Archive for February, 2008

How to Make a Seasonal Wreath

Monday, February 18th, 2008

A fun and festive way to decorate is to make a seasonal wreath. These decorations are easy to make and can work for any season or occasion.

To start making a wreath, you will need the following supplies:

 A plain, grapevine wreath. Any size works, but consider where it will be hung and how much money you want to spend before picking any size.
 A hot glue gun and glue sticks.
 Scissors and wire cutters
 Silk flowers, plants or other decorations. You can also use live flowers and plants, but realize that the wreath will only last for a week at the most.
 Wire edge ribbon – coordinated to match any flowers, plants, or decorations you’re going to add.
 Florist wire or chenille stems

Once you’ve gathered your supplies, lay the wreath on flat work surface – you may want to cover the surface with some newspaper to protect it from the hot glue and loose pieces from the wreath.

Cut the flowers and plants from the plastic stalk. Place the flowers around the edge of the wreath.  You can cluster them in certain spots or space them all around the wreath.  Try to make the arrangement look natural by varying the lengths of the flowers and by not making the flowers look too symmetrical. Weave the stems of the flowers and plants through the openings in the wreath, so they hold pretty well on their own and then glue them.

Unroll a few feet of the ribbon, glue one end of the ribbon on the underside of the wreath, and then wrap the ribbon around the wreath – you can either wrap it loosely, leaving gaps between the wreath and ribbon, or you can wrap it more tightly. It’s all about your own preferences. Try to go between the flowers and plants. Glue the ribbon to the wreath while you wrap. Once you get to where you initially glued the ribbon, cut the ribbon, and glue the end to the other.

From this point, you can start to get really creative – add any other decorations with the hot glue. You can also add some more ribbon or bows. You can attach the bow with hot glue or by wrapping florist wire around it and the wreath. Finally, use some more florist wire or a chenille stem to make a loop and attach to the back of wreath to hang it.

There are so many options to customizing your seasonal wreath to fit with a particular season or holiday. Be creative and open-minded in gathering ornaments and plants for your wreaths – you’ll be surprised at the many different ideas and things you’ll come up with.

The first holiday that comes to mind when making wreaths is Christmas. You can use natural elements like evergreens, poinsettias, red berries, or pinecones.  Other decorations could include candy canes, Christmas-themed cookie cutters, bells, cinnamon sticks, glass ball ornaments, or battery-operated lights.

While most people expect Christmas wreaths, you can make wreaths for the fall. One unexpected holiday wreath you can make is a Halloween wreath. Give a wreath a spooky touch by using black flowers. Can’t find black floral? Buy some red roses and spray-paint them black, leaving just hints of red to make them look dead. You could also stretch some cotton spiderwebs around the wreath, adding plastic spider rings here and there. If spooky wreaths aren’t your taste, you can make an autumn wreath by just adding fall foliage, gourds, small pumpkins, or ears of corn.

You can also make a spring or Easter wreath by weaving in pretty spring flowers like tulips or daffodils. Bunny figurines, wooden carrots, or Easter eggs add a nice touch also.

A summertime wreath could include summer flowers, like daisies, or have a beach theme using seashells. Another summer theme for a wreath could be the Fourth of July, using red, white, and blue ribbon, along with flags and wooden or metal stars.

Wreaths are such versatile decorations and you can use them year-round. The possibilities are endless, as long as your imagination is, too.

How to Incorporate Your Own Style when Following a Crafting Pattern

Sunday, February 17th, 2008

It’s easy to follow a crafting pattern exactly – it’s probably a good idea to do that as a beginner. However, as you become more experienced in crafting, the next challenge is to learn how to incorporate your own style when following a crafting pattern.

The first step in incorporating your own style is to have a good idea of what your personal style actually is. Once you understand what your likes and dislikes are, you can branch out and create new ideas based on those factors. When you know what your style is, you can feel more freedom in your projects, which will lead to more creativity.

There are a few ways to figure out and focus in on your personal style. One way is to read crafting magazines and books. Don’t look through these books and magazines with the intent to copy, but, instead, to see what you like. Are there trends that you find appealing? Are there any classic, traditional styles you prefer? Are there color combinations or tones that you could incorporate into your own crafting projects? 

