Getting Started with Art and Crafts

Art and crafts is a fun and fulfilling hobby for all ages. Whether you have been dabbling in art and crafts for years or are entirely new to the experience, there is plenty of fun to be had.

You can make your own Christmas and birthday presents and even create beautiful pieces in which to decorate your home. Making homemade cards is another fantastic craft idea that is enjoyable to do.

Card Making

If you are new to the world of arts and crafts, there is no better way to get your feet wet than with card making. It’s easy to do, costs very little and involves only a few materials.

Giving handmade cards on birthdays and at Christmas is very special too. Although you can make your own “card blanks” with plain white card, a ruler and some scissors – it is better to purchase them ready made.

This will save you time and provide a finish to the card that belies your experience!

Card blanks are available from all art and craft stores. Size A6 is the standard size so start with these.

You can let your creativity flow when card making. You could use rubber stamps to create an outline and use chalk, paints or felt tip pens to colour it in. You could create a collage using tissue paper or other bits and bobs you have available. Painting or drawing a picture also works well. You could also use a stencil to create an attractive image or design. Or you could even use a photo as the main design to really personalise the card.

It is up to you, have fun with it and experiment with different ideas and techniques!

Cinnamon Candles

A lovely way to make your home feel warm and cosy during the cold winter months is to light cinnamon candles. Making them is simple to do so you don’t have to go out and buy them.

Things you will need:

1. A plain church candle (or several if making more than one)
2. Dried cinnamon sticks the same length as the candles
3. Elastic bands that can fit around the candle
4. Garden string

Method:

1. If the cinnamon sticks are longer than the candles, cut them down so they are the same height.
2. Place one elastic band around the top of the candle and one at the bottom.
3. Wrap the candle in cinnamon sticks by placing the sticks side by side and securing under the elastic bands.
4. Wrap the garden string around the candle to secure the cinnamon sticks and then cut the elastic bands off.
5. Put the candle into the microwave and heat for 30 seconds. Remove with a tea towel and squeeze gently.
6. Place the candle back into the microwave for an additional 30 seconds and squeeze again. This will secure the cinnamon sticks in place as the wax will have melted slightly.
7. When the sticks are secure and the candle has cooled you can remove the garden string.
8. You can decorate your new candle by wrapping rustic string around the middle and securing some holly, dried fruit or other craft trims.

There are literally thousands of craft ideas, but I’ve just outlined a couple of ideas that that are fun and simple ways to get started in the wonderful world of arts and crafts.

Can you name anymore that myself and others can try?