provides a large surface for adding style, and there’s always use for another!

Handmade Clay Tray

Use flowers and air dry clay to make this easy statement piece for your home. What a beautiful way to create art with nature! Combine it with a nature walk for a fun summer camp project, or make it as part of an open-ended art workshop.

Air Dry Clay Bowl Unicorn Craft

Oh my, how fun is this unicorn bowl? A fun keepsake for friends and family, your kids will love making their own unicorn-themed dishes. It’s fabulous for your tween’s dresser, to collect hair ties and more.

How to Make an Easy Air Dry Clay Trinket Dish

Make a beautiful trinket dish to hold all your jewelry with this creative DIY. The texture on this dish shows just how upscale you can go with air drying clay. I keep a dish just like this for rings right next to my kitchen sink.

How to Make Air Dry Clay Bowls 

These rustic clay bowls are so simple and unique! They’re perfect for holding small pieces or even your keys. Drop one on the entry table, on your dresser and nightstand, or anywhere the loose change tends to congregate.

Air Drying Clay Home Decor

There are so so many home decor things to make with air drying clay! These will get you started, but take it further and experiment with even more!

DIY Clay Candle Holders

These candle holders are a fool-proof craft that looks just like hammered metal. The finish was accomplished using brushed metal paints. I researched heavily which is the best clay for flame-resistance and recommend using this one.

Clay Wall Vase

Why stick to table vases when you can have wall vases?! Add some succulents or flowers to make a beautiful vase for your wall that is simple and easy to pull together. What a unique twist on things to make with air drying clay!

DIY Clay Maps

Use these clay maps to learn about countries or display countries that you’ve visited in your home. Kid scan play with them or learn new facts about the people who live there, enabling them to become world citizens.

Mini Coastal Clay Houses

Create a beachy getaway from your own home with these clay houses made out of air dry clay. You can make a winter variation on this too! Just make the homes wintry instead of coastal…

Monster Craft Invitation

Your kids will love making these adorable little monsters with this magnetic monster craft. I used a flower shaped cookie cutter on rolled out air drying clay. Kids were able to paint it with tempera paint sticks and add whichever details they wanted. It made for a fabulous open-ended party craft.

Air Dry Clay Wall Hanging

This beautiful dream catcher is the perfect air dry clay wall hanging for your home. It’s all in the painted detail and is another one of my favorite things to make with air drying clay for craft workshops.

Indoor Fairy Garden Terrarium

Make a cool fairy garden that you can keep indoors with the help of air dry clay. This was originally a KiwiCo kit – but I turned it into a fairy garden. Can you spot the clay fairy?

Botanical Clay Wall Hanging

Use air dry clay to make these floral pieces for a wire detail wall art design in your home. What a fabulous way to celebrate the different things that grow in your garden!

DIY Incense Holder

This fun and easy craft project is great for keeping bugs away or to hold your incense indoors. Minimalist but well-thought-out patterns make them look like they came from a high end home decor boutique! Your friends will be asking you to make these for them too!

How To Make Mini Clay Succulents

These faux plants are so adorable and perfect for home decor, office decor, or to keep in your child’s room for a pop of greenery. The faces on the front will make you smile. You can even add these to the fairy garden above!

What are your favorite things to make with air drying clay? Comment below!

The post Things to Make with Air Drying Clay appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Nail polish has been my favorite unconventional craft supply for a while now. I always have colors that I did not end up liking, or older polishes that are too thick to really use. I also love getting fun colors on the cheap from inexpensive brands.

If you’re just getting started with nail polish crafts, start with your collection, and add in a multi-pack of colors to have handy. Some nail polish crafts require special polishes. For example, some will call for a crackle effect, some a glitter. But having a rainbow of colors handy will definitely jump start you for most of these. For effects, go for a brand you trust. For solids, use up the cheap brands that you didn’t like!

14+ Fun Nail Polish Crafts

Fashion Upgrades Using Nail Polish

Upgrade an old pair of bangles in minutes! Painted bangles are so much prettier than plain ones. Notice how the texture shows right through.

These neon chain earrings by A Splendid Assemblage are genius and chic! Jewelry making skills involved are very basic and the result is awesome.

Funky and fun seashell earrings use nail polish in a surprising way! (Hint: it’s not used a a paint in this case).

Upgrade sunglasses to mimic a designer pair in a simple craft by Real Girl Runway. I can see any teen or tween digging this one!

Make a gorgeous faux Druzy bottle cap necklace as well as druzy studs, using nail polish for a beautiful gilded edge. Using glass glitter really upgrades things on these.

