Doodlecraft

Refillable Leather Journal DIY

2026-04-06T06:00:00.000-04:00

Refillable Leather Journal DIY

Make a chic refillable leather journal out of Cricut Leather and a few other supplies.

This shimmery metallic leather journal has paper folded in half inside, held tightly by elastic, making it refillable as needed.

You can also fill your journal with any type of paper!

I love notebooks so much--you can never have too many!

This is my newest and most favorite book, because it uses regular paper and is refillable.

Fill your leather journal with sketch paper, watercolor paper, kraft paper or just cheap copy paper.

The secret here is the elastic, it's perfect for holding the paper in place and keeping the book together.

I made a journal in rose gold, gold and copper.

Which one is your favorite? I love the copper with the red elastic!

These stunning journals would make a great handmade gift too.

Perfect for Father's day, Mother's day or any day of the week!

Supplies Needed for Refillable Leather Journal:

Cricut Metallic Leather (9x12" and 3x1.5")
Eyelets
Crop-a-Dile
Ruler
Pencil
Rotary Cutter
Eastic Cord (1/8") cut to 26" and 7" pieces
Paper Cutter
Scissors
Hobby Knife
Lighter

Here's the full video tutorial with pictures to follow:

Step 1:

Begin by cutting the leather to 9X12" with the ruler and rotary cutter. Then turn it to the rough side and mark the center line on both of the long sides. Mark 1/2" on either side of the center line.

Step 2:

Use the Crop-a-Dile to cut holes on the lines drawn 1/2" from the center. Punch 4 holes and set them with eyelets using the Crop-a-Dile.

Step 3:

Now use the 26 inch piece of elastic and tie a knot on the end of it. Thread it from the inside through the top right eyelet.

Then thread the elastic through the top left eyelet.

Thread the elastic through the lower left eyelet.

Then bring the elastic up through the bottom right eyelet.

Then thread the elastic through the top right hole and back through the top left hole.

Then tie the elastic to the knotted elastic end in a surgeons knot...or a square knot with one extra loop pass through it.

Then pull the elastic down the center to the right hole and thread it through and back up through the left bottom eyelet.

Repeat the process by tying off the center elastic to the remaining tail end of the elastic in the same surgeons knot as previously.

Then straighten up the elastic so it looks nice on the binding edge.

And straighten out the 3 strands of elastic running down the center.

Step 4:

Now make the refillable paper packets by folding 6-10 sheets of paper in half and then cut the edge of them at the 5 inch mark.

I am using laser printer paper at a weight of 28 lb...but you can fill it with watercolor paper, kraft paper, black paper or colored papers!

Then slip the elastic around the paper packets and run the elastic right down the fold of the papers.

Step 5:

Now measure the center of the spine and use the hobby knife to cut a little X in the leather.

The X needs to fit 2 pieces of elastic tightly, so don't cut the x too big. Start small and make it bigger if needed.

Push the 7 inch piece of elastic through the hole and through the eyelets on the small piece of leather.

Pull both elastic ends through the center and tie them off in a overhand knot.

Now that elastic will wrap around the book and keep the pages in order and the book closed.

That's it!

Isn't it beautiful!?

I love the shimmer of the metallic leather.

I love that it's refillable for years of use.

I love the size, perfect for tossing in a bag for sketching, writing, drawing and note-taking on the go.

This super chic journal/notebook is perfect for traveling and great for handmade gifts.

Add personalization with iron-on vinyl if you want.

I love that this notebook is refillable. Just add or take out papers as needed.

The book is firm enough for writing on while on the go and great to have some paper on hand!

Isn't this just fabulous!?

I've done over 2500 posts on my blog. I do crafts and DIY's every day...but this project is my favorite right now.

I love them! I want to make one for every human I know!

Fill with musings, poetry, artwork and more!

Which metallic shade do you like best?

When I get a new notebook, journal, sketchbook or even notepad...I have a really hard time using it.

I feel like I have to wait to have something really amazing, important or high quality to put into my new book.

I love the freedom this refillable journal gives me because it's fancy and new, but the paper is refillable, so there's no need to stress about making something "good" enough.

Easy to save off valuable papers later and fill with more pages as needed.

They look great in a basket on the coffee table too!

Gorgeous leather bound journals.

These can also be made with faux leather and other thick flexible materials.

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Use the leftover leather to make mini refillable notebooks!

Check out this post!

Check out these fun DIY Journals too!

How to Make Junk Journal (Step-by-Step Creative DIY)

2026-04-03T06:00:00.343-04:00

How to Make Junk Journal (Step-by-Step Creative DIY)

There’s something quietly magical about a junk journal—the way it grows, shifts, and becomes a living snapshot of your thoughts, moods, and little everyday treasures.

If you’ve been craving a more relaxed, no-rules approach to memory keeping, this tutorial will walk you through exactly how to create a junk journal like mine…plus plenty of creative ways to make it your own.

What Is a Junk Journal?

A junk journal is exactly what it sounds like—in the best way.

It’s a handmade journal filled with a mix of papers, scraps, and found materials.

Think envelopes, book pages, packaging, receipts, movie tickets, ephemera and anything else that would normally get tossed.

But instead of being “junk,” these bits and pieces turn into something deeply personal.

There’s no pressure, no structure, and absolutely no wrong way to do it.

Why Is Junk Journaling So Popular Right Now?

Junk journaling has been gaining a lot of steam lately, and it’s easy to see why.

As more people lean into screen-free hobbies and tactile creativity, this style of journaling fits right into that larger trend.

It’s low-pressure, beginner-friendly, and doesn’t require special skills or expensive supplies. You can start with things you already have at home, which makes it accessible and sustainable.

Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a space where you can track feelings, colors, memories, and random bits of life—all in one place.

Start small, just with a piece of cardboard, cereal box or chipboard...some papers and a cover...again could be a piece of cardboard.

If you have gel plate prints, this is a great addition to junk journals--more about this at the end of the post.

Let's get started!

Supplies Needed to Make a Junk Journal:

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One of the best first things to understand about junk journaling is that your supply list can be as simple or as elaborate as you want, take inspiration from this blog post and then make it your own!

Look around your house, and definitely check in the recycle bin...chances are you already have most of what you need!

Here’s what I used to create my journal:

5x7 chipboard (for structure)
Scrap leather (for the cover)
Assorted paper (printer paper, book pages, hymnal pages, envelopes)
Hole punch
Two 3-inch binder rings (can start smaller and grow as needed)
Glue stick
Brush calligraphy pen
Stickers and ephemera
Guillotine Paper Cutter

Optional additions:

Bubble mailers (great for texture and padding)
Fabric scraps
Washi tape
Ribbon or lace
Old greeting cards
Magazine cutouts (letters or pictures for collage)
Check the recycle bin!
Ripped edges are awesome, check out this video for making a deckled edge ruler

Step 1: Create the Base Structure

Start by cutting your chipboard to a 5x7 size. This is what I consider the perfect size for a junk journal—small enough to feel approachable, but large enough to hold meaningful content.

Use the chipboard as your template for everything else. This keeps your journal cohesive even though the materials are mixed.

Punch two holes along one edge of the chipboard.

2 inches down from the top and 2 inches up from the bottom, 1/2 inch from the edge.

These will be used for your binding rings.

Step 2: Cut and Prep Your Pages

Next, gather your papers—this is where the fun begins.

Cut everything to match your chipboard template:

Plain paper
Envelopes
Hymnal pages
Book pages
Scrap paper

*NOTE: Remember about 640,000 TONS (1,280,000,000 pounds) of books are sent to landfills every year (in just the U.S.), so using book pages is a great way to upcycle and reduce waste.

Using the chipboard as a guide ensures consistency, but don’t stress about perfection. Slight variations actually add charm.

Punch matching holes in all your pages so they align with the chipboard.

Step 3: Assemble with Ring Binding

Thread everything together using two 3-inch binder rings.

This is honestly one of the best parts of this method.

Ring binding is perfect for junk journals because it allows the book to expand naturally. As you add bulk—stickers, glued items, layered papers—the rings accommodate that growth.

If you were using a bound notebook or sketchbook, it wouldn’t expand the same way, and your pages could warp or become difficult to use.

With rings, your journal evolves with you.

Step 4: Add Your Cover

For the cover, I used a scrap piece of leather that happened to be just the right size.

You can punch holes in the leather just like the chipboard and add it to the front.

When thinking about junk journal covers, don’t overcomplicate it. Some great options include:

Fabric scraps
Cardboard packaging
Old book covers
Denim or canvas
Layered collage pieces
Favorite Cereal or snack box

For back covers, you can repeat the same material or use something sturdier for support.

A good rule of thumb is to choose something slightly thicker than your inner pages to help protect everything inside.

Step 5: Start Filling Your Journal

Now comes the most personal—and most freeing—part.

There’s no structure you need to follow. You don’t have to go in order. You don’t even need to write every day.

Here’s how I use mine:

Journaling about a specific day or feeling
Writing quotes with a brush calligraphy pen
Adding stickers (sometimes entire pages of them!)
Gluing in mementos like receipts or notes
Playing with color combinations

Some pages are full. Some are sparse. Some are just a single sticker.

That’s the beauty of it.

Creative Ways to Use Your Junk Journal

If you’re wondering what else you can do with your journal, here are some creative ways to expand your practice:

Mood + Color Tracking
Dedicate pages to color palettes that reflect your emotions. Use markers, paint, or paper scraps.

Memory Keeping
Glue in small items from your day—tickets, tags, packaging, or notes.

Quote Collection
Use your calligraphy pen to write quotes that resonate with you.

Sticker Therapy
Fill pages freely with stickers—no design rules required. Seriously, let the page feel like an unsupervised 7 year old was handed a sticker sheet and fill that paper!

Gratitude Lists
Write quick lists of things you appreciated that day, simply jotting 3 things down that you are grateful for is very healing.

Mini Collages
Layer paper, textures, magazine pages--letters and pictures, and images for visual storytelling.

Adding Interactive Elements

One of the most fun parts of junk journaling is creating interactive pages.

Here are a few ideas:

Tuck Spots

Tuck spots are small pockets made from paper or envelopes where you can slide in notes, tags, or photos.

You can glue down three sides of a paper scrap to create a pocket, or repurpose envelopes.

Flip-Out Pages
Attach a page with washi tape so it flips open.

Fold-Out Sections
Use larger paper folded down to your journal size for hidden space.

Hidden Notes
Tuck journaling behind glued elements for a layered effect.

Using Everyday Materials

Don’t underestimate the power of everyday items.

Bubble mailers, for example, can be cut down and used as textured pages or pockets.

Packaging materials, tags, and even paper bags can add interest and variety.

This is where junk journaling really shines—it transforms the ordinary into something meaningful.

There’s No “Right” Way (And Definitely No Wrong Way)

It’s worth repeating: there is no wrong way to junk journal.

If your pages feel messy, that’s okay.
If they feel too simple, that’s okay too.
If you skip pages, jump around, or change styles completely—that’s part of the process.

A junk journal is meant to reflect you, not a set of rules.

Tips for Getting Started

If you’re feeling unsure, here are a few gentle tips:

Start small—just one page is enough
Keep your supplies within reach
Don’t wait for “perfect” materials
Let go of perfection
Follow your mood instead of a plan
Growing Your Journal Over Time

One of the most satisfying things about using ring binding is watching your journal grow.

You'll be able to enjoy:

Add more pages anytime
Rearrange sections
Remove pages if needed
Expand with larger rings later

It becomes a living, evolving project.

Exploring Other Popular Journal Styles

If you love junk journaling, you might also enjoy exploring other trending journal forms:

Art Journals

Focused on painting, drawing, and mixed media.

Bullet Journals
Structured layouts for planning and tracking.

Smash Books
Similar to junk journals but often more scrapbook-style.

Travel Journals
Document trips with maps, tickets, and notes.

Gratitude Journals
Simple daily reflections on positive moments.

Each style offers something different, but they all share that same core idea—capturing life in a tangible way.

That's it!

Creating a junk journal is less about crafting something perfect and more about giving yourself a space to exist creatively without pressure.

From the simple act of cutting your pages to the spontaneous decision to fill a spread with stickers, every part of the process invites you to slow down and enjoy making.

Whether you’re tracking feelings, collecting memories, or just playing with paper and color, your journal becomes a reflection of your life in its most authentic form.

So gather your scraps, grab those binder rings, and start building something that’s entirely your own.

Because in the world of junk journaling, the imperfect, layered, slightly chaotic pages? Those are the ones that end up meaning the most.

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CHECK OUT THESE FUN PAPER CRAFT TUTORIALS TOO--THEY'LL BLEND PERFECTLY WITH YOUR JUNK JOURNAL:

How to Use We R Makers Typecast Mint Typewriter Craft

Falling in Love with the Old-Fashioned Way: My We R Makers Typecast Decorative Retro Typewriter Review.

There’s something magical about doing things the old-fashioned way...and it's ready to use straight out of the box.

How to make a Gel Plate Monoprint with a Feather

Learn how to make monoprints using the Gelli Arts gel plate, acrylic paint and a feather or two.

Gel plate printing is a fun craft--it's fast and easy, there's no skill level and it's a surprise every time you pull a print.

Gel plate printing is great for background texture in scrapbooks, card making, junk journaling, art journals, calligraphy background and as fun modern art.

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Found Objects Printing:

How to do Monoprinting Art with Found Object DIY

Get busy making monoprints using the Gelli Arts gel plate, acrylic paint and random found objects.

This fun craft is fast and easy, there's no skill level (try it with kids for a fun craft day) and it's a surprise every time you pull a print.

Gel plate printing is great for background texture in scrapbooks, card making, junk journaling, art journals and as fun modern art.

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Printing with Flowers:

How to Make Botanical Monoprint with Silk Flowers

Learn how to do monoprints using the Gelli Arts gel plate, acrylic paint and flowers.

This fun craft is fast and easy, there's no skill level and it's a surprise every time you pull a print.

Gel plate printing is great for background texture in scrapbooks, card making, junk journaling, art journals and as fun modern art.

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Jellie Printing with Bubble Wrap:

How to Make Bubble Wrap Monoprint with Gel Plate

Learn how to do monoprints using the Gelli Arts gel plate, acrylic paint and bubble wrap.

This fun craft is fast and easy, there's no skill level and it's a surprise every time you pull a print.

Gel plate printing is great for background texture in scrapbooks, card making, junk journaling, art journals and as fun modern art.

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Mono Prints with Layers:

How to Make Monoprint Gel Plate Print with Layers

Make gorgeous monoprints using the Gelli Arts gel plate, Plaid Crafts acrylic paint and multiple layers, using masking images.

This fun craft is fast and easy, there's no skill level and it's a surprise every time you pull a print.

Gel plate printing is great for background texture in scrapbooks, card making, junk journaling, art journals and as fun modern art.