While going through these magazines (and books, if you own them), you may want to have a pair of scissors, a three-hole-punch, and binder handy to archive things you may want to incorporate. If you’re looking through a magazine or book that you can’t cut up, keep a notebook nearby and take notes.

Keep an open mind when flipping through books and magazines. You may come across things that, upon first glance, you might not like. Instead of dismissing it, think about how you’d change it and make it better. By doing this, you’ll be more ready to tweak any future crafting patterns to better fit your style.

Another way to hone in on your personal style to take classes. Not only will you learn new skills and ideas from your teacher, but also from classmates. If you can’t sign up for a crafting class, you can also watch various shows that have crafting segments to get ideas. Or you can always browse the displays at your favorite crafting stores and even ask employees for their input.

Once you have figured out your different tastes and style preferences, you can approach your crafting patterns differently and be truly creative. You may feel nervous to branch out and move away from the set guidelines, but don’t be afraid to try something new. Remember that success in creativity often comes through trial and error. 

Find a pattern you like and play with it. Try a different fabric than what is indicated. Just by using different color combinations, your project can take on a totally different style and feel. For example, the pattern may call for more neutral colors, like blue and white, giving it a more country feel. Take the same pattern and switch the neutral colors with some brighter ones, maybe a terracotta color with a mustard yellow or olive green, will make the project take on a more Tuscan style instead of country. When incorporating your own style when following a crafting pattern, realize that even a small change of color can change the tone and theme of project, often dramatically.

Another option in approaching crafting patterns with your own style is to mix and match with other patterns. Take aspects you like in one pattern and see how they can be adapted to the new pattern you have. You may come up with some interesting results. Again, don’t be afraid to make mistakes, especially in this area. Mixing patterns can be difficult and a creative risk, but even if it doesn’t work, you can always try something else.

The main key to incorporating your own style into a crafting pattern is to trust your gut. If you like the way something looks, go with it.  Realize that your end product does not need to look like the package’s photo. Who knows? Your end product might look better.

How to Make a Great Door Hanger

Saturday, February 16th, 2008

Door hangers are fun craft for everyone. Kids love them for the bedroom doors, while adults enjoy making them as gifts or for a baby’s room.  Here are a few ideas:

Photo Door Hanger
Supplies:
Favorite photos (at least two is best)
One 8 ½ x 11-inch piece of colored paper/cardstock
Glue stick
Scissors
Markers
Stickers, glitter, sequins, ribbon, or any other decorations

1. Cut the paper in half, vertically
2. Cut a circle in the top of the paper (make sure it fits over the doorknob). Cut a slit at an angle from the hole to the edge.
3. Trim photos and arrange on the paper.  Cut in different shapes or try using scissors that cut zigzag, wavy, or scrolled edges. Glue the photos on the paper.
4. Glue any other decorations to the paper.
5. Add some fun sayings (either writing with marker or using letter stickers) like, "Do Not Disturb",  "Maid Service Requested", or "Quiet – Baby Nap in Progress".

Initial Door Hanger
Supplies:
Small, unpainted wooden frame, with wooden, removable back – nothing too fancy
Unpainted wooden letter (it can be the first letter of a child’s name or any other significant letter – make sure it’s small enough that it fits comfortably in the frame)
Scrapbook paper
Paint
Ribbon
Spray adhesive
Drill (to drill holes in frame)

1. Drill two holes in the top of the frame. These holes will be used to thread the ribbon through for hanging.
2. Paint the frame and letter any color. An acrylic craft paint works great.
3. Cut the scrapbook paper to fit in the window of the frame.
4. Glue the scrapbook paper to the wooden, removable backing of the frame.
5. Glue the letter, once it has dried, on top of the glued scrapbook paper.
6. Once the paint on the frame is dry, glue the backing into the frame.
7. Thread the ribbon through the holes in the top, so that the ribbon loops through the front.
8. Tie the ends of the ribbon into a bow. Hang from door.

