Talk Crafty To Me Dedicated to all things handmade

I know, I know… it’s August…. it’s hot… and no one wants to be inside anymore than they have to. But, here’s a fun summer project, for you and your kids, that’ll get you back outside enjoying the weather before you know it.

- Check out the full tutorial here

With summer now in full swing, thoughts of backyard barbecues and outdoor parties spring to mind. There’s no better way to enjoy those warm summer days, than lounging in the backyard with good friends and good food, making the most of those long days. But just because the sun eventually has to set, doesn’t mean the party has to end. Check out some of these great ideas for lamps and lanterns… a perfect way to help make those long summer nights, even longer.

Remember Safety First
If you’re using any flammable materials like paper bags, or are hanging lanterns in trees, be sure to stay away from real flames. You can purchase inexpensive battery operated tea lights, and candles online or at many craft stores and hardware stores.
 
 
 
 

A cute spring idea for your little ones. Holly from Chez Beeper Bebe, has an adorable tutorial for this felt egg book, that lets your kids decorate eggs over and over. Cut out all sorts of shapes and let their imaginations run wild, and when you’re not decorating you can store all the little pieces in the handy pocket at the back. Such a great idea, and beautifully crafted.

– Download the tutorial
– Purchase one of Holly’s from her Etsy Shop

Awhile ago I posted about carving your own rubber stamps. Today I came across a really cute idea from Just Something I made. Cathe took a wallpaper seam roller and a rubber band, and made this fantastic rolling pendant stamp. What a great way to decorate cards, envelopes, packages, or any number of things.

Head on over and check out her tutorial so you can start rolling pendants on everything!

I’m in love with this cake… not only does it look absolutely delicious, but I love the surprise when you cut into this cake. This is one of those cakes that would actually make it acceptable to steal a piece before it makes it to the table.

I am baker, has been busy perfecting this cake and has posted a detailed step-by-step tutorial… if you’re daring enough to attempt this!

- Check out the tutorial here

These handmade crayons are completely edible. Made from nuts, berries, dried fruits, marshmallows and fruity pebbles, then pressed into a crayon mold. Click here to see all the photos of how they were made.

Place card holders are a fun and festive way to glam up the table and add that personal touch. Here are a few DIY options for your holiday dinner.

Twig and Branches | Christmas Ornaments | Rustic Napkin Holders | Branch Place Card Holder | Eucalyptus Chair Tags | Pine Cone Place Card Holders | Gingerbread Cottages | Paper Tree Place Card

I don’t know about you, but food is one of my favorite gifts to give and to receive. It doesn’t have to be difficult to make, or use expensive ingredients, it’s just the thought and time that makes it special.

1. Cocoa Candy Cane Marshmallows – There’s nothing like a hot mug of cocoa on a cold winter’s night, and what better way to make it special that with these Cocoa Candy Cane Marshmallows.

2. Cranberry Infused Vodka – For those of you who usually give a bottle of wine this time of year, why not try some infused vodka instead. This one is cranberry but you can use all sorts of things, fruit, peppers, spices, even bacon!

3. Gingerbread Caramels – These cute cones filled with caramels make great stocking stuffers or party favors.

4. Cowgirl Cookies – This is a super easy gift that doesn’t require any cooking! Just layer the ingredients into a jar and let the recipient do all the work.

5. DIY: S’mores Kits – Another great gift that doesn’t require cooking! Just assemble the ingredients and decorate.

6. Gingersnap Palmiers – I love the decoration on this jar as much as the contents.

7. Homemade Vanilla – This idea is just beautiful, and you can download the labels to make yours looks just as pretty.

8. Mocha Cocoa – Another idea that just involves layering ingredients

Christmas Crackers are another tradition in my family. They are really easy to make, and since you’re doing them yourself you can make them to match your holiday table… plus I love being able to personalize the little trinkets inside.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Lightweight wrapping paper, crepe paper or tissue paper
• Toilet paper rolls (2 per cracker, or one paper towel roll)
• Cracker Snaps (you can buy them at craft stores like Michael’s or online here or here)
• scotch tape
• Glue
• Scissors
• Ribbon
• Candy, toys, trinkets etc. to till it with

Here’s how to make em:

Step 1: Layout your paper, placing one toilet paper roll in the middle. Cut the second roll in half and place one at each edge, leaving about 2 inches between the one in the middle. Use tape to attach the cracker snap lengthwise in the middle of the paper. Tape both ends, but not the middle. (you can also attach the cracker snap in the middle of the rolls, taping the ends to each of the cut rolls)

Step 2: Start rolling the paper around the toilet paper rolls, glue it down as you go, to help keep it’s shape.

Step 3: When you’ve rolled it all the way up, make sure the edge is sealed.

Step 4: Pinch and twist in the paper in the gap between the middle toilet roll and one of the ends. Secure with a ribbon.

Step 5: Fill the open end with candy, toys and trinkets

Step 6: Secure the other end by pinching and twisting like before. Then tie with a ribbon.

And you’re done! If you want you can add additional decorations to the outside, or add the names of your guests and use as place markers at your table.

^{Picture Links: Making Crackers | Reindeer Crackers | Wrapping Paper Crackers | Tissue Paper Crackers}

Opening stockings is one of my absolute favorite parts of the holidays. Notoriously crammed full, and usually spilling out the top, there’s just something about the little gifts, that often feel more thoughtful than the big ones. I’ve had the same stocking since I was little, but if you’re looking for a new stocking this year, try some of these creative ideas.

Knit Stocking Pattern | Striped Piece Stocking | Simple Embroidered Stockings | Recycled Sweater Stockings | Christmas Bloom Stocking | A Rebel Christmas | Babushka Christmas Stocking | Recycled Striped Stocking | Jingle Bell Stockings