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Gelli Arts Prints with Magazine Pages:

How to Make Gel Plate Monoprints with Magazine Image

Make beautiful Gelli Arts monoprints using the a gel plate, Plaid Multi-Surface acrylic paint and glossy magazine or book pages.

This fun craft is fast and easy, there's no skill level and it's a surprise every time you pull a print.

Gel plate printing is great for background texture in scrapbooks, card making, junk journaling, art journals and as fun modern art.

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Monoprinting with Leaves:

How to Make Monoprinting Art with Leaves (Leaf Print)

Learn how to do monoprints using the Gelli Arts gel plate, acrylic paint and leaves or other natural materials.

This fun craft is fast and easy, there's no skill level and it's a surprise every time you pull a print.

Gel plate printing is great for background texture in scrapbooks, card making, junk journaling, art journals and as fun modern art.

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Gel Plate Printing with Lace:

How to Monoprint with Gelli Arts Gel Plate Using Lace

Learn how to do monoprints using the Gelli Arts gel plate, acrylic paint and a piece of lace.

This fun craft is fast and easy, there's no skill level and it's a surprise every time you pull a print.

Gel plate monotype printing is great for background texture in scrapbooks, card making, junk journaling, art journals and as fun modern art.

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Stenciled Monoprints on Gel Plate:

How to Make Gel Plate Monoprint with Stencils DIY

Learn how to do monoprints using the Gelli Arts gel plate, acrylic paint and stencils.

This fun craft is fast and easy, there's no skill level and it's a surprise every time you pull a print.

Gel plate printing is great for background texture in scrapbooks, card making, junk journaling, art journals and as fun modern art.

________________________________________________

Monoprints and Mixed Media:

How to Make Mixed Media Art Monoprint with Gel Plate

Making beautiful monoprints using the Gelli Arts gel plate, acrylic paints and mixed media elements is a fascinating art form and lots of fun.

This fun craft is fast and easy, there's no skill level (great for young artists) and it's a surprise every time you pull a print.

Gel plate printing is great for background texture in scrapbooks, card making, junk journaling, art journals and as fun modern art.

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Make Backwoodsman Magazine Issues (Fallout Crafts)

2026-04-01T06:00:00.195-04:00

Make Backwoodsman Magazine Issues (Fallout Crafts)

There’s something wildly satisfying about recreating fictional props in real life—especially when they look this authentic.

These notebooks mimic the look of the latest issue of a rugged outdoors publication, complete with that slightly tongue-in-cheek survival vibe...you can make notebooks just like this with any theme!

IF YOU LOVE FALLOUT CRAFTS, FOLLOW ME @FALLOUTCRAFTS ON INSTAGRAM!

Think: practical advice, bold vintage-style graphics, and that iconic “survive at all costs” aesthetic.

Whether you’re making one or a whole stack of back issues, this tutorial will walk you through everything step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Project

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here’s why this craft is a must-try:

It’s beginner-friendly (no fancy tools required)
Perfect for Fallout fans or cosplay props
Great for Fallout themed party favors
Makes amazing gifts or journal notebooks
Totally customizable (you can create your own current issue designs!)
Great for using up paper scraps

Also… let’s be honest. There’s just something hilarious about flipping through your own handmade survival magazine and imagining what kind of chaotic advice Charlie Jr. would be giving in the wasteland.

Let's get started!

Supplies You’ll Need for Magazine Notebook DIY:

affiliate links

Here’s everything I used to make my notebooks:

Printed Backwoodsman magazine cover (on glossy or brochure paper)
Standard printer paper (for inside pages)
Score board (for crisp folds)
Guillotine Paper Cutter (or Stack Cutter)
Stapler (I used the We R Makers stapler)
Ruler
Pencil
Bone folder (optional but helpful)

⬇️⬇️FREE Backwoodsmans Magazine Printout available at the end of this post!⬇️⬇️

Step 1: Print Your Magazine Cover

Start by printing your Backwoodsman magazine cover.

For the best results:

Use glossy or semi-gloss paper for that authentic magazine look
Set your printer to high-quality print settings
Make sure the image is sized correctly (around half-fold booklet size)

If you want to go the extra mile, you can:

Slightly desaturate colors for a vintage feel
Add faux wear marks or distressing
Create multiple designs to mimic different back issues

This is where your creativity can really shine—especially if you want to design your own latest issue headlines with ridiculous survival tips.

Note: This magazine is sized to fit on a standard sheet of paper, but there is some trimming that needs to happen.

Just cut the filler paper the size of the magazine page and you can trim the edges after it's all stapled together.

Step 2: Score the Cover

This step makes a HUGE difference.

Place your printed cover, printed side UP, onto your score board and line it up at the center. Use the scoring tool to create a clean crease right down the middle.

Why score instead of just folding?

Because glossy paper tends to crack or wrinkle when folded without scoring. This step gives you that crisp, professional magazine fold.

Once scored, gently fold along the crease and press it flat.

Glossy paper looks amazing, but it has one major weakness.

It cracks when you fold it.

That is where the scoreboard becomes your best friend.

Scoring creates a compressed line in the paper that lets it fold cleanly without breaking the surface.

Step 3: Prepare the Interior Pages

Take your standard printer paper and:

Stack several sheets together (5–10 sheets depending on how thick you want your notebook)
Fold them in half
Press the fold firmly using your fingers or a bone folder

Next, trim the edges if needed so they fit neatly inside your cover.

Pro tip: Make the inner pages just slightly smaller than the cover so everything lines up cleanly.

Step 4: Assemble Your Notebook

Now for the fun part—putting it all together.

Place your folded paper stack inside the folded cover
Align all edges carefully
Tap the stack on a flat surface to even everything out

At this point, it should already look like a mini magazine. And honestly, it’s kind of magical seeing it come together.

Step 5: Mark Your Staple Placement

To get those perfectly placed staples along the spine, use your ruler to measure and mark where the staples should go.

Typically:
One staple near the top
One staple near the bottom

Keep them evenly spaced for that authentic magazine look.

This is where the We R Makers stapler really shines—it’s designed for precise placement, which makes a big difference.

Step 6: Staple Your Notebook Using the We R Makers Stapler

This is where the magic happens. The We R Makers Evolution Advanced stapler is designed specifically for binding projects like this, and once you figure out how it works, you will wonder how you ever lived without it.

Take the base piece of the We R Makers stapler and slide it underneath your closed notebook, positioning it directly under your first pencil mark. The base has a channel that supports the paper while the staple punches through.

Place the stapler head on top of your notebook, directly over the first pencil mark and aligned with the base below.

Press down gently first to make sure the stapler is positioned correctly and the paper is not shifting. You should feel the stapler teeth start to grip the paper.

Once you are confident everything is lined up, press down firmly and smoothly. The stapler will punch the staple through all the layers, and the base below will clinch it closed.

Reposition the base under your second pencil mark.
Place the stapler head on top of the second mark.
Press down firmly and smoothly to set the second staple.

You have just bound a notebook with perfectly placed staples that look like they were done by a professional bindery. If this is your first time using this stapler, practice on a scrap notebook first. The technique is simple, but it takes one or two tries to get a feel for how much pressure you need and how to position everything.

Using the We R Makers stapler, repeat for the second staple:

Line up the base under your marked spot
Position the stapler on top
Press gently first to make sure everything is aligned
Then press firmly to insert the staple through the entire stack

And just like that… you’ve got a perfectly bound notebook!

This stapler makes those center fold...or any location staples possible!

Step 7: Final Touches

Once stapled, flip through your notebook and check:

Are all pages aligned?
Is the fold crisp?
Do the staples sit flat?

If needed, press the spine again to sharpen the fold.
Optional extras:

Lightly distress the edges with sandpaper
Ink the edges for a vintage effect
Add handwritten notes inside for that “found journal” vibe
Creative Variations

Once you’ve made one, it’s hard to stop. Here are some fun ways to take this project further:

Create a Full Series of Back Issues

Design multiple covers with different themes:

Survival tips
Hunting guides
Wild food foraging
Ridiculous wasteland advice

Stack them together and suddenly you’ve got a whole collection of back issues that look straight out of the Fallout universe.

Make theme specific magazines for party favors or non-treat gifts!

Make a “Current Issue” With Your Own Spin

Design your own current issue with funny headlines like:

“How to Cook Radroach Without Regret”
“Top 10 Places to Avoid Mutants”
“Why Duct Tape Fixes Everything”

Lean into humor—it’s part of the charm.

Add Real Content Inside

Instead of blank pages, try:

Printing journal prompts
Adding sketches or diagrams
Writing your own “practical advice” articles

Imagine flipping through and seeing notes from Charlie Jr. about surviving the wilderness… it just makes the whole thing feel alive.

Use as a Gift or Prop

These notebooks are PERFECT for:

Fallout-themed gifts
Cosplay accessories
Party favors
Journaling

They look especially cool stacked together or tossed into a themed display.

Tips for the Best Results

A few things I learned while making mine:

Glossy paper = more realistic magazine feel
Scoring is non-negotiable for clean folds
Don’t overstuff the notebook—too many pages make stapling harder
Measure twice before stapling (crooked staples are heartbreak)
Keep everything aligned before pressing down

Why This Project Works So Well

There’s a reason this craft is so satisfying.

It hits that perfect combination of:

Easy + impressive

Functional + decorative

Nostalgic + creative

Plus, it taps into that love of storytelling. You’re not just making a notebook—you’re creating a little piece of a world.

For outdoor enthusiasts (real or fictional), a rugged, advice-filled magazine just feels right. Even if the advice is slightly… questionable.

That's it!

This DIY Backwoodsman magazine notebook project is one of those crafts that checks all the boxes: simple, fun, customizable, and incredibly cool when finished.

Whether you’re making a single notebook or building out an entire stack of back issues, you’ll end up with something that feels straight out of the wasteland.

And honestly? There’s something pretty great about jotting down your grocery list or daily thoughts inside something that looks like it might also contain tips on surviving a nuclear apocalypse.

If you make one (or ten!), I’d love to hear what kind of latest issue headlines you come up with!

Happy crafting!

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⬇️⬇️FREE Backwoodsmans Magazine Printables, plus a treasure trove of other Fallout freebies!⬇️⬇️

CHECK OUT THESE FUN FALLOUT CRAFTS TOO!

Fallout Crafts: How to Make Cram Caps Stash DIY

A creative wasteland-inspired craft for fans, parties, and props

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably gone down the rabbit hole of fallout crafts lately—and honestly, I’m not even mad about it.

There’s just something wildly fun about turning everyday objects into post-apocalyptic treasures.

This project started while on a trip to Michaels with a friend, I spotted the Big Mouth Inc SPAM stash and knew I had to DIY it into a CRAM stash!

How to Make Fallout Stimpak Prop DIY Wasteland Craft

(Fallout 76 Inspired DIY Weathered Prop Tutorial)

If you snagged the Dave’s Hot Chicken Fallout Meal toy and thought, “This is cute… but it needs more wasteland grime,” you’re in the right place.

How to Press Fallout DTF Transfer on Drawstring Bag

Make the perfect Fallout inspired Bottle and Cappy Drawstring Bag with a DTF transfer and a heat press!

If you’re a craft lover, small business owner, or simply someone who enjoys fun DIY projects, customizing tote bags and drawstring bags with DTF prints is a good idea for adding a personalized touch to ordinary bags.

How to Make Fallout Wasteland Warrior Scrap Frame DIY

Craft your own post-apocalyptic frame wall art using plaster, Mod Podge, and Fallout flair!

Create your very own piece of post-apocalyptic wasteland art!

Learn how to easily make a Fallout-themed frame using a base of wet plaster and filling it with found junk item finds like bottle caps, bobby pins, chains, bullet casings, ultracite and more.

Acmer Ascarva CNC Router Machine Review for Crafts

2026-03-30T06:00:00.201-04:00

Acmer Ascarva CNC Router Machine Review for Crafts

When I first heard I’d be reviewing the new Acmer Ascarva 4S CNC Routing Machine, I was genuinely excited to dive into something a little different and expand my creative toolkit. (affiliate links)

There’s something so satisfying about testing out new equipment—especially a cnc machine that opens the door to precision carving, custom designs, and experimenting with a whole new set of materials.

I couldn’t wait to get it unboxed, set up, and see what kind of projects I could bring to life with it.

Learn all about the Acmer Ascarva 4S CNC Routing Machine from unboxing, setup and getting started!

Acmer Ascarva CNC Router Machine

I was asked by Acmer to review one of their new tools, I asked for the Laser Cutter...what arrived was the Acmer Ascarva 4S CNC Routing Machine.

Getting the wrong tool in the mail is… not exactly the dream start to a review.

But sometimes those curveballs end up being surprisingly useful—and that’s honestly where I landed with the Acmer Ascarva CNC router.

I originally expected a laser machine, something right in my crafting comfort zone.

Instead, I opened a surprisingly big box and found myself staring at a full CNC machine.

Not exactly what I had planned to add to my workspace—but as a reviewer (and curious maker), I decided to lean in and give it a fair shot.

First Impressions & Unboxing

Right out of the gate, the packaging was solid.

The Acmer Ascarva 4S CNC Routing Machine arrived in good condition, neatly organized, and well-protected.

The components felt thoughtfully packed, and nothing appeared damaged or loose during shipping—which is always a good sign when dealing with precision tools.

The Acmer Ascarva has a modular design, which is great in theory and in practice—but it does mean assembly is required.

And by “assembly,” I mean quite a bit of it.

Acmer CNC Assembly Experience

It took my husband and me about an hour to fully assemble the machine. There are a lot of screws. Like… a lot. It’s not overly complicated, but it is time-consuming, especially if you’re new to building machines like this.

The included tools technically get the job done, but they’re not the highest quality. We quickly switched to our own tools, which made the process smoother and faster.

That said, the instructions were clear enough, and we didn’t run into any major roadblocks—just the occasional minor issue like aligning parts or tightening everything evenly.

➡️Once assembled, the build quality really stood out. The frame feels sturdy, and the overall construction gives you confidence that it can handle consistent use. It’s not flimsy or toy-like—it feels like a great machine meant for real projects.

The “Now What?” Moment

Here’s where things got a little… interesting.

After assembly, the CNC machine sat on our table for about a month. Why? Because it doesn’t come with its own dedicated software. That was honestly one of the biggest hurdles in the overall user experience.

If you’re brand new to CNC routing, this could feel overwhelming. There’s a bit of a learning curve just figuring out what software to use and how to get started.

I ended up watching a tutorial from The Laser Channel, which helped point me in the right direction.

Walking viewers through the software, Easel and configuring it with the Acmer machine.

From there, I started up Easel, which offers a 14 day free trial without requiring a credit card—super helpful when you’re just testing the waters.