The possibilities are endless for these mini sunglasses charms! You can adapt it as a pair of shades for your child’s favorite Barbie-style doll too!

Turn acrylic cabochons into beautiful jewelry using nail polish in this wire wrapped cabochon tutorial!

Pair Eyewear are glasses with interchangeable toppers/fronts so that you can easily switch up your look. Snack Rules teaches how to customize your own toppers using nail polish (and other methods).

Make faux gemstone beads and then turn them into fun wrap bracelets with an easy and trendy tutorial!

Colorful Craft Corner made a super cool dragonfly pendant from wire and… you guessed it! Nail polish, of course!

This is one on the top of my to-do list! Make these minimalist color blocked stud earrings by In Honor of Design in minutes!

Make these color blocked bobby pins by  The Thinking Closet on the quick and cheap! Stack ’em up and give ’em to friends!

I was always a big fan of these washer necklaces by Sunhats and Wellie Boots. Make a bunch, wear a few at once, and give them out to friends.

Nail Polish Crafts for the home

Get crafty in the kitchen with these enameled teaspoons. What a lovely hostess or housewarming gift!

One of my favorites of all time, this dipped rainbow candle is a beauty! It uses one color at a time, with the translucent quality of nail polish really shining, and the hydrodipping technique giving a gorgeous texture.

Color code your keys with a fun idea from A Bubbly Life:

If you can create art on nails, why not make it on canvas? This art canvas by Inner Child Fun can star in the perfect gallery wall.

Use puffy fabric paint and fill in the spaces with nail polish to make pretty decorated bowls for condiments, keys, jewelry, or whatever you’d like.

Gilded agate coasters from Thou Swell are chicer than plain agate coasters and so easy to make!

These marble dipped vessels by Sugar and Cloth look like they’re made of real marble! The result is amazing.

More things to make with nail polish

This heart magnet has a beautiful enameled look thanks to nail polish. You can also make this on flat wood squares to place on a card.

Check out these chunky wooden alphabet magnets by Arts and Crackers – they are so cool. I am sure your little one will love it!

Crafting Ireland teaches how to make versatile enamel dots as used in this pretty card.

 Glitter Magnets by Finding Zest are another easy and functional craft your tween will love!

Make these adorable custom pencils for back to school, by Arts and Crackers. Click the image for the full tutorial.

The Craft Train shares this rock painting genius – use nail polish to craft ladyrock bugs! She shares some tips for using the nail polish with kids too.

You’ll want to store these marbled makeup brushes by A Bubbly Life out in the open. (A clear makeup container does the trick.)

Add sparkle to your home with glittery snow flakes by Muslin and Merlot.

Want to learn how to make jewelry out of anything (including nail polish!?) Get the book!

What nail polish craft ideas can you add to the list? Comment below!

Want more? Check up my follow-up post – featuring NAIL POLISH HACKS – alternative ways to use your nail polish (other than crafting).

The post The Best Nail Polish Crafts appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Some of my favorite things to make are things to make with leather scraps. Leather can be quite pricey, and not only do you not want to waste a teensy bit, you also might not want to buy full size pieces to begin with.

Enter leather scrap bundles… I just adore these. They include so many unique finds!!

Where to get leather scraps for crafts

Maybe you have piles of leftover leather from projects… but of all the crafts out there, leather scrap crafters tend to buy their sraps.

So where do you get affordable leather for crafting? Here are a few of my favorite picks. Keep in mind that these are mostly scrap bundles, so they vary greatly and I can only share my personal experiences trying these:

• Blick Art Supplies – this is one of my favorite leather scrap bundles for jewelry making especially. There were more small scraps in this one, but some with incredibly unique textures and colors.
• Michaels – I find that these tend to have mostly blacks and browns (though I’m not guaranteeing that at all! This is just my experience from what I’ve purchased). I sometimes get a few nice sheets of other colors. I also have gotten slightly larger pieces – just barely enough to make things like luggage tags, credit card wallets, etc.
• Etsy – many leather crafters will sell off their scraps. I’d definitely recommend looking into the listing description closely, as some will show a huge box with all their scraps rather than what you’re getting. Don’t rely only on the images.
• Ebay – is similar but maybe a bit more commercialized. I’ve seen lots of upholstery leather scraps there (which are also great for crafting).
• Cricut – Finally, while these are not quite scraps, they are more affordable pieces of small batch leather that’s great for these crafts to make with leather scraps, and for when you’re looking to save. Mostly available in 12×12 sheets, these are perfect for your Cricut crafts, but also great for others. They’re fantastic for when you’re trying to fill a shop with small leather projects you can repeat accurately.