Pillow Door Hanger
Supplies: 
Felt
Fabric glue
Ribbon
Scissors
Quilt batting
3 x 5-inch index card

1. Cut two 9 x 7-inch pieces of felt of one color and one 4 x 6-inch piece of another color. Trim the edges and then cut a 2 ¼ x 4 ¼ -inch window in the smaller piece of felt.
2. Apply fabric glue along the two short sides of the one of the bigger pieces of felt.  Lay a piece of ribbon on top of the glue to make a hanger. Cut ribbon to the length you want it to hang.
3. Apply more glue along all the edges of the felt, leaving a 2-inch space at the center of the bottom edge (for adding batting). Set the second piece of the bigger felt on top the first, pressing into the glue.
4. To do the window, apply the glue along the sides and bottom of the smaller piece of felt and glue it to the middle of the top piece of the larger felt. Let the glue dry completely.
5. Stuff the pillow with the batting, then seal the bottom with the glue.
6. Write any message on the card.  You can write a few different cards to interchange the message.

Super Easy Kids’ Room Door Hangers
Supplies:
Pre-cut foam door hangers
Foam letters and shapes
Glue gun or glue stick

1. Since these are so kid-friendly, there is really nothing to doing these door hangers. The foam hangers, letter, and shapes can be purchased at any craft store.
2. Simply glue the shapes and letter on the door hanger, with fun phrases and designs.

Door hangers are a great craft because they’re easy to make and add a fun, decorative touch to your home.  It is also a great craft for any age because door hangers allow kids to personalize their rooms and make a statement. So next time your family is stuck inside during a rainy or snowy day, pull out a few crafting supplies and make door hangers and enjoy a creative time together.

Different crafting techniques

Friday, February 15th, 2008

Not every craft person is creative and artistic to come up with wonderful craft ideas to make on her own without some type of instructions to follow.  Fortunately, there are many experienced artists who dedicate their lives, efforts and talents to creating easy and complex crafts for anyone of different skill levels to make at home. There are some crafters who are simply looking for quick and easy craft projects, while others like working on long term projects with the most absolute vigilance. In addition, there are people who are just looking for crafts involving specific techniques or that can help them improving the skills and techniques they already have.

From a complex craft project such as making a quilt to buying a fairly easy and simple craft kit to put together, very often crafters are challenged to make the best decision regarding the colors that best fit their project or décor. It’s very important for most crafters to have techniques on how to choose the most attractive colors for their projects. Because colors are so important, crafters must understand the best techniques to work with colors and use them to bring out the value of their projects and to cut down on long process of trying to match the colors to their projects. Color is not as simple to choose as you may think. Learning the technique about how to work with colors will help any craft person to create the most unique and beautiful pieces possible.

Staying organized while crafting is also one of the most important techniques you can consider doing, especially if you have kids or another job to carry out. If you stay organized, you’ll find that your crafting projects are much easier to work on and you will feel less overwhelmed. By staying organized, you can find all the needed tools and supplies to complete your project without having to go to the store to buy an item that you’ve already had but simply couldn’t find. This technique could save you money as well. Organized crafters find pure joy in making their craft projects without spending most of their time looking for tools or missing items. You can have fun as well if you take the time to learn and apply this technique. Being organized will make your life easier in every way.

The Christmas season is one of the most anticipated holidays of the year no matter where you live. If you decide to give this holiday season some of your Christmas crafts to friends and family, you may want to find the best technique to start and complete your projects before Christmas day. Having an idea of the type of craft you want to make and how many you can do in your busy daily life is definitely a start. You certainly don’t want to be overwhelmed finishing up with what you have started at the very last minute. Being prepared is a great technique in most crafter’s careers. No matter what kind of crafting you like to do, being prepared will help cut down your stress level and this is a great way to help you get into the holiday spirit or in great mood any time of the year.

However, sometimes you just want to learn the basics to a specific craft. In that case, books and the internet are great resources for your need. If you live close to your local library, you can simply borrow the right books to learn the techniques to succeed in the making of your craft. You can also sign up to take classes where they have knowledgeable teachers who can help you with easy techniques to master a skill.

 

Tips for longer lasting embroidery

Friday, February 15th, 2008

Embroidery is one of the decorating techniques that you can choose for many types of projects from fine linen and more. It’s done with a sewing needle of any kind. It can be done on any fabric from silk to heavy canvas or leather. Embroidery gives the finished product both texture and appeal and can be done in a beautiful array of colors. Embroidery is a high quality, long lasting decorating technique and will add interest to any type of project. The most experienced people doing embroidery are always learning from others the kind of stitch and thread that works best on any number of fabrics to create stunning works of art.