Getting It Up and Running

Once I finally dove in, things started to click.

Connecting the machine and getting the spindle going wasn’t too difficult once I had the right setup, and after a bit of trial and error, I was able to run my first test.

That moment—when the bit starts spinning and the machine actually begins carving—is incredibly satisfying.

Working Area & Capabilities

The AAcmer Ascarva 4S CNC Routing Machine offers a decent working area for hobbyists and beginners.

It’s not massive, but it’s large enough for small to medium projects like signs, decorative panels, and craft pieces.

For someone just getting into CNC routing, the work area feels like a sweet spot—not too overwhelming, but still capable of handling larger projects when needed.

Materials & Testing

I tested a few different materials to see how the machine handled them.

First up were the sample materials included with the CNC machine. These appeared to be some sort of resin composite. While they cut fine, the dust had a strong smell—which immediately made me think, “Yeah… I probably shouldn’t be breathing this.”

That’s not necessarily a fault of the machine, but it does highlight the importance of proper ventilation and safety precautions when working with various materials.

Next, I moved on to birch plywood. This gave me much better results. The cuts were cleaner, and the overall finish looked more polished.

If I were to continue using this CNC machine regularly, I’d likely stick with MDF or mm base wood for consistency. MDF, in particular, seems like it would be ideal for achieving smoother results and better fine details.

Project Results

I completed three routed projects during my testing phase. None of them turned out absolutely perfect—but they were good enough to show the machine’s potential.

With more time to get everything dialed in—like feed rates, depth settings, and material selection—I’m confident the results would improve significantly.

That’s an important thing to understand about CNC machines: there’s a learning curve. You don’t just hit “go” and get flawless results immediately. It takes a bit of practice and experimentation.

Software Experience (Easel)

Easel ended up being a great starting point.

One of my favorite features is that it estimates how long a project will take before you begin.

That’s such a nice feature, especially when you’re planning your time or deciding whether to start a project late in the day.

The interface is beginner-friendly, and it made the transition into CNC routing much less intimidating.

Safety & Practical Considerations

CNC machines create dust—sometimes a lot of it. And depending on the material, that dust can be unpleasant or even unsafe to inhale.

The dust was super well managed. The spindle bit is really fine and it only routes a small amount at a time, so the dust does not kick up or even leave the platform, so it's easy to clean up.

I definitely recommend using a dust collection system or at least working in a well-ventilated area. A smoke air purifier or shop vacuum setup would go a long way here.

The machine itself includes basic safety features, and while it doesn’t have a full enclosure, you can absolutely build or buy one if needed.

Who This Machine Is For

This is where my perspective really shifted.

At first, I wasn’t excited about receiving a CNC machine. It wasn’t what I wanted, and it pushed me out of my comfort zone.

But after spending time with the Acmer Ascarva 4S CNC Routing Machine, I can honestly say it’s a great product for the right person.

If you’re a beginner looking to get into CNC routing, this is a solid entry point. It’s approachable, reasonably easy to assemble, and capable of producing quality results with a bit of practice.

It’s especially well-suited for:

Hobbyists
DIY enthusiasts
Small business owners making custom signs or decor
Anyone curious about CNC without wanting to invest in a high-end machine right away

Customer Support & Brand Impression

While I didn’t have to rely heavily on support, it’s worth mentioning that Acmer’s team has a presence online and appears to be actively engaged with their community.

Having access to a support team and resources—like tutorials and forums—makes a big difference when you’re learning a new tool.

A Quick Note on Acmer Laser Machines

Even though I ended up with the CNC machine instead of a laser machine, I was originally excited to explore Acmer’s laser lineup—and honestly, it’s easy to see why they’ve become so popular with makers.

Acmer offers a wide range of options, from the acmer p series like the Acmer P 3 48W to the acmer s models and the s pro line, all designed to give users flexibility depending on their needs and budget.

Many of these machines feature a powerful laser module with different watt laser configurations, including a 48 w laser and other w module options, making them capable of both laser cutting and detailed engraving. What really stands out are the thoughtful key features, like a built-in camera for precision placement, air assist for cleaner cuts, and compatibility with LightBurn software—something every laser enthusiast appreciates.

Their systems are designed to handle various materials, from mm pine and mm base wood to cast 3 mm acrylic and even stainless steel with the right setup. The corexy structure helps improve speed and accuracy, putting them in the running for the best budget laser engraver category.

Acmer also leans into a modular design, offering upgrades like a 2-in-1 laser head, blue diode laser, laser lens enhancements, and accessories like an air pipe or smoke air purifier for a better workspace.

Newer models like the acmer ap expand the work area and offer options like a full enclosure, making them great for batch work, intricate designs, and even large wooden signs. Backed by acmer’s customer service team, a month exchange warranty, and ongoing updates through social media, exclusive content, early sale access, and new arrivals, Acmer is clearly focused on building a connected ecosystem.

From a new startup to experienced creators, their lineup delivers a good experience with clever design, reliable components like the main board, power supply, and power cable, and the flexibility to grow—whether you're using a 10 w diode head, experimenting with an IR laser, or exploring hybrid setups alongside something like the Ascarva S CNC router machine.

That's it--let's sum up!

So… did I end up loving the fact that I received a CNC machine instead of a laser? Not exactly.

But did I gain a new appreciation for what CNC routing can do? Absolutely.

The Acmer Ascarva 4S CNC Routing Machine is a great machine for beginners and anyone curious about expanding their creative toolkit. It’s not perfect—there’s a learning curve, and the lack of included software can slow you down at first—but once you get past those hurdles, it opens up a whole new world of possibilities.

If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting, learning new skills, and creating custom pieces, this machine could be a fantastic addition to your workspace.

For me, it might not become my go-to tool—but I’m genuinely glad I gave it a chance.

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Fallout Crafts: How to Make Cram Caps Stash DIY

2026-03-27T06:00:00.207-04:00

Fallout Crafts: How to Make Cram Caps Stash DIY

A creative wasteland-inspired craft for fans, parties, and props

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably gone down the rabbit hole of fallout crafts lately—and honestly, I’m not even mad about it.

There’s just something wildly fun about turning everyday objects into post-apocalyptic treasures.

This project started while on a trip to Michaels with a friend, I spotted the Big Mouth Inc SPAM stash and knew I had to DIY it into a CRAM stash!

Cue instant inspiration

Using a decoy can safe by Big Mouth Inc (mine was the classic spam version), I transformed it into a Fallout-inspired CRAM can—perfect for hiding bottle caps, small valuables, or just displaying as part of your themed decor. It’s functional, it’s nostalgic, and it looks like it came straight from the wasteland.

Let’s dive into this super fun project. I’ll walk you through every step of making your own CRAM stash can, plus share ideas for customizing it for available use, using it for party props, and making it your own.

Why This Craft Is So Perfect

Before we get into the how-to, let’s talk about why this project is such a win:

It’s beginner-friendly (no fancy tools required)
It uses easy-to-find supplies
It doubles as both decor and a secret safe
It’s perfect for any Fallout fan
It’s great for themed parties or cosplay props
It feels like something you’d actually find in the game

Also… there’s something incredibly satisfying about hiding a stash of caps inside a food can. It just feels right.

Grab your crafting buddy--in my case, Jeff, and let's get started!

Supplies You’ll Need for CRAM STASH DIY:

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SPAM Decoy can safe
Printer (I used my Canon Pixma)
Printable CRAM label/image (free file at the end of this post, down arrows ⬇️⬇️⬇️)
Double-sided adhesive tape runner
Scissors, hobby knife or paper cutter
Optional: clear tape or sealant for durability

That’s it! Seriously—this is one of those low-effort, high-reward crafts.

Step 1: Find or Design Your CRAM Label

FREE LABEL and other FALLOUT FILES at the end of this post!

The first step in making your CRAM can is getting the label just right. You can either:

Design your own custom label
Download one from fan communities (check r/fo4 for inspiration and suggestions)
Or scan and edit an existing image

When I was trying to find the perfect look, I searched through autocomplete results and browsed tons of fan-made fallout props. There are so many creative options out there!

Tips for your label:

Aim for a slightly worn, vintage look
Add subtle discoloration for that “atomic age” feel
Make sure the sizing fits your can exactly
Use high-resolution images for best print quality

Step 2: Print Your Label

Once your design is ready, print it out on your home printer.

There are 2 CRAM files, one is worn and one is pristine, decide which look you are going for.

I used my Canon Pixma, and it handled the colors beautifully. If you want that authentic “prewar food” vibe, consider:

Using glossy paper for that spam shine
Slightly lowering saturation

This step really sets the tone for the entire craft.

Here's the underside of the SPAM stash, it opens a small door that you can fill the inside with all kinds of bullion, caps and wanted posters.

Step 3: Remove the Original Label

Now grab your decoy can safe and carefully remove the original spam label.

Most of these peel off pretty easily, but if yours is stubborn:

Use a little heat (like a hair dryer)
Or gently scrape with a craft knife

You want a clean surface so your new label adheres smoothly, it's just taped on one edge, so it's relatively easy to remove and replace.

Step 4: Trim and Fit Your CRAM Wrap

Cut out your printed CRAM label and test-fit it around the can.

This is where the magic starts happening—it suddenly goes from “regular object” to “fallout prop.”

Make sure:

The edges line up neatly
The height matches the can
The seam is positioned where it’ll be least noticeable

Step 5: Apply Adhesive and Attach

Flip your label over and apply double-sided adhesive using your tape runner.

Then carefully wrap it around the can, smoothing as you go to avoid bubbles or wrinkles.

Take your time here—this step makes all the difference in how professional your final craft looks.

Step 6: Seal (Optional but Recommended)

If you want your CRAM can to last through conventions, parties, or lots of handling, add a protective layer.

Options include:

Clear packing tape over the label
Matte spray sealant
Laminating before applying

This is especially helpful if you’re planning to use it as part of a party setup or interactive props display.

Step 7: Fill Your Secret Stash

Here’s the fun part.

Open the hidden compartment at the base of your safe and fill it with:

Bottle caps (obviously!)
Small valuables
Cash
Tiny notes or trinkets
Bullion
Wanted Posters
Stamps
Scrip
Treasury Notes

Now you’ve got a fully functional stash hidden in plain sight.

Creative Ideas for Using Your CRAM Can

This project isn’t just a one-and-done craft—it opens the door to tons of creative possibilities.

Fallout Party Decor

Throw a themed party and scatter these cans around as decor. You could even:

Hide clues inside for a scavenger hunt
Use them as table centerpieces
Create a full “wasteland food” display

Pair with items like nuka cola bottles, fake campfire setups, and other fallout props for a cohesive look.

Cosplay Accessories

This is the perfect addition to any Fallout cosplay.

Clip it onto a bag, carry it as a prop, or use it as part of your character’s backstory stash.

Gift Ideas for Fans

Know a Fallout fan? This is such a thoughtful, custom gift.

You could:

Fill it with themed stickers
Add mini collectibles
Include inside jokes from the game

It’s creative, personal, and way more fun than anything store-bought.

____________________________________

Everyday Secret Safe

Let’s be real—this is also just a great hiding spot.

It blends in with regular food items, making it a clever safe for:

Emergency cash
Small valuables
Personal items

No one’s going to suspect the cram can.

Customization Ideas

Once you’ve made one, you’ll probably want to make more (I definitely did).

Here are some fun variations:

Weathered, rusted versions using paint
Bright, clean “prewar” versions
Custom labels with your own text
Non-geometric distressed wraps for a more realistic look

You could even create a whole set of fallout food cans—imagine a shelf full of them. So good.

_____________________________________

Tips for the Best Results

A few things I learned along the way:

Measure twice before printing--glossy paper is thicker than regular printer paper and doesn't quite wrap around the same
Use strong adhesive for durability
Smooth slowly to avoid wrinkles
Don’t stress about perfection—imperfections add character

This isn’t supposed to look factory-made. It’s supposed to look like it survived the apocalypse.

That's it!

I absolutely love how this project turned out. It hits that sweet spot between nostalgic, functional, and creative—and it’s just plain fun to make.

There’s something about taking a simple object and transforming it into a piece of a fictional world that feels incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making this for a party, for decor, or just because you’re a die-hard fallout fan, it’s one of those crafts that delivers way more joy than the effort it takes.

And honestly? I’ll probably make a whole collection.

Because once you start turning everyday items into wasteland treasures…it’s hard to stop.

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⬇️⬇️⬇️download the files here⬇️⬇️⬇️

CHECK OUT THESE OTHER FUN WASTELAND FALLOUT CRAFTS:

How to Make Nuka Cola LED Sign (Fallout Craft DIY)

If you’re a fan of the Fallout series or games, then you already know one thing for sure — the Nuka Cola logo deserves to glow.

There’s something about vintage-style neon signs that fits perfectly with that retro-futuristic Fallout aesthetic.

How to Make Fallout Stimpak Prop DIY Wasteland Craft

(Fallout 76 Inspired DIY Weathered Prop Tutorial)

If you snagged the Dave’s Hot Chicken Fallout Meal toy and thought, “This is cute… but it needs more wasteland grime,” you’re in the right place.

How to Press Fallout DTF Transfer on Drawstring Bag

Make the perfect Fallout inspired Bottle and Cappy Drawstring Bag with a DTF transfer and a heat press!

How to Make Fallout Wasteland Warrior Scrap Frame DIY

Craft your own post-apocalyptic frame wall art using plaster, Mod Podge, and Fallout flair!

Create your very own piece of post-apocalyptic wasteland art!

Learn how to easily make a Fallout-themed frame using a base of wet plaster and filling it with found junk item finds like bottle caps, bobby pins, chains, bullet casings, ultracite and more.

How to Make Slate Coasters with Laser Engraving xTool

Laser engraving slate is one of the most satisfying projects you can make with the xTool S1.

Slate engraves cleanly, contrasts beautifully, and makes even simple designs look high-end.

Whether you’re creating fandom-inspired pieces (like my Fallout-themed Vault-Tec and Nuka-Cola coasters), personalized home décor, or easy gifts for friends and family, slate coasters are quick, customizable, and consistently impressive.

Follow me on Instagram and TikTok - make craft tutorials daily!

How to Use We R Makers Typecast Mint Typewriter Craft

2026-03-25T06:00:00.038-04:00

How to Use We R Makers Typecast Mint Typewriter Craft

Falling in Love with the Old-Fashioned Way: My We R Makers Typecast Decorative Retro Typewriter Review.

There’s something magical about doing things the old-fashioned way...and it's ready to use straight out of the box.

The Beauty of Imperfection

In a world where everything is fast, digital, and autocorrected within an inch of its life, slowing down to press each key—feeling the resistance, hearing the click-clack—just hits differently. It’s not just writing… it’s an experience.

One of my favorite things about using a vintage typewriter style tool like this is that it’s not perfect.