Things to Make with Leather Scraps

Leather Jewelry Crafts

Jewelry is my go-to for any kind of scrap busting projects, but especially leather jewelry looks so chic!

DIY Leather Earrings

Your smallest scraps will look fantastic on leather earrings! You can really use itty bitty scraps for these, engrave them, paint them, iron onto them, or just keep them as is. The post linked above has LOADS of ideas, so head on over and check it out!

Woven Leather Bracelet

These woven leather bracelets are so easy to assemble and have gotten me loads of compliments! These are ideal for those longer strips of scraps. You can even use thin ribbons that are too small to run through a cutting machine for the center part if you want.

DIY Leather Hoop Earrings

What do you do when you see some cool bling but you’re not about to dish out $$ for it? If you’re a crafter, you make it! I saw these online, but decided to go the DIY route. Using a scrap of leather with a super cool texture really upped the chic factor.

DIY Leather Dangle Earrings

When my brother first saw them he said “cool, taco earrings!” What a brotherly thing to say! Either way, I loved them to death back when I made them. No cutting machine is required for these either.

Leather Bow Cuff Bracelet

A leather bow cuff acts as an accessory more than bling, but it’s really really pretty! You’ll need a slightly larger scrap – but still a scrap! You’ll also do best with soft garment leather, rather than stiffer leather (I’ve gotten a mix in the scrap packs I bought).

Magic Leather Braid Bracelet

The braid on this bracelet comes together magically so that the ends remain connected! It’s so much fun to make, you’ll want one in every color to match your wardrobe.

Leather Accessory Crafts

Go beyond jewelry with some super cool, super giftable accessories made from scraps! Many of these were gifts and some were also made from faux leather, but you can definitely try each and every craft in this section using real leather scraps.

DIY Leather Keychain

There’s nothing like personalization for gift giving! WE made these from faux leather for lots of M’s friends as drive-by birthday gifts. Then when Daddy’s birthday came around the boys said “we need to make him a keychain!” So we made his from real leather scraps for him.

DIY Glasses Case

Carry your shades (or regular glasses) in style! If you have a piece large enough – which many scrap packs do come with – you can give this adorable glasses case a go! lt’s super slim too, making it easy to toss into a handbag. Or, gift it! It’s easy to get right the first time with a free template.

DIY Flower Hair Accessories

These flower hair ties were made for my nieces as gifts, using faux leather. But there’s no reason you can’t make them from those pretty scraps in your stash. I even used leather rivets to put these together.

Crochet & Leather Bow

I love contrasting textures, and there’s something cool about cozy crochet and cool leather combined in one project. This is another hand cut project that can use your smallest scraps.

Ribbon & Leather Hair Bow

Here, I treated small leather strips as ribbon to make cool hair bows for Princess A. Again, I contrasted chic, shiny leather with softer lace.

Leather Pencil Cap

A sweet gift for the men in your life, these pencil caps are great for that guy who always has one sticking out of his front pocket. Let it look a little classier!

DIY Leather Cufflinks

Take your smallest scraps and turn them into an incredibly cool personalized gift! These monogrammed cufflinks can be made with literally any type of leather scrap (although some types of leather take better to stamping than others).

Leather Trimmed Scarf

Projects like this that use leather strips are cool, because they’re really easy to hand cut. Just use a knife and steel ruler to keep you on the straight-and-narrow. Here, it once again contrasts with something that’s a bit more of a “cozy” look for an incredible textured effect. This cowl scarf is totally unisex too!

DIY Leather Coin Pouch

This coin purse is incredibly simple and brilliant and so so fun to carry! It’s a cute idea for those of us who still always need a stash of quarters for parking.

Leather Crafts for the Home

I am obsessed with leather in the home! I’m a big fan of texture over prints when it comes to home decorating, and leather just oozes that texture – whether in large scale uphostery, or small things to make with leather scraps like these.

Leather Plant Label

What a cool way to both label plant pots and upgrade them!

Leather Valet Tray

One of the cool things about making this leather valet tray from scraps is that its size is not an exact science, so you can customize it to the size of your scrap! It’s great as a key/sunglasses drop zone in entryways, a ring tray, or a valet tray.

DIY Leather Drawer Pulls

While I’ve seen this look in kitchens too, leather scraps work best on smaller projects. So give that dresser upgrade a fashion-forward twist with leather pulls! And since you’re using scraps, they likely don’t even cost more than real pulls would cost (and possibly much less).

What are your favorite things to make with leather scraps? Comment below!

The post Things to Make With Leather Scraps: Home, Jewelry, Accessories, and more! appeared first on Moms and Crafters.