Just as you treasure items from your ancestors, your children and grandchildren will probably treasure the items you have now. It’s up to you to preserve your embroidery to pass on to the generation of kids. The way that you frame your current embroidery project may determine if it makes it through the years. After all the work you put into your cross-stitching, you should do everything possible to make sure it won’t be destroyed in a few years. The proper framing techniques should include no chemicals that can be damaging to fabric. Avoid using cardboard and masking tape. It may be tempting sometimes to quickly tape your fabric to a piece of cardboard and place it in a frame. You may think nothing of it until a few years later when the acid will begin to eat away at the fabric. You simply don’t want to see all the time you’ve already put into your cross-stitch project waste away just like that. A little effort will ensure that your embroidery masterpiece lasts for generations to come.

If you decide to have your finished embroidery piece will be framed by a professional framer, take a little extra time to ask him about the types of materials and techniques he used to frame the type of finished work you have. Make sure his way of framing is done to preserve your artwork for years to come. You can consider framing your finished embroidery yourself. It isn’t as hard as you may think. You can save money and this is a great time to learn a new skill. If you decide to frame your piece of art, make sure that all materials you use are acid free. Try out your chosen techniques on a small project first before moving on to framing your main piece of art. Remember that frames don’t have to be traditional. You can use some creativity and experiment with some of your frames that will compliment your finished piece. Try painting the whole frame or add some type of design to match your embroidery on the corner of the wooden frame. For example, if your cross-stitch has stars or flowers in it, paint a matching star or flower on a corner of the frame. You can use fabric to create a mat or a ruffle around your piece of art.

Be creative and most importantly have fun. Preserving your embroidery for your kids and for the next generations to come is simply the best heirloom you can leave for your family. Embroidery techniques can produce a wide range of effects. Almost any effect can be created in embroidery from simple to fancy stitches with beads and anything else attached. Embroidery is one of the most versatile crafts ever created.

 

Making Your Own Christmas Stockings, how to

Thursday, February 14th, 2008

Christmas stockings are one of the most recognized parts of Christmas décor and traditions.  Making your own Christmas stockings is a fun holiday activity that is surprisingly easy – some require minimal sewing, while others require none. Once you have the basic stocking pattern down, you can play with it to make a bunch of variations.

Basic Felt Stocking
You’ll need:
Felt (any color – though suggested colors are red, green, or white)
Scissors (and pinking shears, if desired)
Newspaper
Decorations
Craft Glue
Thread
Embroidery floss
Needle
Pins

1. Buy enough felt to make the stocking the size you want, for as many as you want.
2. Make your own pattern by drawing a stocking shape on a piece of newspaper and cut out.
3. Place the pattern on the felt, pin in place, and cut around the pattern. You’ll need to do this twice, so you have a front and back piece. To save time, you could fold the felt in half and cut.
4. Sew the stockings together, leaving the top open. It’s best to machine-sew this, but you can hand-sew. Keep in mind that a hand-sewn stocking may not be as durable.
5. Using a needle and embroidery floss, do a blanket stitch around the sewn edge.
6. Cut a four inch by one inch piece of felt. Fold the felt in half and sew it to the top corner of the stocking, forming a loop hanger.
7. Attach any decorative elements you’d like for the stocking – use craft glue to attach ribbons, pom poms, rick rack, or sew on buttons. Use pinking shears to cut pieces of felt in interesting shapes and strips. For an extra challenge, you can use any extra felt (or you can buy more for this purpose) to make pictures using different shapes (triangles for Christmas trees, circles for snowmen, etc.). 

Note: you can do a no-sew version of this stocking by using craft glue or a hot glue gun to seam together the edges. This may not be able to hold as much or look as nice as the sewn version, but if you need something quickly or if you’re just afraid of sewing (as many are), this is a good alternative.

Once you know how to make a basic felt stocking, you can branch out and try new things. It requires the same method of sewing (or gluing). The only difference is using different colors, shapes, and decorations.