Sometimes the letters aren’t perfectly aligned.
Sometimes the spacing is a little quirky.
Sometimes you make a typo and just… roll with it.

Those little imperfections are what make your projects feel human. Real. Handmade in the truest sense of the word.

In a world of perfectly filtered everything, that kind of authenticity stands out.

And you know what? That’s where the magic is.

Typecast Retro Typewriter

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That’s exactly how I felt the moment I sat down with my We R Memory Keepers Typecast Decorative Retro Typewriter in that dreamy aqua color.

It instantly took me back to being a kid, sitting at my grandma Nelda’s house, completely fascinated by her vintage typewriter.

And let me tell you… not much has changed. I’m still just as obsessed.

A Little Nostalgia Goes a Long Way

Growing up, my grandma Nelda had a typewriter that felt like pure magic.

It wasn’t sleek or quiet. It didn’t glow or buzz or connect to Wi-Fi. It was sturdy, a little heavy, and made the most satisfying sound every time a key hit the paper. I remember sitting there for hours, carefully pressing each letter, watching my words appear like something official… something important.

And yes… I absolutely typed “ransom notes” for fun. 😂

There was just something about that process—the intention behind every word—that made it feel more real than anything I could scribble with a pen.

So when I got my hands on the typecast collection, it wasn’t just about trying a new crafting tool. It was like reopening a little door to childhood.

First Impressions of the Typecast Collection

The first thing that caught my eye? The color. (although it's also available in BLACK, PINK, WHITE and MINT)

That soft mint is everything. It feels fresh, playful, and just vintage enough to give you those retro vibes without looking outdated. It fits perfectly in a craft room, especially if you love a mix of modern and nostalgic style.

But once I started using the We R Makers Typecast Decorative Retro Typewriter, I realized it’s not just cute—it’s incredibly functional.

The We R Makers Typecase Typewriter is more than a writing tool...you'll get:

That satisfying tactile typing experience
A sturdy, well-built machine
Clean, crisp albeit wonky lettering
And the ability to use it across so many different crafting projects
Ready to use straight out of the box
Ribbon threaded and can shift from black to red text with the click of a button
The classic bell chime when you get to the end of the row on this mint typewriter is my favorite!

It’s basically the perfect blend of old-school charm and creative versatility.

The Feel of a Vintage Typewriter (Without the Hassle)

If you’ve ever used a vintage typewriter, you know it’s not always… easy.

They can be finicky, heavy, and sometimes require a little “convincing” to cooperate. But this one? It gives you that same nostalgic feel without the frustration.

You still have to press the keys firmly—which I actually love. It makes you slow down and think about what you’re writing. Each word feels intentional.

And the sound? That soft, rhythmic clicking is honestly half the joy.

It’s not just about the end result—it’s about the process. And that’s something we don’t get enough of anymore.

Typing on Gel Plate Printed Paper (Game Changer)

Okay, this might be my favorite part.

I LOVE that I can roll gel plate printed paper right into the typewriter and type directly on top of those painted, textured backgrounds.

If you’ve ever worked with gel prints, you know how unique and one-of-a-kind they are. Every single piece has its own personality. Being able to layer typed words over that? It takes things to a whole new level.

The typecast is perfect for:

Art journaling
Junk journals
Handmade cards
Scrapbooking layouts
Mixed media projects

There’s something so satisfying about combining messy, creative paint layers with clean, structured type. That contrast is just chef’s kiss.

Why This Typewriter Belongs in Every Craft Room

If you love paper crafting even a little bit, the typecast collection is one of those tools you didn’t know you needed… until you have it.

Here’s why I keep reaching for my We R Makers Typecast Decorative Retro Typewriter:

✨ It Makes Your Projects Feel More Personal

Handwritten notes are lovely, but typed messages have a totally different vibe. They feel timeless—like something you’d tuck into a keepsake box and rediscover years later.

✨ It Adds Instant Vintage Charm

Want your project to look like it came straight out of an old journal or antique shop? A few typed lines will do it instantly.

✨ It Slows You Down (In the Best Way)

There’s no rushing with a typewriter. No deleting. No backspacing your way out of a typo spiral. You commit to the words—and that’s kind of beautiful.

✨ It’s Just Plain Fun

Let’s be real… sometimes crafting tools don’t need to be practical. They just need to make you smile. And this one absolutely does.

Let’s Talk About That “Ransom Note” Energy 😄

I can’t be the only one who did this as a kid…

There is something hilariously fun about typing random notes on a typewriter. Maybe it’s the dramatic spacing, or the slightly imperfect alignment, or just the fact that it looks so official.

Even now, I find myself typing little notes just because I can.

Shopping lists. Random thoughts. Quotes I love. Silly messages to tuck into my kids’ things.

It brings back that same playful creativity I had as a kid sitting at my grandma’s table—and honestly, I think we all need a little more of that.

Creative Ways to Use Your We R Memory Keepers Typecast Typewriter

If you’re wondering how to actually use this in your projects, here are some of my favorite ideas:

Journaling with Texture

Type directly onto patterned or painted paper to create layered journal pages that feel rich and dimensional.

Handmade Cards

Add a typed sentiment to a card front or inside message. It instantly elevates even the simplest design.

Scrapbooking Titles & Captions

Skip the stickers and type your titles or journaling blocks instead. It gives your layouts a cohesive, polished look.

Junk Journal Inserts

Create little typed notes, quotes, or lists to tuck into pockets and envelopes.

Gift Tags & Notes

Type out names or messages for a charming, vintage-inspired finishing touch.

A Connection Across Generations

Using this typewriter feels like more than just crafting.

It feels like a connection—to my childhood, to my grandma Nelda, and to a slower, simpler way of doing things.

I can almost picture her sitting there, typing letters, making lists, or just enjoying the quiet rhythm of the keys.

And now here I am, years later, doing the same thing—but adding my own creative twist with gel prints, journals, and colorful papers.

It’s funny how something as simple as a typewriter can carry so much meaning.

Is the We R Memory Keepers Typecast Typewriter Worth It?

Short answer? Yes. Absolutely. Also, if you need convincing, it's on sale.

We R Makers Typecast Decorative Retro Typewriter

If you love:

Nostalgic crafting tools
Unique ways to add text to your projects
Hands-on, tactile creative experiences
Mixing vintage style with modern creativity

…then this is 100% worth adding to your craft room.

The we r memory keepers typecast typewriter isn’t just a tool—it’s an experience. One that makes you slow down, get creative, and maybe even feel like a kid again.

That's it!

There’s something really special about stepping away from screens and creating the old-fashioned way.

No undo button.
No distractions.
Just you, your thoughts, and the satisfying rhythm of the keys.

Whether you’re typing journal entries, layering text over gel prints, or just making silly little notes for fun, this typewriter brings a kind of joy that’s hard to explain—but easy to feel.

And for me? It’s not just about crafting.
It’s about memories.
It’s about creativity.
And it’s about keeping a little piece of that vintage magic alive.

If you end up trying one, I’d love to hear what you make with it—especially if it involves a few “ransom notes.” 😉

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I love notebooks, do you? I have a bazillion notebooks. Some I write in...some I doodle in...and some just sit there, too nice to mark up. But I love notebooks all the same.

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I love making notebooks, journals, diaries, or sketchbooks and The Cinch Binding Tool is the perfect way!

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How to Make I-Cord Flowers (Knitted Wire Flower DIY)

2026-03-23T06:00:00.301-04:00

How to Make I-Cord Flowers (Knitted Wire Flower DIY)

DIY Yarn-Wrapped Wire Roses with I-Cord 🌹

A Beautiful Beginner-Friendly Tutorial combining the Caydo Electric Knitting Machine + Big Happy Jig from We R Makers.

LONG LASTING FLOWERS:

If you’ve ever wondered how to make a flower that never fades, this project is going to be your new favorite.

These beautiful flowers combine the structure of wire art with the softness of knitted i-cord, resulting in a stunning handmade diy creation that looks intricate—but is actually very approachable for a beginner.

FULL TUTORIAL GUIDES FOR EACH OF THE TOOLS USED HERE:

Let's get started!

WIRE ROSES WRAPPED IN YARN FOR BEGINNERS:

This is one of those rare projects where everything just clicks.

The machine does the repetitive work, the jig keeps your shapes consistent, and you get to focus on the fun part—bringing your i-cord flower to life.

Whether you're creating a bouquet, decorating your home, or sharing your latest diycrafts creation on Instagram, these roses are guaranteed to stand out.

Let’s dive into this full, detailed tutorial so you can learn exactly how to create your own ⬇️

Supplies Needed for I-Cord Wire Roses:

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We R Makers Big Happy Jig tool (on sale now!)
Caydo Electric i-cord Knitting Machine
3mm Aluminum wire
3mm Rubber End Caps (any color, mine are clear)
Yarn (#2, #3, or #4 weights only)
Yarn Needle

Before you start, gather everything in one place so your process feels smooth and enjoyable.

Note: Thank you to whoever's grandma passed away and donated all her wool yarn to the thrift store...I love it!

You’ll want your Big Happy Jig for shaping the wire, and your Caydo knitting machine for creating the i-cord. The included needle from the Caydo kit will be important later when you join the cords together.

For materials, you’ll need 3mm wire to form the structure of your flower, along with yarn in two colors—green for the stem and red (or any color you love) for the bloom. Thrifted wool yarn works beautifully here because it has a bit of grip and softness.

Don’t forget clear plastic end caps—these might seem like a small detail, but they make a huge difference when threading your cord onto the wire.

STEP 1: Shape the Wire Flower

Using the Big Happy Jig, place the pegs into the board in your desired flower shape.

This is where the jig really shines—it takes the guesswork out of shaping and allows you to create identical flowers every time.

Use the picture above and place your pegs in the same spot to make the same beautiful rose.

Here's the text for it:

Small peg:

L1, G2, O3, M5, L7, O8, E8, M10, F10, C14, R18, J21, J27, J41

Medium disc:

Starting slit wheel: H8, K3, D5, P5

Large disc:

D16, G20, M23, Q20

Begin by laying your wire in the slit wheel at H8, wrap the wire up and between 2 small pegs, around the medium size wheel and up and around the top.

Loop around the small pegs and bring it around the medium wheel, curving it all the way to the right side of the flower, creating one more loop before plunging into the stem.

Now you can decide if you want 2 leaves on your stem or just one.
Wrap the wire up and around the leaves.

Wrap your 3mm wire around the pegs, following the shape of the bloom and forming a long stem. As you work, keep your wire snug against the pegs so the lines stay clean and smooth.

Once your shape is complete, gently lift the wire off the jig. You’ll have a formed flower with a stem and a bloom made up of loops for a full rose shape.

Take a moment to adjust the wire if needed. Small tweaks can help refine the shape and make your flower look more natural.

Now, because the pattern is on your Big Happy Jig board, you can make as many of the same flower shape as you want!

This is a great way to manufacture a bunch of Spring flowers easily.

Lift the flower off the board and you'll notice the wire isn't totally perfect...and that's OK! --the icord will cover it up and make it shine beautifully.

STEP 2: Make Your I-Cord

This is where your project really begins, and honestly, it’s one of the most satisfying parts.

Using your Caydo machine, you’ll create long strands of knitted i-cord in both green and red. If you’ve never used an i-cord maker before, it might feel a little new at first, but it quickly becomes second nature.

Again, full tutorial here!

Start by carefully threading your yarn through the machine, making sure it’s seated properly in the guides. Once the yarn is in place, turn the machine on and gently guide the yarn as it feeds through. You’ll see the cord forming almost instantly.

What’s great about using a machine instead of knitting by hand is the consistency. Every stitch is even, and the cord has a smooth, tubular shape that slides nicely over wire.

Take your time here and make more cord than you think you’ll need. It’s always better to have extra than to run out halfway through a flower. Plus, once you see how quickly it works, you might find yourself making extra cords just for future ideas.

A helpful tip when working with i-cord is to keep your yarn tension steady. If the yarn pulls too tightly or too loosely, your cord can become uneven. A gentle, consistent feed will give you the best results.

STEP 3: Prepare the Wire Ends

Before adding your cord, you’ll want to protect both your materials and your hands.

Slide clear plastic end caps onto the ends of the wire. This step is easy to overlook, but it makes a huge difference. Without the caps, the sharp wire ends can catch on your yarn and cause fraying or tearing as you thread the cord.

The caps create a smooth surface, allowing the i-cord to glide over the wire more easily. This will save you time and frustration later on.

STEP 4: Cover Wire with I-Cord

Thread the Red I-Cord onto the Flower Bloom

Once the stem is covered, switch to your red i-cord for the bloom.

Begin threading the cord onto the loops of the flower, working your way from the outer edges toward the center and then down toward the stem. This part is where your flower really comes to life visually.

As you cover each loop, take care to keep the cord smooth and evenly distributed. You don’t want bunching or gaps—just a clean, continuous covering that enhances the shape of the wire underneath.

When you reach the point where the red and green cords meet, you’ll notice a slight separation. That’s completely normal—and the next step will bring everything together seamlessly.

Thread the Green I-Cord onto the Stem

Now comes the part where your flower starts to transform.

Take your green i-cord and begin threading it onto the wire from the base of the stem. Gently feed the wire through the center of the cord, working your way upward toward the bloom.

This step requires a bit of patience. Move slowly and carefully to avoid stretching the cord or snagging the yarn. If you feel resistance, try slightly twisting the cord as you push it along the wire—this can help it slide more smoothly.

As the cord moves up the stem, you’ll see the wire disappear inside it, leaving behind a soft, yarn-covered structure that already looks more finished and organic.

Join the Two I-CORD Colors Together

This is one of the most satisfying parts of the entire process, and it’s what gives your flower that polished, professional look.

Using the needle from your Caydo kit, thread one of your yarn ends and begin stitching around the circumference of the flower where the red and green cords meet.

Instead of simply tying the cords together, you’ll alternate your stitching between loops—passing through a green loop, then a red loop, and continuing this pattern all the way around the flower.

This technique blends the two sections together, creating a smooth transition between stem and bloom. It almost looks like the cords were made as one continuous piece.

Take your time with this step. Keeping your stitches even and consistent will make a big difference in the final appearance.

Secure with a French Knot

Once all the loops are connected, it’s time to secure your work.

Tie a small French knot to hold everything in place. This knot should be tight enough to stay secure, but not so tight that it distorts the shape of the cord.

After tying the knot, gently guide the yarn tail back into the i-cord, hiding it inside the tube. This creates a clean, finished look with no visible ends.

Repeat this process with both colors if needed, ensuring that all joins are secure and tidy.

STEP 5: Finish and Refine Your Flower

At this point, your flower is nearly complete.

Tie off any remaining yarn at the ends of the wire, near the caps, and trim any excess. If needed, tuck the ends into the cord for a cleaner finish.

