Talk Crafty To Me Dedicated to all things handmade

Fall is quickly approaching, and bringing with it thoughts of spending cold and rainy days by curled up in front of a roaring fire, playing games with friends and family. If that’s what comes to your mind as well, when you think of fall then this adorable fabric checker board is just what you need.

I heart linen has a great tutorial which was also just published in the fall issue of Sew News.

- Full tutorial here

Ok so I know I’m a little late for back-to-school. But now that all the rush is over, the school supplies are all bought and everyone’s settling back into routines, you might have a little more time on your hands. If so why not make a very cute reusable lunch bag.

See the full tutorial here.

Or check out these other great ideas for lunch bags:

- Note Book Lunch Bag from design*sponge
- Fabric Lunch Bag from Etsy
- Sandwich Wrap from Craft Stylish

First off, sorry for the long gap between posting, I’ve been traveling through Southeast Asia, and it’s been a little hard to motivate myself to search out new crafty and cool things, but don’t worry, I’m back and I’ve got a great new site for the knitter in you!

With fall just around the corner, why not check out one of the DIY kits over at Wool And The Gang and knit yourself something fabulous. Each kit contains a pair of wooden knitting needles, the pattern, a knitter’s sewing needle, a croche hook, and all the yarn you’ll need to make it. Plus you can even choose your colors.

If you need to brush up on your knitting skills there are loads of how-tow videos and sketch demos, which will teach you the basics as well as a few tips and tricks to get you knitting like a pro in no time.

Not really a knitter but still like the looks? You can purchase the ready made pieces, hand knit by Peruvian women.

Wool And The Gang

Looking for a way to spruce up your next summer party? Check out this great DIY tutorial over at Once Wed. Yes, I know it’s a wedding site, but I think this project is perfect for any outdoor party, or indoor for that matter. Pick your favorite colors and punch out a design, then just string it up in some trees or across a table to add a little light to your night.

- See the whole tutorial and download the template

What a great way to add a little fun to your 4th of July. This crafty idea comes from the very creative Kathleen over at Twig & Thistle. Not only is this great for the 4th of July, but for any picnic that needs a little sparkle! Wedding showers… baby showers… or even just a fun day out.

Check out the full tutorial, and download the templates over on Kathleen’s blog.

Looking for a cute and easy spring project? Check out the tutorial for this adorable little bug pincushion over at goody-goody.These would also make cute toys for a little kid, or even a cat or small dog.

Check out the tutorial here

As I mentioned in the last post, we’re currently traveling around South East Asia, and I’ve been looking for crafty experiences wherever I can find them. While in Bali, I was introduced to Studio Perak, a family run jewelry shop, in the artistic community of Ubud. In addition to selling bohemian inspired silver jewelry, they also offer half day silversmithing classes, where you can create you’re very own piece. Read More…

^{Picture from CraftPudding}

Martina turned me on to this cute little video of hand carving a stamp, so I thought I’d put together a post with some links and tips on carving your own. There are lots of great resources out there, but here just a few of my favs.

Read More…

Interested in quilting, but not sure where to start? Why not try this super simple tutorial from Craftzine for a quilted potholder. It’ll give you a taste of quilting without having to commit to making an entire quilt.

And if you’re looking for some kitchen inspired fabric be sure to check out the great Lizzy Dish collection.

There’s a great tutorial for a cute spring top from Made by Rae, over at Sew Mama Sew. There are step by step pictures and instructions which can be tailored to any size.