A fun and easy variation to the basic pattern is to make it look like an elf stocking. When making the pattern, cut the toe to make it longer and curled. You can also attach some bells to the stocking to give it a fun, elfish jingle.

Don’t forget about your four-legged friends and make a dog or cat paw stocking. Buy felt or faux fur that matches your pet.  Be sure to buy another color of felt to make the paw pads.  When you draw your pattern, cut the newspaper to look long and then rounded on the end (if you’re making a cat stocking, make the leg part a little thinner than you would the dog’s).  Cut four oval pieces, one round one, and then arrange them to look like a paw. The animal stocking will look adorable next to the rest of the family’s or by your pet’s bed.

If you want to involve younger kids (around five and under) and you find sewing too difficult for little hands or gluing too messy (or too hot, if using a glue gun), make a construction paper stocking with them.  Kids love feeling independent as they "sew" the stocking with yarn. Plus, this is a fun gift for small kids to give to parents, siblings, or grandparents. To make the paper stocking, cut out two stocking shapes (a front and back), then use a hole punch around the edge (except at the top, of course), and cut a long piece of yarn. Show the child how to weave the yarn through the holes. From there, the kids can draw and glue any decoration they like.  Not only will you keep them busy, but you’ll also enjoy looking at them years later and remembering your kids’ younger years.

Making your own Christmas stockings is easy, fun, and festive. With just a little bit of felt, newspaper, needle, and thread, you and your family will create unique stockings that everyone will enjoy for years to come.

 

 

 

Creating fun accessories for your little girl through crafting (i.e. hair bows, jewelry, etc.)

Thursday, February 14th, 2008

Creating fun accessories for your little girl through crafting is easier than ever since there are so many new and creative ideas.  Most accessory crafts are easy to make and don’t require much of an investment. With these few ideas, you’ll be on your way to making pretty and fun accessories for the little girls in your life.

Hair Accessories

The newest trend in girls’ hair accessories is a super-easy headband made from tights or knee-highs.  One possible reason this craft is popular because it is a new-sew project.  All that is needed are scissors, a glue runner (which can be purchased at most craft or scrapbooking stores), and a pair of girls’ tights (size 12-18 months, any color).  Follow these simple steps to make this headband:

1. Cut a four inch ring from the top of the leg, below the panty.
2. Pull the ring over a piece of cardstock or cardboard (or use the cardstock in the package, if available).  Fold one side of the ring down halfway.
3. Apply a line of glue all along the edge of the folded fabric with the glue runner.
4. Fold the other side of the ring back and press over the line of glue.
5. Once the glue is dry, stretch the headband. Cut away any loose edge above the glue line.
6. Turn right side out and decorate the headband. This can be done by attaching small bows, ribbon, beads, or silk flowers.

Another hair accessory that is easy to make is a flower or ribbon clip. These clips can be pinned directly on the hair or onto the headband mentioned above. All that is needed are some alligator clips (1 3/8" inch is a good size for little girls – these can be picked up at any beauty supply store), a hot glue gun, pretty ribbon, silk flowers, beads, and/or charms.  

This is a fun craft because it’s so easy and is open to anything your mind can come up with.  You can line the clip with a cute ribbon, maybe with a loop. Or you can have ribbon with a cute little flower or charm (butterflies, hearts, etc).  Another possibility is to just put a little silk flower on a clip – make sure that the flower is big enough to cover the whole clip. You can put anything you want on these little clips – just use the hot glue to put any decoration on it. Because it’s such an easy craft, you can easily make enough to match as many of her outfits as you’d like.

Jewelry

Making jewelry is a craft that kids can be involved in, even if you don’t have any experience.  It can be as complicated or simple as you like. If you have absolutely no idea where to start, there are many jewelry-making kits available. These kits can be purchased at just about any craft store. The key is to decide what you want to make and then buy the kit with that in mind. The most appropriate jewelry to make for little girls are bracelets (earrings, watches, and rings don’t make as much sense for little girls – save those until they are over eight).

A fun project to make for (and with) your little girl is a classic charm bracelet. To make these, you need to buy is chain, clasp, charms, and needle-nose pliers (all of which can be purchased at a craft or hobby store). Buy the chain in the right length and use the pliers to attach the charms.  This is such a fun project because girls can pick out charms that correspond to their interests, hobbies, and favorite things. 