Take a moment to gently adjust the shape of your flower. You can bend the wire slightly to open up the bloom or curve the stem for a more natural look.

This final shaping step is where your handmade art really shines—each flower can have its own subtle personality.

🌹 Why You’ll Love This Project

There’s something incredibly satisfying about combining techniques from different crafts. This project blends knitting, a little bit of crochet-style stitching, and sculptural wire work into one cohesive process.

The Big Happy Jig makes shaping your wire flowers effortless and consistent, which is especially helpful when making multiple pieces. Instead of guessing or reshaping each bloom, you’ll get the same clean, polished look every time.

Meanwhile, the Caydo i-cord knitting machine takes what would normally be a slow process and turns it into something fast and efficient. You can produce yards of smooth, even cord in just minutes, making it perfect for batch making.

The result? Soft, textured, beautiful flowers that feel high-end and artistic—but are totally doable, even if you’re just getting into yarn crafts.

🌼 Creative Ideas for Your Flowers

Now that you know how to make these beautiful i-cord flowers, the possibilities are endless.

Create a full bouquet for a lasting gift, or display a few stems in a vase for simple, cozy home decor. These also make wonderful embellishments for wrapped gifts or additions to mixed media art pieces.

If you love sharing your projects, these flowers are perfect for styling and posting on Instagram—they have that soft texture and color contrast that really pops in photos.

Helpful Tips When Making I-Cord Flowers

When working on this project, a few small adjustments can make a big difference.

Choose yarn that isn’t too bulky so it slides easily over the wire. If your cord feels tight, slow down and gently twist it as you thread. When shaping your wire, keep your lines smooth and avoid sharp bends that might be harder to cover.

Most importantly, don’t rush the joining step. Taking your time there will give your cord flower a seamless, high-quality finish.

That's it!

There’s something truly special about combining knitting, wire, and diy creativity into one project. These i-cord flowers are soft, sculptural, and full of personality—perfect for gifts, decor, or simply enjoying the process of making.

Once you’ve made your first flower, you’ll start imagining all the variations you can create—different colors, different shapes, even experimenting with other types of yarn.

So whether you’re crafting on a quiet afternoon or building up inventory for your next creative idea, this project is a beautiful way to explore new techniques and create something lasting.

Happy crafting, friend 💕

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How to Use Caydo I-Cord Maker Knitting Machine Review

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How to Make Wire Word Art (Knit Wrapped Words DIY)

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How to Use the I-Cord Knitter (Knitting Cord Tool)

Learn how to use the I-Cord Knitter machine for making knitted cords for all kinds of projects.

The I-Cord Knitter transforms one string of yarn into a weaved tube, also known as French Knitter, or spool knitting.

Make the knit tube as long as desired for whatever project you are making it for...check out my project here: How to Make Wire Word Art (Knit Wrapped Words DIY)

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How to Use Caydo I-Cord Maker Knitting Machine Review

2026-03-20T06:00:00.182-04:00

How to Use Caydo I-Cord Maker Knitting Machine Review

Learn how to use the Caydo Electric i-cord Knitting Machine for beautiful, consistent and even i-cord!

If you’ve ever loved the look of i-cord but not the process of making it by hand… this is going to feel like a total game-changer. (affiliate links)

I recently got the Caydo Electric i-cord Knitting Machine, and honestly? It’s one of those tools that makes you wonder why you didn’t upgrade sooner. Whether you’re into cord making, crochet, or creative home decor, this little machine turns a slow, repetitive task into something fast, smooth, and actually fun.

Let’s dive into a full cord knitting machines review, plus a simple “start knitting” tutorial so you can get your first cord going right away.

Let's get started!

First Impressions & Review

The Caydo Electric i-cord Knitting Machine is compact, lightweight, and surprisingly sturdy thanks to its durable ABS construction.

It feels like a better tool right out of the box—especially compared to traditional spool knitting or French knitting tools.

✨What to do with I-cord?

Use your cords for:

Crocheting chunky designs
Wrapping wire for sculptural art
Making home decor accents
Creating trims, ties, and embellishments

Yarn Compatibility & Best Results

For the best results, stick with:

Light worsted yarn
Standard craft yarn
Similar medium-weight yarn weights

These produce the most stable i-cords with a cleaner finish.

⚠️ Tip: Avoid jumbo yarn—it’s usually too thick for smooth operation and can disrupt the machine’s rhythm.

Getting Started: How to Use the Caydo I-Cord Machine

Caydo Electric i-cord Knitting Machine

Ready to make your first cord? Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Set Up the Machine

Place your machine on a flat surface.

If this is the first time using it, check the manual to make sure you are setting it up correctly.

You'll need to attach the long arm to the front of the machine.

Step 2: Thread Your Yarn

Use standard craft yarn or light worsted yarn.

Carefully guide the yarn through the threading path as shown in the instructions.

The yarn slips under the extended arm knob, there's a little groove for it to sit in without coming off during production.

Then thread the yarn from the outside of the clear needle cover hole to the inside.

👉 Take your time here—proper threading is key to consistent tension and uniform cords.

Step 3: Secure the Yarn Tail

Now thread the yarn onto the crochet hook/needle that is included in this kit.

Push the thread/needle eye through the center of the machine until it comes out the back.

Pull the thread out of the needle and remove the crochet hook/needle out the way you pushed it in.

Then lift up the gear lever and place the yarn between the gears, holding it tightly in place.

This is the system that will create the perfect amount of tension for a tight i-cord.

Not yet, but once we get the machine going, you'll hold onto this thread and pull with even tension until the i-cord has been created and reaches past the gears.

Step 4: Loop the Yarn on Hooks

Now grab that crochet hook and begin by opening up all the hooks (4).

Then thread the yarn under the loops of the first and third hook, skipping the other 2.

It doesn't not matter which hooks you start with, just start with one, skip the next, then hook onto the the next one...leave the last.

Hooked onto the first loop, skip the next one.

Then loop the yarn on the third hook, then it is ready to begin.

Step 5: Power On & Start Knitting

Now hold onto the yarn coming out of the back of the machine.

Set the dial to 1, then turn on the machine and let the powerful motor do the work.

You’ll see your first cord begin forming almost immediately, keep holding onto the yarn until the i-cord comes out the back and is between those gears from earlier.

Then you can let go and let the machine do all the heavy lifting.

What I Love Most about the Caydo I-Cord Electric Knitting Machine:

✨ Ease of Use

This is huge. Setup is simple, and the machine is intuitive enough for DIY lovers of all ages. It’s truly a simple upgrade from manual cord makers.

✨ Consistent Results

The machine produces uniform cords with consistent tension, which means you get smoother stitches and a much more professional look. No more uneven loops or hand strain ruining your flow.

✨ No Hand Fatigue

If you’ve ever made i-cord manually, you know the struggle. This eliminates hand fatigue completely—one of the best alternative solutions for repetitive crafting.

✨ Powerful Motor + Continuous Output

The powerful motor allows for continuous output, so you can create longer cords for bigger projects without stopping every few minutes.

Step 6: Let It Run

Enjoy the continuous output as your cord grows longer and longer.

This is where the magic happens!

Stay nearby while the machine is working to make sure it doesn't run into problems.

Step 7: Finish Off

Once you’ve reached your desired length, cut the yarn and let the machine suck it in to make the most i-cord possible.

It will still have 4 loops and a dangling yarn tail.

Use the included needle (not the crochet hook) to thread on the tail, then thread through each of the 4 loops going around the circle in order, pull tight and remove the needle.

So. Easy.

Tips for I-cord Success

Caydo Electric i-cord Knitting Machine

Practice with shorter cords first
Keep yarn tension steady for smoother stitches
Clean the machine occasionally for regular use
Experiment with colors and textures for unique results
Use cords immediately in projects or store them neatly to avoid tangling

That's it!

The Caydo Electric i-cord Knitting Machine takes a classic technique—known by many common names like French knitting or spool knitting—and turns it into a fast, modern crafting experience.

It’s efficient, fun, and incredibly satisfying to use. Whether you’re making delicate trims or prepping materials for bigger projects, this tool delivers uniform cords, stable i-cords, and a whole lot of creative potential.

If you love the joy of crafting but want something easier on your hands and faster overall, this is absolutely worth it.

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How to Use We R Makers Big Happy Jig Wire Board DIY

I found the perfect tool for bending and shaping metal that makes it simple, doable and fun!

The Big Happy Jig tool from We R Makers takes all the guesswork out of shaping wire.

With just a few pegs and a sturdy base, you can wrap wire into beautiful shapes for jewelry, cards, wall art, and even larger home decor projects.

How to Make Wire Word Art (Knit Wrapped Words DIY)

Make a wire word art wreath with the I-cord Knitter for the perfect home decor.

The I-Cord Knitter transforms a piece of yarn into a knit tube, the perfect casing for wire words to give it a unique and cozy touch.

Make a nursery sign with wire names, a favorite motto, longer words, a wreath or home decor for the perfect handmade decoration or homemade gift.

How to Use the I-Cord Knitter (Knitting Cord Tool)

Learn how to use the I-Cord Knitter machine for making knitted cords for all kinds of projects.

The I-Cord Knitter transforms one string of yarn into a weaved tube, also known as French Knitter, or spool knitting.

Make the knit tube as long as desired for whatever project you are making it for...check out my project here: How to Make Wire Word Art (Knit Wrapped Words DIY)

These yarn woven tubes can be used for all kinds of fiber art; wire word art, macrame, knitting projects or crochet projects and more.

Follow me on Instagram and Tiktok - Make craft tutorials daily!

How to Make Miniature Books with Mini Book Pages DIY

2026-03-18T06:00:00.002-04:00

How to Make Miniature Books with Mini Book Pages DIY

Learn how to make miniature books with real pages in this simple tutorial.

Just a few supplies are needed to make 1:12 scale dollhouse books; great for a mini book shelf, a book tracker, jewelry and more!

Turn your favorite reads into the cutest tiny mini books, great for the most adorable hand-made gifts!

I love these little miniature Golden Books!

I loved The Little Red Caboose when I was little, so it was fun to recreate this in 1:12 dollhouse scale miniature.

Tiny books are just the cutest!

BOOK COVERS

You'll need covers of each book you will make, if you don't have photoshop or software to scale them down, search for mini book covers and the title you are looking for.

I found all of my book covers online, the easiest way is to find miniature book covers, the Harry Potter book series is easy to find as tiny book covers.

They are super easy to find, with the front cover and the back covers plus the spine included.

This makes tiny book making super easy--I've got brief descriptions of each step as well as a quick video!

SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR MINIATURE BOOKS WITH REAL PAGES:

affiliate links

Book Cover Photos
Photo Paper
Printer (any color inkjet)
Mod Podge (or a Glue Stick)
Paintbrush
Old Book (with thick margins)
Cutting Mat
Hobby Craft Knife
Metal Ruler (optional)
Paper Cutter
Razor Knife or Serrated Kitchen Knife
Detail Scissors

I found this book at the thrift store. (don't worry, I saved the text pages for another craft)

Find a glue bound book with wide margins, and you'll be able to make real page books, with blank paper as the inner pages. (If it has some text, that still works too!)

Step 1: Book Covers

Begin by finding the book covers you desire.

Then print the off on photo paper, I found that my printer made a much more detailed print with the semi-gloss photo paper rather than plain paper or even card stock.

Then use a paper cutter or scissors to carefully cut all the tiny cover pictures.

I used detail scissors to cut them out as perfectly as I could.

MINIATURE HARRY POTTER SERIES BOOKS

Let's get started making books from these little Harry Potter book covers.

I've got all 7 covers cut out, and look at them carefully, they have the front cover on the back cover--flipped upside down.

This way no matter which way the book is turned, it will be right side up.

First fold along the edges of the book so it has a front cover, spine and back cover, it just needs 2 folds, sometimes a metal ruler helps, but I just did it with my fingers.

My thrifted book has big, wide margins, so the inside pages of our mini books are completely blank pages.

This isn't critical, but it's a fun feature of these little books, or you could make little useable journals that someone could write or draw a little bit in the tiny page of your mini book.

Step 2: Book Pages

Measure the spine of the book you are making first, typically I found a few books the same thickness, so it worked really well.

Remove the cover of your thrifted book and pull out a section big enough for your miniature book spine.

Use a razor knife, serrated kitchen knife or even a hacksaw blade to cut the glue edge of the book spine to the desired thickness.

Step 3: Mod Podge

Now get the Mod Podge ready and a paintbrush, just get a little Mod Podge on your brush so you don't have a lot of excess glue.

Paint Mod Podge on the inside of the front cover, down the inside of the spine, and the inside of the back cover of the book.

Then wrap the book around the spine of the thrifted book spine.

Let the book dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Continue filling the spine of the book with all the miniature book covers that fit the width of the spine.

(You can also cut a larger section of your book and start gluing wider books to the spine of that section.)

Make sure you don't get Mod Podge on your fingers, having grubby hands can ruin the photo paper...but it's the right paper for the effect.

Continue filling the spine of the book with a couple of mini-books or more.

When you make a mini diy book, you always want to make more...that's the favourite part!

See how I have a bunch of mini books lined up on the spine!?

You can set a heavy book on top of them while they dry to keep the glue down firmly.

Step 4: Cutting Book Pages

After the glue dries, the next step is to cut around the book covers carefully with a hobby knife on top of the cutting mat.

You can use a metal ruler to make sure your cuts are straight, or just gently cut along side the photo paper cover and just cut a piece of paper or 2 at a time.

Once you've cut around all 3 edges of your book cover, it's done!

Your little book is ready to adorn a dollhouse, turn into earrings, add to a jar or ornament for a book reading tracker.

Now make a bunch more--get ready for an overload of books!

My page edges are a little rough on this mini book...I don't need nice things! Lol

Take your time cutting the papers, use a ruler or a guide for much cleaner edges than me.

It's easy to trim up the edges after they are cut by standing the book up and cutting down the book block.

The best kind of craft is one that doesn't take up so much space on the always-too-cluttered table and these mini books are just the perfect thing!

MINIATURE CHILDREN BOOKS

I used the same process for these little golden books.

They only needed a couple of papers inside them, since they just have one center fold.

After cutting the children's book cover papers, fold them in half.

I use the Matte Mod Podge.

Just paint the Mod Podge on the inside of the children's book covers.

Place them over a thin section of paper...I think they only have 4 papers inside each one.

Use the hobby knife to cut them out after the glue dries.

These books are much easier to cut out because of the few pages.

Super simple, one smooth cut around the three edges is all it takes.

I ended up using all the spine area of my thrifted book to make all these little miniature books.

Now you can just admire these teensy little finished books!

Here's an idea- give a collection of children's books to a child with a little dollhouse!

If you have the full children's books, read one at the end of every day and let your child read the little one to their doll.

Here's the Harry Potter series collection of mini books!

They are so much fun!

Here's the full set between my fingers.

I love their tiny size.

I built a small bookshelf to house all my miniature books.

Maybe you know a different way to make miniature books, but this was the easiest way I've ever found to make darling little books that look real with real pages.

You can make a miniature version of all the books you read last year to keep as a book reading tracker.

You can put these inside a clear fillable ornament, in a little jar or some other fun way to display them.

Which of these fun little books is your favorite!?

I can imagine a little miniature display of these spooky books, potions and jars of frogs!

I made these little Dr. Seuss books too, they have a cover that wraps around the front pages.

They didn't work out quite as well as I was hoping, I think the photo paper is too thick.

They are still cute though!

That's it!

Turn all your favorite books into miniature books with real book pages!

This fun and simple DIY is great for a reading book tracker, 1:12 scale dollhouse bookshelf or just for fun.

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How to Make Mini Charcuterie Dollhouse Dessert Board

Learn how to make the most adorable miniature charcuterie dessert boards.

These cute mini's are perfect for a dollhouse at 1:12 scale.

They also make the most darling earrings, magnets, ornaments or just shelf decor.

How to Make a Tear-off Notepad with Mod Podge DIY

Make your own tear off notepads to keep lists, memos and to-do's organized using paper, Mod Podge, clamps or binder clips and scrap cardboard!

I always have several notepads on my desk for checklists and notes. I have the worst memory these days, so notepads are crucial.

Yes, sometimes I use my phone, but I have a very visual memory and can remember things better if I physically write it down.

What about you? Do you use tear-off notepads?

Let's get crafting and make notepads!

How to Laser Engrave Journals DIY with xTool S1!

Learn how easy it is to make a laser engraved journal or notebook with xTool laser cutting machine, use different patterns or make a bunch the same.

Every time I do a laser cutting project it becomes my absolute favorite--and this is no exception, I totally love these faux leather engraved journals!

Engraving on journals is so fast, just minutes, and makes a gorgeous handmade gift, sweet gratitude journal, branded business merchandise or custom swag.

Cereal Box Refillable Journals Upcycled Craft DIY!

Make a cereal box refillable journal for the perfect Earth Day crafting!

These cute notebooks are perfect and can be refilled with any kind of paper you like and fit full-size book pages folded in half.

Turn a cereal box or other old packaging into a refillable notebook for sketching, drawing and note taking.

Refillable Leather Journal DIY

Make a chic refillable leather journal out of Cricut Leather and a few other supplies.

This shimmery metallic leather journal has paper folded in half inside, held tightly by elastic, making it refillable as needed.

You can also fill your journal with any type of paper, not just plain pages!

How to Use We R Makers Big Happy Jig Wire Board DIY

2026-03-16T06:00:00.248-04:00

How to Use We R Makers Big Happy Jig Wire Board DIY

I found the perfect tool for bending and shaping metal that makes it simple, doable and fun!

The Big Happy Jig tool from We R Makers takes all the guesswork out of shaping wire.

With just a few pegs and a sturdy base, you can wrap wire into beautiful shapes for jewelry, cards, wall art, and even larger home decor projects.

USING THE HAPPY JIG!

I recently spent an afternoon playing with the We R Memory Keepers, now We R Makers, Big Happy Jig, and it quickly became one of my favorite craft tools.

I started by following a couple of the included design templates in the manual, and within minutes I had made the cutest little wire shapes!

After making a flamingo and a monstera leaf, I felt confident enough to design my own project—a long-stem wire rose.

If you’ve never tried wire shaping before, this tutorial will walk you through everything you need to know—from setting up the jig to creating your own custom wire designs!

Let's get started!

What Is the Big Happy Jig?

The Big Happy Jig tool is a wire-shaping board designed to help you create consistent, professional looking wire designs.

The base has evenly spaced holes where you can insert metal pegs.

By placing the pegs in different configurations, you can wrap wire around them to form shapes and patterns.

And for those wondering, yes, the Big Happy Jig works with i-cord wire crafts too!

Think of the Big Happy Jig tool as a tiny blueprint system for bending wire.

Instead of trying to freehand curves and loops, the jig guides the wire exactly where it needs to go. The result is smooth curves, even shapes, and much less frustration.

The Big Happy Jig tool comes with:

A sturdy base board
Multiple plastic pegs
2 sizes of peg caps for bigger curves
An instruction manual with beginner design templates
Flush cut wire cutters
Roll of wire

Why the Big Happy Jig Is Great for Beginners

Wire art can seem tricky at first because metal wire doesn’t always want to cooperate. The Big Happy Jig tool removes that challenge.

Here’s why it’s beginner-friendly:

• The peg system keeps your curves consistent

• The base keeps your project stable while working

• Templates help you learn basic shapes first

• You can easily adjust or redesign layouts

• It works with many types of wire

Even if you’ve never worked with wire before, you can start making beautiful shapes in minutes.

Supplies You’ll Need to make wire art with the Big Happy Jig:

affiliate links included

We R Makers Big Happy Jig tool (Get it now while it's 70%+ off)
Plastic pegs and peg caps (included with the Big Happy Jig)
2mm-3mm Craft wire (gold, silver, or coloured wire--roll included in kit)
Wire cutters (included)
Needle nose pliers (optional but helpful)
Instruction manual with design templates (included)
Additional 3mm Aluminum wire

For my projects I used yards of gold wire, which gave the finished designs a bright metallic shine. Gold wire looks especially pretty when used for decorative shapes like leaves, flowers, and animals.

You can also experiment with:

Silver wire
Copper wire
Bright neon wire
Pastel colored craft wire
Covering wire with felt, yarn i-cord or other materials

Using different colors is a fun way to match projects to party themes, seasonal decor, or handmade gifts.

Step 1: Choose a Design

When you’re just starting out, the easiest place to begin is with the included design templates from the instruction manual.

These templates show you exactly where to place the pegs on the board. Once the pegs are in place, the wire wraps around them to form the shape.

The two designs I tried first were:

• A flamingo

• A monstera leaf

Both looked a little complicated at first glance, but they were surprisingly easy to make with the jig.

Step 2: Set Up the Pegs

To begin your project, insert the metal pegs into the holes on the jig according to the template pattern.

Each peg creates a turning point for the wire.

Make sure the pegs are firmly seated so they don’t wiggle while you wrap the wire. Once your pegs are placed, add the peg caps to hold everything securely.

The caps help prevent the wire from slipping off the pegs while you shape it.

Step 3: Start Wrapping the Wire

Unravel a length of wire, but keep it on the roll...as you don't know exactly how much you’ll need and we want to minimize waste.

Place one end of the wire against the starting peg, the peg with the slit groove through it...it will hold the wire in place while working.

Now begin wrapping the wire around the pegs following the template path.

As you guide the wire around each peg, press it gently against the jig base so it forms smooth curves.
The jig does most of the work for you!

Step 4: Continue Shaping the Design

Work your way through the pattern one peg at a time.

You’ll notice how the wire naturally forms the curves of the design as it wraps around each peg.

If you make a small mistake, don’t worry. Wire is fairly forgiving and can usually be adjusted with your fingers or needle nose pliers.

Take your time and enjoy the process.

Within just a few minutes, you’ll see your design taking shape.

Step 5: Remove the Finished Shape

Once the wire has been wrapped around all the pegs in the template, gently lift the finished shape off the jig.

Sometimes the wire will spring slightly as it comes off the pegs. If that happens, just reshape the curves with your fingers.

Use wire flush cutters to trim the ends neatly.

For a different look, tuck the ends behind the design or curl them into tiny loops.

Project 1: Flamingo Wire Art

The flamingo design was my first test project, and it turned out absolutely adorable.

The shape includes:

A curved neck
Rounded body
Long legs

The jig makes these curves easy to create, even if you’ve never shaped wire before.

I used gold wire for this project to give the flamingo a bright, fun look.

It would be perfect for:

Tropical themed crafts
Summer decorations
A colorful party banner
Handmade greeting cards

Project 2: Monstera Leaf

Next I tried the monstera leaf template.

This design includes several small interior loops to mimic the natural holes in monstera leaves.

It looks intricate but is surprisingly quick to make with the jig.

I used yards of gold wire for this one, which gave it a modern, minimalist style.

This leaf design would be beautiful for:

Plant themed crafts
Botanical wall art
Scrapbook embellishments
Home decor accents

Tips for Working With Craft Wire

If you’re new to wire art, these tips will help make your projects easier.

Choose softer wire, the wire included with the Big Happy Jig is wonderfully soft to bend and yet holds its shape.

Craft wire that is too thick can be difficult to bend. Medium or soft wire works best with the jig.

Work slowly.
Take your time guiding the wire around each peg.

Use pliers for tight bends.
Needle nose pliers can help shape sharper angles.

Practice with scrap wire first.
This helps you get comfortable with the tool before starting a final design.

Why I Love the Big Happy Jig

After trying several wire designs, I can honestly say the Big Happy Jig tool is a fantastic addition to any craft room.

What I love most:

Easy setup
Beginner friendly templates
Endless design possibilities
Durable construction
Perfect for creative experimentation

Whether you’re making jewelry, decorations, or modern art pieces, it really is the perfect tool for shaping wire.

Where to Find the Big Happy Jig

The We R Memory Keepers Big Happy Jig is widely available at craft stores and online retailers.

You can often find good deals, bundle kits, and even free shipping depending on the shop.

BUY IT HERE WHILE IT'S NEARLY 75% OFF--SUCH A GREAT PRICE!

The Big Happy Jig tool is easy to use and put the pegs much closer together for smaller wire creations, perfect for handmade cards or scrapbook pages.

I'll be showing some fun things to do with wire sculptures in the future, for now, get the Big Happy Jig tool while it's on sale.

You do not want to miss this.

Now you can confidently design your own projects or keep working from the sample templates!

Designing Your Own Wire Art

After making two template projects, I felt confident enough to try designing my own shape.

This is where the Big Happy Jig tool really shines.

Because the pegs can be moved anywhere on the board, you can experiment with endless shapes.

I decided to create a long-stem rose.

Project 3: Long Stem Wire Rose

To create the rose, I placed the pegs in a loose spiral pattern for the flower.

Then I added a few pegs below it to guide the stem and the leaves.

Here’s the basic process I used:

Wrap the wire around the spiral pegs to create the rose bloom.
Guide the wire downward between two pegs to form the stem.
Add a few curved loops on each side for leaves.
Finish with a straight wire stem.
The final result looked elegant and delicate.

It reminded me of a minimalist line drawing made entirely from wire.

Creative Ways to Use Wire Art

Once you start making wire shapes, you’ll quickly find lots of ways to use them.
Here are some ideas:

Home Decor

Mount wire art onto a wood base for a fun entryway tabletop piece.

Make a bouquet of wire flowers and leaves for a vase display.

Wall Art

Frame your wire designs in shadow boxes or attach them to wooden boards for modern wall decor.

These make beautiful home decor projects.

Cake Toppers

Attach small wire shapes to skewers and use them as cake toppers for birthdays or weddings.

Party Decorations

Bright neon wire shapes make amazing decorations for a colorful party.

Handmade Cards

Glue mini wire designs to greeting cards, scrapbook layouts or other paper crafts for a dimensional effect.

Try making:

Names
Hearts
Stars
Fun words like “Celebrate” or “Love”
Jewelry
Smaller wire shapes can be turned into earrings, necklaces, or charms.

That's it!

If you’ve been curious about wire art, the We R Makers Big Happy Jig tool is an amazing way to dive in.

It takes what could be a tricky technique and turns it into a relaxing, creative craft. The included design templates make it easy to learn the basics, and once you get comfortable, designing your own shapes becomes incredibly fun.

From flamingos and monstera leaves to custom flowers and lettering, the possibilities are endless.
And before you know it, you’ll be reaching for colored wire, metallic wire, and even neon wire to experiment with new styles and creative home decor projects.

If you try this craft, I’d love to hear what designs you create!

Happy crafting!

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Check out these other posts on Wire Art too!

How to Make Wire Word Art (Knit Wrapped Words DIY)

Make a wire word art wreath with the I-cord Knitter for the perfect home decor.

The I-Cord Knitter transforms a piece of yarn into a knit tube, the perfect casing for wire words to give it a unique and cozy touch.

Make a nursery sign with wire names, a favorite motto, longer words, a wreath or home decor for the perfect handmade decoration or homemade gift.

How to Make a Wire Crown (DIY Elven Tiara Tutorial)

Learn how to make a wire wrapped crown or Elven tiara, perfect for dressing up, costumes, cosplay or every day wear.

These gorgeous wire crowns are my favorite accessory!

Let me walk you through one crown style and then you can get creative and make all the crowns your heart desires.

FYI: I am not a model, just an enthusiastic crafter that no longer has kids to force to model.

How to Make Iridescent Window Clings DIY with Cricut

2026-03-13T06:00:00.001-04:00

How to Make Iridescent Window Clings DIY with Cricut

Learn how to make iridescent window clings with Cricut for the perfect rainbow makers on a sunny day.

Make your own DIY window clings with 2 supplies and a Cricut cutting machine.

The perfect home decor for a clean window--let's get started!

RAINBOW PRISMS OF LIGHT

I love how these turned out, they are so bright and fun in the window and scatter rainbow light all over the sink, dishes and walls!

I picked line art flowers, but you can design your own, use text or pick your favorite design for this craft.

Supplies Needed for Iridescent Window Clings:

affiliate links

Permanent Glossy Black Adhesive Vinyl
Iridescent Window Privacy Cling Film
Cricut Machine
Transfer Paper
Cricut Tools (Weeding Hook, Scraper)
Spray Bottle with Water

Step 1: Design

Begin by selecting a design you like in Cricut Design Space.

I just typed in flower and found these line art flowers right at the top of the list.

Add them to your canvas.

Select the image and click the "offset" button.

Drag the slider up or down to create the perfect offset, so it creates an outline of the image.

Change the color of the line art to black and the offset to a different color so you can cut them out on 2 separate mats.

Step 2: Cut Design

Now place the black adhesive vinyl on the mat, with the adhesive side down...the colored side up.

Then cut out the line art designs.

After the Cricut cuts through the adhesive vinyl, it's time to cut out the offset images from the iridescent window cling film.

The film has a slight texture on the top, like stained glass-ish.

The backside is smooth, that's the side that will adhere to the window or glass...and it also has a layer of protective film on it.

Place the smooth film side on the mat and cut on the textured side.

Set the Cricut material to "window cling" and "more depth".

I did have to cut the image twice, so once it finishes, don't remove the mat, just click the cut button one more time.

**NOTE: Cut the Window Cling out TWICE**

Step 3: Weed

Now cut the images apart and weed the excess vinyl.

Weed all the excess vinyl form the image so it's just the line art on the transfer sheet.