One important thing to remember when making your own jewelry, particularly for girls under two, is to make sure they are durable, since they will be pulled at. This is especially important for babies, as some beads could pose as choking hazards. When making bracelets for babies, measure the length of the string, elastic, or wire you’ll be using so that it forms a very close-fitting bracelet. This reduces the risk of a baby pulling at and breaking it. If a piece of jewelry you’re making feels too loose or if the materials don’t seem strong enough, it is best to start over or try something else.

By creating fun accessories for your little girl, you not only make her look extra cute, but you also give her look your own individual touch. And it’s usually the thought and love that goes into making something like a piece of jewelry or hair clip a gift to remember and love.

 

 

 

 

Creating beautiful home décor with crafting

Wednesday, February 13th, 2008

Beautiful home décor does not have to cost a fortune anymore.  There are some very creative ways to create beautiful home décor with crafting.  In fact it seems more common know to decorate ones house with crafting items that have been made either by the home owner, or by someone that has given it to them as a gift.  Home made home décor can add that personal touch you are looking for.  Creating beautiful home décor with crafting can be as simple or complex as you want to make it.  Think about it; you pick the craft, the colors, the detail, and even the room it will go in.  It can add just the touch you want.

So where can you find some great home décor craft ideas?  There are a number of Television shows that can help with inspiration if you are struggling to find that perfect project or perfect craft to put in your home.  Ones that come to mind are HGTV which have a number of different shows to pick from, and DIY is a great show to watch for ideas.  Design on a Dime is also a good source of inspiration, especially when you are on a tight budge.  They come up with some very creative ways to add some beautiful home décor, on a small budget.  Other places you might look to help you create beautiful home décor with crafting are in crafting magazines such as better homes and gardens.  They give a ton of different ideas as to home décor, especially during the holiday season and for house parties. 

So what does it take to create beautiful home décor with crafting?  Well, depending on what you want to make, generally it will not take more than someone willing to follow instructions, and getting in touch with your creative side.  Home décor can be as simple as adding vinyl lettering to your wall or making holiday picture frames, or as complex as making beautiful wall hangings, or intricate art pieces or beautiful bedding pieces.  You can virtually decorate your entire house with crafting ideas.  Here are some ideas as to what you can create for your home using crafting techniques.
 If you love to sew, or even want to sew try making some throw pillows for the sofa and loveseat, or perhaps a bed that needs a splash of color.  You pick the fabric and can make it as elegant or fun as you want.  If you really want a challenge try making an entire bedroom set with comforter, shams and bed skirt. 
 Magnet Boards.  Magnet boards are a fun way to decorate your home.  You can buy just the wood board at a craft store.  Pick out the colors to match whatever room it is going in (pick an accent color to go with the walls).  You glue paper squares around the border to give it some color.  Go over all the papers with mod-podge, glue some ribbon to the top, and hang it with an elegant rod.  Now you have a functional yet beautiful wall hanging.
 Wreaths.  It doesn’t have to be Christmas to make a wreath, although it can be a good excuse to do it.  Hang it on your door, or make a half moon wreath (or several) to hang on the walls of your living room.  This gives the room dimension and your own personal added touch. 
 Art.  Art comes in many forms; pictures, ceramics, or sculptures.  You can do one or all three if you want.  These can add a very beautiful dynamic style to your home.

These are only a few ideas out there on creating beautiful home décor with crafting.  There is much more to be found, and much more to be discovered and shared.  So get in touch with your creative side and surprise us all.

 

Crafting safety 101

Tuesday, February 12th, 2008

Crafting safety 101. Crafting is fun, and can create amazing gifts and decorations. However, there are some safety measures that need to be taken to make sure that injury does not occur during the crafting process.

Here are some of those basic safety rules that need to be kept in mind during crafting.

Rule #1

Always make sure that the crafting area you are working in and around is clean and free of clutter. Clutter can be cause for spills, trips, falls, and cuts. The area needs to also be as dust free as possible. This way the dust does not get flipped up when you are working.

Rule #2

Use the right tools for the job. If you are using the wrong tools, you may be setting yourself up for injury. Do not think you can make something work. At least not when it comes to the serious stuff. The wrong bit, blade can cause issues with injury.