Step 4: Transfer Tape

Now place some transfer tape over the adhesive vinyl, smooth with a scraper tool.

If you don't have a scraper tool, you can use a credit card type card to smooth it out.

Peel the paper backing off the back of the vinyl.

Step 5: Adhere to Cling

Now place the adhesive vinyl on the coordinating cling cut out.

The offset makes this a little forgiving, just place the vinyl on top and smooth it out with a scraper, carefully over the textured surface.

Then peel off the transfer tape by rolling it back over itself.

Step 6: Window Cling Time

Now peel the window cling off the backing and it's ready to add to a sunny window!

They look great and make a great decal for a window of car or your home.

This is such a fun way to make a stained glass window effect, no Mod Podge, puffy paint or acrylic paint needed!

Now clean your window and get a spray bottle of water...or just get your cling wet in the sink.

The smooth side of the window cling will adhere easier to a window with a little water.

Just give it a spritz and stick it on the window--or use a small bowl of water and sprinkle a bit on the back of the cling.

They are the perfect way to brighten up your window, especially in the Winter or early Spring when there's no plants or flowers growing.

They do a great job covering up my compost area outside.

These easy window clings are a fun activity and make a great gift too!

I am going to make a bunch for neighbor gifts for Spring!

Have you made window clings with Iridescent Window Privacy Cling Film on your Cricut yet?

I love how they sparkle and add so much fun to my kitchen.

Look at the rainbow sparkles in my sink--I had to clean it in the first place!

I love the cheeriness these suncatchers add to my windows.

They are easy to make, take less than 10 minutes and make me smile every day!

That's it!

Making iridescent window cling suncatchers is an easy DIY using Cricut.

Make gorgeous rainbow makers in just a few minutes with colored vinyl and iridescent window film.

Pick up the supplies for these fun projects and make a bunch today!

Iridescent Window Privacy Cling Film

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CHECK OUT THESE OTHER FUN POSTS TOO!

How to Use Plaid Folkart Murano Glass Paint DIY

Learn how to use Plaid Folkart Murano Glass Paint on a few glass projects.

It's a fun way to add the look of hand-blown glass to glass objects that need some excitment.

Upcycle various glass pieces with different glass effects from Plaid's line of Murano Glass Paint.

Cherry Decor DIY: How to Make Disco Ball Cherries

Learn how to make the cutest disco ball cherries to brighten up your shelf, desk or table.

This cute cherry decor DIY is chic and groovy all in one, you can make different shapes too!

Disco balls and cherries are all the rage, so they are a match made in heaven!

How to Make Stained Glass with Gallery Glass Paint

Learn how to make the perfect faux stained glass using Plaid's Gallery Glass and Gallery Glass Leading Sheets.

It's easy to create a suncatcher, glass frame or even add special elements to windows in your home.

Stained glass suncatchers are beautiful, popular, and a fun craft and Gallery Glass is a great alternative to the huge investment and skill it takes to cut and solder glass.

DIY: Doctor Who Gallery Glass Window Clings!

Learn how to make gel window clings with gallery glass paint, wax paper or parchment paper and a little time.

Make adorable geeky fandom window gel clings or make your own window clings of your favorite icons.

Great craft for older kids too!

How to Make Tulip Beaded Earrings DIY (Easy Jewelry)

2026-03-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

How to Make Tulip Beaded Earrings DIY (Easy Jewelry)

Learn how to make simple tulip beaded earrings.

These darling little dangles are a great earring tutorial for beginners and experts alike.

Just a few supplies needed and you can make beaded flower earrings for all your family and friends, great handmade gifts or perfect for a cash making side hustle.

Let's get started!

Making simple beaded earrings with glass beads is the perfect Summer evening craft.

These earrings take just a couple minutes each and make great handmade gifts, so you'll be ahead for the holidays!

SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR TULIP BEADED EARRINGS:

affiliate links

Glass Tulip Beads (contains flowers and leaves)
Shell Rose Beads (optional)
Earring Hooks
Head Pins
Jewelry Pliers
One Step Looping Pliers (optional, but super nice)
Earring packaging (optional)

STEP 1: LEAF BASE

Begin by holding a flat head pin in your hand, and slide a glass bead leaf on the end of the pin.

The leaf should stay on the pin without slipping off the end.

This creates the simplicity of the earrings.

STEP 2: TULIP BEAD

Now slide a tulip bead on the jewelry pin and it will fit into the leaf bead beautifully.

STEP 3: LOOP THE PIN

Now use the looping pliers to cut and simultaneously make the perfect sized loop at the end of the wire.

You can clip the wire and loop over round pliers if you don't have the looping pliers, but they are pretty great.

STEP 4: EARRING HOOK

Before closing up the loop completely, loop an earring hook through the loop and close it up tightly.

Repeat!

Mix and match the bead and leaf colors to make a bunch of different earrings.

Use stud back earrings or hooks, they both look adorable and you can pick the ones you like best to wear.

The shell rose beads aren't necessary, but they are so cute with the little leaves too, I like the variety!

Packaging can make a difference for gift giving, here's some earring packages that I like with quick delivery time.

Which tulip earring is your favorite?

I love the olive green leaves with the light pink flower!

This is a great beginner jewelry craft for teens and tweens.

It's great for learning how to use wire pliers and make a small loop with not a lot of pressure.

These cute flower beads are easy to string on stretchy cord for bracelets too!

That's it!

Learn to make Tulip Beaded earrings in a variety of color combinations with just a few supplies and very little time needed.

This fun beading craft is perfect for beginners because there is only one tricky step and it's easily learned.

Make a garden of beautiful earrings today!

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Here's some other beginner friendly crafts to check out:

How to Make Mosaic Picture Frame (Easy DIY Craft)

Learn how to make a glass tile mosaic picture frame!

This fun project is a fun way to upcycle an old wood frame and even broken glass pieces, it could also be adapted to use things found on a nature walk, like smooth rocks, shells and twigs.

Make a mosaic glass frame in an afternoon with this simple tutorial, no skill level required for this fun and creative craft.

How to Make Boondoggle Lanyard Keychains DIY Tutorial!

Boondoggle lanyards are synonymous with Summer!

The plastic cord, the bright colors, the possibilities for bracelets boondoggle keychains, everyone in their teen years needs to make a bunch of these at Summer camp--I think it's one of the top life skills!

Learn how to make your own boondoggle keychains using plastic lacing cord for the perfect Summer craft!

How to Host a Tie Dye Shirt Party (Supplies & Ideas)

Tie Dye is the first signs of Summertime and a tie-dye party is the best way to celebrate!

The bright colors and hippy look are perfect for Summer barbecue's, parades, Summer camp and Family reunions.

Learn everything you need to know about tie dying shirts so you are ready to host a fabulous tie dye event!

How to Paint Pour on Rocks!

Painting rocks is so much fun--they are the perfect canvas for all kinds of art.

Paint pouring on rocks is super duper fun--it's easy and requires no artistic skill level or age range--just pick your favorite colors.

Learn how easy it is to paint pour on rocks and do it as a last Summer craft with the kids, with friends for a crafter-noon or as a date night craft.

How to Make Disco Ball Butterfly (Mirror Sticker DIY)

Learn how to make a disco ball butterfly in no time at all, using supplies from Dollar Tree!

Get a galvanized butterfly (or any of the other options) and some sticker backed mirror tiles and make this little disco ball butterfly the perfect addition to your home decor.

It's so easy to disco-ify anything, let's get started, for best results don't store in the direct sun.

Gold Leaf Necklaces with Resin Jewelry Clay

These gorgeous necklaces are made using a resin-based jewelry clay.

Make a stunning necklace using Jewelry Clay with gold and silver leafing.

This 2 part epoxy clay is a little sticky, so better away from little hands, but this easy project is great for girl scouts and teenagers.

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and tiktok - make craft tutorials daily!

How to Make Custom Shrink Plastic Enamel Lapel Pins

2026-03-09T06:00:00.000-04:00

How to Make Custom Shrink Plastic Enamel Lapel Pins

Learn how to make your own enamel pins with this fun faux shrink plastic enamel pin technique!

Make a collection of full color pin badges in various shapes.

I'll show you how to make them every step of the way!

What are Enamel Pins?

Enamel pins are small, decorative pins typically made from metal and enamel.

They come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, often featuring colorful enamel coatings that are baked onto the metal surface.

These pins can depict anything from pop culture references to original artwork, and they're often collected and traded by geeked-out enthusiasts.

Enamel pins are commonly worn on clothing, such as jackets, hats, or bags, using a butterfly clutch or rubber backing to secure them in place.

They've gained popularity as a form of personal expression and as collectible items due to their affordability, versatility, and ability to showcase unique designs.

Hard enamel pins have always been my favorite collectable--with their shiny finish.

Let me show you how to create your own custom lapel pins using your favorite images or even a hand drawing.

These fun pins make a great handmade gift--or a side hustle or small businesses if you are looking to make a little extra on the side.

Have a fun pin idea?

The perfect pin is just a few supplies away.

These images are some of my favorites, although copyrighted, images; so I would not sell them.

This technique is a great option for turning your own art into enamel pins without the minimum order quantity or the additional charge of enamel pin makers.

This faux enamel pin post is a great choice for kids art too!

Supplies for Enamel Lapel Pins:

Step 1: Print on Shrink Plastic

Begin by designing your custom art or images on a full sheet.

The images should be around 2-3 inches, as they will shrink down to about 1/3 of their size for final pin size.

There's a rougher side of the shrink plastic and that is the side you print on.

The shrink plastic has some texture and the ink can bleed a little bit, but the shrink plastic listed is what I use and it works really well.

Draw your own pin design art work directly on the shrink plastic with permanent markers too!

Step 2: Cut out Images

Once the image is printed out, cut out all the shapes.

I'm guessing if you are going to make a bunch of enamel pins, you could upload the images into Cricut as a print and cut, then arrange them in Cricut Design Space.

The print out would be printed with registration marks, so you could put it on the Cricut mat and have the Cricut cut out each shape effortlessly.

Or get a pair of detail scissors and cut the shapes out.

Step 3: Shrinky Dink Time

When I did shrinky dinks as a kid, we baked them in the oven, and you can totally do that.

However if you have a heat pen, it's an easy starting point to do right on your desk--on a heat resistant surface.

Place the shrink plastic image in the center of the painters tape roll, this just helps keep it from blowing away.

Aim the heat pen at the shrink plastic and watch it curl up.

Be cautious of the high temperature, keep moving the heat pen around so one place does not get too hot.

Once it is evenly shrunk down, place a shot glass on top of the shrink plastic while it's still warm to form the flat enamel pin.

The default thickness becomes about 9 times thicker and a very sturdy final product.

It just takes a few minutes to cool down to touch it.

Repeat the shrinking process for each of the shrink plastic images.

The plastic shrinks down to a thick finish, but it's not done yet.

**Did you do shrinky dinks as a kid? I loved them. I wished I could do them every day...lol, now I can!

Step 4: UV Resin

Now let's add the super shiny finish that gives custom pins their distinct look.

Store bought enamel pins are metal with a layer of enamel paint.

Squeeze some UV resin right on top of the shrink plastic.

Use a craft stick to move the resin around to the edges carefully.

Place the resin pin under the UV light and let it run.

It takes just a minute and a half of UV light production time to get a hard resin finish on my enamel pins.

Once removed from the UV lamp, the pin is shiny with a ridged finish.

Because enamel pins are typically metal, next I use a gold marker pen to color on the edges of the shrink plastic for a metallic finish.

I used gold but you can use silver for a stunning silver finish too.

Step 5: Pin Backs

The final step is to turn all the shrink plastic face down and use the E6000 glue to adhere a pin back to the backside.

I place the pin back on the upper half of the shrink plastic so they will hang down instead of spinning around.

Let the pinbacks dry for at least 4 hours if you need them in a timely manner...but I leave them overnight for extra stuck-ness.

That's it--no polishing process needed!

The final result is awesome--I love how the fine details show up perfect!

The perfect custom lapel pins that don't take a long time at all!

Of course I had to make my favorite Fallout themed pins!

Now you have an easy way to turn your custom design into your own pin.

Make simple designs or find free design templates for making a fun custom product!

You can become a designer of enamel pins with this fun, yet high quality technique.

Awesome, right!?

These faux enamel pins are easy to make and so much fun!

Of course I had to make a handsome Squidward pin for my jacket--I'm in love with it!

What kind of enamel pin will you make?

Turn your art into wearable art with this fun DIY!

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Check out these fun Shrinky Dink posts too!

Faux Enamel Pins with High Gloss Resin DIY

How to Make Air Dry Clay Mushrooms Decor Cloche!

2026-03-06T06:00:00.021-05:00

How to Make Air Dry Clay Mushrooms Decor Cloche!

Learn how to make fake mushrooms in a cloche, appearing to be a delicate eco system terrarium, for the perfect home decor!

This fun project is made of air dry clay and are the perfect addition to a fairy garden, book shelf or unique gift!

Mushrooms are a diverse fungi with various forms, they contribute to ecosystems as decomposers.
Some are found in the culinary world and others in the medicinal realm.

Fungi, lacking chlorophyll, rely on decomposition for sustenance, playing vital roles in nutrient cycling.

Some mushrooms are edible delicacies, while others, like the toxic Amanita (the ones that are red with the white dots), pose dangers.

The overlooked world of fungi encompasses ecological importance, culinary delights, and promising medical avenues within natural resources--plus, they are so cute and a great craft for any skill level!

The good news is that if you have any mushroom allergies, these clay sculptures are for you!

Follow this step-by-step guide to air dry clay mushrooms!

This adorable cloche stuffed with faux mushrooms--those little mushroom tops looks almost too real.

I love what a conversation piece this mushroom clay sculpture has become as part of my home decor.

This mushroom project the perfect addition to a coffee table, book shelf or kitchen window.

It's the perfect time of the new year to start clay projects--give it a try! Good Luck!

Are you ready to set sail on a whimsical crafting journey, turning an ordinary Dollar Tree cloche display (or find something similar at the craft store) into a magical forest scene with a few simple mushroom?

Today, we'll jump into the enchanting world of crafting diy mushrooms using air-dry clay finished off with a white-washed paint stain.

Stick around to the end of this post for more clay mushroom ideas!

Materials Needed for Air Dry Clay Mushrooms Decor Cloche:

(with affiliate links)

Air-dry clay (or homemade clay recipes--like this homemade paper mache)
Dollar Tree cloche display (Only need to buy 4 online!)
Acrylic paint in a shade of brown (Coffee Bean)--or paint them different colors!
Paint brush
Water (just a little water)
Wooden Skewers
Heavy Duty Pliers
Hot Glue/Gun
Reindeer Moss (also Dollar Tree)
Hobby Knife (or palette knife)
Baby Wipes or Damp Cloth
Parchment Paper for work surface

Step 1: Air Dry Clay Mushroom Modeling Magic

Begin by cutting down skewers to fit inside the cloche easily.