Rule #3

Read all of the instructions for your crafting project before starting. This will prevent there from being issues with leaving your crafting tools unattended while you get what you need. Also, it will make the process easier if it everything you need is right there.

Rule #4

Minimize children and animals from the craft working area. If the craft is for children then keep it as simple as possible. Also, when children are around the crafting area, make sure that the electrical tools, sharp tools etc are put away. This way the risk of them turning those tools on ore getting cut is less.

As far as animals are concerned, if you think they are ok sitting there, just wait until they hear a sound they don’t like and jump up and bump your arm. Then what ever you are doing is not only an injury waiting to happen, but can also be messed up.

Rule #5

Wear the right clothing for the job. The clothing you wear should be snug enough fitting that they edges will not get caught in the work you are doing. If you can tuck in your shirt, roll up sleeves etc it would be best.

Rule #6

Wear the necessary safety gear for the crafting project you are doing. This is especially true where cutting, wood and metal is involved. Also where hot wax or other hot items are used.

The basic safety gear is:

Goggles or safety glasses
Gloves
Over bib
Bands for clothing

Rule #7

Work in well ventilated areas. This is especially important where paints, or other chemicals are being used. In fact, often times it is better to paint outside if possible. If that is not possible, be sure to open a window, or door. If the fumes accidentally intoxicate you, you can have real injury occur.

Rule #8

Washing up is an important rule also. The fact is that much of what we use in crafting is a chemical of one kind or another. Therefore, it can cause reactions to skin, or even poison if digested. So be sure to wash your hands before and after crafting. Also it is important to clean up the crafting areas well before and after crafting.

These are the basics of Crafting safety 101. Following these rules will help to prevent injury. The key to crafting is to have fun and make beautiful things for family and friends. Injury can ruin the entire processes fun. Take some time to make sure you are following these safety rules and you will see there is a great deal of benefit.

 

Best way to use a stencil to make it really work

Monday, February 11th, 2008

Best way to use a stencil to make it really work. Stencils are great for creating beautiful arts and crafts. Also, you can use stencils to decorate your home, on walls, furniture, pictures and much more. Though, in order to get the most from your stencil, lets take a look at what you can do to get the clear picture you are looking for.

A stencil is usually a thick piece of paper or piece of plastic with a shape, picture or design cut out of it. This way you can use the stencil to create a specific image on the object, picture or wall you are interesting in designing.

You can use paint, colors, pencils, or about any other filler to use in the open areas of the stencil to make the picture you are working towards. Though it is not always easy getting the design to work. The reason is that movement of the stencil, or running of the filler can cause inconsistent or messy looking designs.

What about the stencils and how you use them?

For example if you want to make beautiful art on cards, pictures etc you will want to softly take the stencil onto the card stock or paper. The tape can be placed on the back or lightly on the front with a very small amount on the paper so not to tear the paper.

If you want to use the stencils on your wall as borders, you will also want to attach the stencils but will need to do it in pattern. This also means that you will need to pin, tape or attach the stencils carefully because you will not want to damage the paint or attachments on the wall.

There are two ways you can position and secure the stencil to the object that you will be using. There is of course the standard masking tape that has been used for years. There is also a newer technology that is called adhesive repositioning spray. This is good if you do not want to be risking tape sticking, or not coming easily off of the stencil. The tape is less expensive. However the spray is not so expensive that it is an unreasonable purchase for good quality pictures.

Next you will want to look at the use of the stencil as a tool. Because even though using them is very easy, they do leave a lasting impression on what ever you use them on.

Do a test run of the stencil on some paper or something that does not matter. This way you can get an idea of what the image will look like. You will also be able to see if there will be running or dripping of the fillers.

You will need to know how much pressure, and how much filler you want to have used to create the perfect picture. Try a few of the test runs before actually moving over to the actual object. This way you are ready for the real thing.

Be sure the object you are putting the stencils on are good and clean, also completely dry. You would not want there to be problems with the stencil being a clear picture due to other stuff in the way.

This is the best ways to use stencils to make them really work. They are not that difficult. However, if you want it to look good, then you will want to make sure that you have followed these tips.