(If you don't have a cloche, you could use a mason jar and turn it over--building up the mushroom clay sculptures in the lid.)

Cut three skewers in varying sizes so the mushrooms make a darling grouping.

Step 2: Air Dry Clay Sculpting

Now get a small ball of clay and roll it into long cylindrical shapes.

Make it bigger in diameter than the skewers and about the same size as a real mushroom stalk.

Then cut the clay a little longer than the skewer piece and push the wooden skewer in the clay.

This skewer will give the mushroom its stability and ability to hold up the heavy cap.

Press the stalk on a flat surface standing up in a straight line so it can dry with a flat base.

Step 3: Mushroom Cap Shape

Now get a small piece of clay, about the size of a large marble/ping pong ball and mold the air-dry clay into a cone shape.

Adapt as you work, decide how big the mushrooms should be.

Mold the cap with your fingers and make it slightly asymmetrical with natural features.

Step 4: Gills and Top of Stem

Then use a hobby knife to cut in the gills of the mushroom on the underside of the cap.

Fun Fact: The thin, papery structures under a mushroom cap are called gills.

Gills are responsible for producing and dispersing the mushroom's spores, which are essential for reproduction.

They radiate from the stem and provide a large surface area for the spores to be released into the air.

The arrangement and color of these gills can vary among different mushroom species and are often used as identifying features in mushroom classification.

Roll a thin piece of clay about 1/4 inch wide and roll it around the top of the stem.

Then gently slide the mushroom cap on the wooden skewer covered with air dry clay, making the perfect little mushroom shape.

Step 5: Air Dry Clay Drying Time

Allow your clay creations to air-dry thoroughly...a few days.

This step is crucial; patience will be rewarded with sturdy, lasting faux mushrooms.

While waiting, envision the enchantment your mushroom grove will bring to the cloche.

Do not place them in the oven or somewhere warm to speed it up, as that will cause cracking.

I still had some cracking, but it adds to the charm so I just carried on.

Step 6: Painting Air Dry Clay Mushrooms

Once dry, it's time to bring your mushrooms to life with a bit of acrylic paint.

Use an earthy tone, like coffee bean, to show the mushroom has pushed through the rich soil to appear suddenly overnight--as mushrooms seem to do!

Mix paint with a little bit of water to create a stain-like consistency, about a half and half ratio.

Quickly paint it on the mushroom with a round paintbrush in small sections at a time.

Then use a baby wipe or a damp cloth to wipe off most of the paint, leaving the depth in the gills, cracks and some on the surfaces.

This technique adds depth, making your mushrooms pop with character and a touch of whimsy.

Brush the watered paint stain on the mushroom in sections, then wipe as you go so the paint doesn't dry.

Don't be too worried about cleaning off all the paint, mushrooms push through the dirt and often they appear dirty!

Repeat the painting process on each section of the mushroom.

Do the same painting technique on the other mushrooms for the cloche terrarium display.

I'm absolutely in love with these little subtle details.

I love seeing the fingerprints from the clay forming look just like touching the delicate surface of a mushroom cap.

After the paint has been sufficiently wiped off, let the mushrooms and paint dry completely.

This doesn't take a long time at all--maybe 20 minutes or so.

Get Creative!

Use different paint colors--make a rainbow of mushrooms with bright colors for a different look, or paint the top of the mushroom cap red with tiny white dots of white paint!

Step 7: Faux Mushroom Cloche Assembly

Position your faux mushrooms within the Dollar Tree cloche.

Arrange them creatively, playing with heights and angles.

Hot glue the tallest mushroom on the cloche base first.

Place the lid on top just to see how it's all fitting in.

Then hot glue the other mushrooms in the cloche.

Decorate the base of the terrarium cloche with the reindeer moss.

Carefully cover the base of the mushrooms with pieces of moss, as well as any little cracks that might be too visible.

Finally, cover the base with the cloche bell lid.

The transparent cloche becomes a magical dome, encapsulating your whimsical forest creation!

Get Creative--make Christmas mushrooms!

Make your own clay mushroom ornaments--push a small hole in the top of the clay cap and thread a screw eye in it after it dries.

Use hot glue gun to attach a little moss on the mushroom stem and the bottom of the stem.

Then attach a jump ring and tie it off with a small piece of wire or ribbon for hanging on the Christmas tree!

Step 8: Display Delight

Place your cloche on a prominent shelf, table, or mantel, letting the magic unfold.

The faux mushrooms, with their intricate details and earthy tones, transform the cloche into a miniature enchanted forest, capturing the essence of nature's marvels.

Add a little miniature of a fairy or a garden gnome to add a little more whimsy!

I love this little air dry clay faux mushroom creation!

Those cute little mushrooms look good enough to eat!

Now that you know how to make these air dry clay mushrooms, you can turn them into ornaments with a little eye hook and ribbon for the tree, add them to wood slices for home decor or placing them in plant pots for a little fun element.

Crafting faux mushrooms for a Dollar Tree cloche display is a delightful blend of artistic expression and budget-friendly magic.

With air-dry clay and a touch of paint, you've turned an ordinary display into a whimsical woodland showcase that's sure to spark joy and admiration.

Let your crafting adventure begin!

What do you think?

Are you loving this mushroom trend right now?

I love it.

One of my bucket list items is to see a real Amanita mushroom in the wild.

Maybe it's a childhood raised on Smurfs...not sure, but I absolutely love mushrooms!

That's it!

Hope you love this fantastical crafting journey with air-dry clay--the perfect medium and a Dollar Tree cloche.

Mold whimsical faux mushrooms, each a unique creation, capturing the magic of an enchanted woodland.

The air-dry clay mushrooms, finished with a watered-down paint stain, breathe life into the cloche...with the reindeer moss.

Assembled like a miniature forest within the transparent dome, this Dollar Tree DIY project unveils a delightful display of creativity and nature's charm.

Placed on your shelf or table, the cloche becomes a portal to a whimsical realm, showcasing the beauty of handmade artistry in every carefully crafted mushroom. Let the enchantment unfold!

Pin, Like and Save!

Love MUSHROOMS? Check out all these Mushroom posts!

Check out this instagram reel on How to Make a Polymer Clay Fly Agaric Amantia Mushroom!

Cricut Watercolor Cards

Miniature Guitar Studio with Oven Bake Plants and Mushrooms

One-Up Mushroom Gift for a Gamer!

One-Up Mushroom from Mario Bros Iron-on Hoodie

Painted Fairy Garden Mushroom Yard Art

Which Mushroom craft is your favorite?

National Craft Month: 100 Crafting Ideas for March

2026-03-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

National Craft Month: 100+ Crafting Ideas for March

March is National Craft Month and that means it's the perfect time to create something beautiful, try a new project, finish those craft projects started in the craft room, or a great opportunity to learn new skills.

In celebration of national craft month I am sharing a broad range of crafts in a wide range of kinds of mediums, different themes, and fun ideas to create on your own or with friends.

Learn a new medium, work on simple projects with basic supplies or try crafting projects with different mediums...no artistic talent required.

I'm sharing 100+ Crafts that you can make for a happy national craft month!

<<Don't forget to PIN for later!>>

Which of these 100+ craft ideas is your favorite?

How to Make Knit Rainbow Pom Pom Wall Hanging DIY

Learn how to make a handmade knit rainbow pom pom wall art hanging!

This beautiful layered cuddly rainbow is easy to make with absolutely no knitting skill needed.

Just get a bunch of mini skeins in a superbright color palette and you'll be just about set, no straight needles required!

Martha Stewart Paint: Butterfly Specimen Wall Art DIY

Learn how to make butterfly specimen art using paint and stencils for a beautiful DIY Spring wall display.

Make this gorgeous home decor using the new Martha Stewart line at Plaid Crafts.

Martha Stewart's creamy paints are perfect for blending, adding texture and making a high quality art piece in an afternoon.

Cherry Decor DIY: How to Make Disco Ball Cherries

Learn how to make the cutest disco ball cherries to brighten up your shelf, desk or table, new crafts are so fun to make!

This cute cherry decor DIY is chic and groovy all in one!

Disco balls and cherries are all the rage, so they are a match made in heaven, let's get started!

How to Make Gel Plate Monoprints (DIY Art Printing)

Learn how to make gel plate monoprints with just a few simple supplies, a few minutes and no skill needed.

Monoprints are single time prints and can be created with just paint or layers of texture and impressions.

These are super fun paper crafts to create and I'll teach you how to get the best results, but you can experiment and make them your own in no time at all.

How to make Easy Paper Airplane (6 Fold Plane Steps)

Learn how to make an easy paper airplane with these 6 simple folds.

Paper airplanes are perfect for a quick build and lots of air time--and this is the best paper airplane to start with!

If you don't know how to fold a paper airplane, this is the perfect plane for beginners and hands of all skill levels...then you can learn more creative ways.

How to Make DIY Texture Modeling Paste (Easy Recipe)

Learn how easy and awesome it is to make modeling paste with your own hands!

Homemade texture paste is perfect for mixed media, stencil art and other fun papercrafting.

There's a pretty good chance you have what you need for this DIY modeling paste already!

How to Make Rubber Stamps with xTool S1 Laser Cutter

Craft fans with a laser cutter will have lots of options of things to make.

Learn how to make your own custom rubber stamps with the xTool S1 Laser cutting and laser engraving machine!

I am absolutely addicted to making rubber stamps now and you will be too--they are super intricate and detailed, I'm in love!

How to Make Origami Corner Bookmarks (Easy Paper DIY)

Origami paper corner bookmarks are super easy to make and perfect for teaching a large group.

Just a few easy steps and folding to make a little DIY origami corner bookmark to keep track of reading all during the school year.

These easy corner bookmarks are a perfect gift, easy crafts for a school class or youth group (great for fine motor skills), and all you need are some squares of paper.

How to Make Watercolor Bookmarks (Beginners Tutorial)

Learn how to paint watercolor bookmarks easily for the the perfect diy bookmark.

These make a great gift in addition to a favorite book! These fun bookmarks are inexpensive and easy to make...let your creative side shine!

Let me show you how to create these awesome watercolor effects effortlessly!

How to Make Air Dry Clay Mushrooms Decor Cloche!

Learn how to make fake mushrooms in a cloche, appearing to be a delicate eco system terrarium, for the perfect home decor!

This project is made of air dry clay and are the perfect addition to a fairy garden, book shelf or unique gift!

This fun and trendy craft is easy to make in great time, an hour or so, and let dry overnight...perfect for that cottage core vibe.

How to Make Japanese Paper Dolls with Origami Paper

Learn how to make Japanese Paper Dolls with origami paper.

These adorable layered geisha girls are the perfect handmade gift tags, bookmarks or even wall art.

These are not origami (paper folding with no glue), but use the vibrant shades of origami paper to capture the traditional origami vibe...as a paper doll.

DIY Laser Engraving a Mirror with xTool S1 20W Diode

Engrave a mirror with the xTool S1 Laser Cutting machine for a gorgeous statement piece of home decor and rekindle that joy of crafting.

Add an inspirational message or family motto on a mirror with glass laser engraving! This mirror trivet was picked up at the dollar store, so making these is super economical!

The possibilities with the xTool electronic products are endless!

How to Laser Engrave Journals DIY with xTool S1!

Learn how easy it is to make a laser engraved journal or notebook with xTool laser cutting machine.

Every time I do a laser cutting project it becomes my absolute favorite popular craft--and this is no exception, I totally love these faux leather engraved journals!

Engraving on journals is so fast, just minutes, and makes a gorgeous handmade gift, branded business merchandise or custom swag.

How to Make a Faux Snake Plant (Fake Plants DIY)

Learn how to make a fabulous fake snake plant using crepe paper!

Faux house plants are the perfect solution to a home office, dining room or living room that just don't get enough sunlight for live plants.

These faux sansevieria plants are a popular choice for interior design home decor because of their beautiful leaves with a unique design.

Let's get crafting this faux snake plant!

How to do Squeegee Art Cat Portraits!

Learn how to do simple squeegee art cat portraits! Squeegee art is a fun craft for all ages, and easy to do regardless of art skill level.

Make a cool pop-art vibe art piece of your favorite little felines using just a few supplies, including Plaid acrylic craft paint in a variety of colors.

How to Make Custom Shrink Plastic Enamel Lapel Pins

Learn how to make your own enamel pins with this fun faux shrink plastic enamel pin technique!

Make a collection of full color pin badges in various shapes and themes. Use custom art or print off some of your favorite things and transform them into pins.

I'll show you how to make them every step of the way, just a few supplies needed!

Make Rock Display Easels with Curtain Drapery Hooks

Learn how to easily display all your beautiful painted rocks with these small easels made from curtain hooks, super easy metal craft.

These drapery hooks are easily formed into the perfect little easels for painted rocks, handmade cards or any other knick-knack that you want to display in your living space.

Full details for shaping this display easel in the video or in the body of this post!

How to Make Mini Charcuterie Dollhouse Dessert Board

Learn how to make the most adorable miniature charcuterie dessert boards. (everyone at the hobby association will love these)

These cute mini's are perfect for a dollhouse at 1:12 scale.

They also make the most darling earrings, magnets, ornaments or just shelf decor.

How to Make a Wire Crown (DIY Elven Tiara Tutorial)

Learn how to make a wire wrapped crown or Elven tiara, perfect for dressing up, costumes, cosplay or every day wear.

These gorgeous wire crowns are my favorite accessory and I ended up making nearly 20 of them!

Let me walk you through one crown style and then you can get creative and make all the crowns your heart desires.

FYI: I am not a model, just an enthusiastic crafter that no longer has kids to force to model.

How to Engrave Stainless Steel with xTool 2W Infrared (IR) Laser DIY

Turn a love letter signature into a heirloom keepsake and a treasure to wear around the neck forever!

Learn how to engrave stainless steel pendants with the xTool S1 2W infrared laser.

Think of all the handmade, personalized gifts and handmade jewelry you can make with this amazing technique!

These are gorgeously engraved permanent marks and will not wipe off...turn your handwriting into a treasure.

Here's the step-by-step guide!

How to Make Bible Bookmarks with Qfun Laminator

Learn how to make fun bible verse bookmarks using the Qfun Laminator.

You can make any of your favorite bible verses into a bookmark to keep track of you reading in any book.

Bookmarks are such a fun craft and are easy to make, let's get started!

How to Make Minecraft Perler Bead Pattern Kid Crafts

Learn how to make Minecraft Perler Bead art, perfect for keychains, ornaments, hanging on a garland or giving as handmade gifts.

Minecraft is an iconic pixelated game that has spanned multiple generations.

My kids loved making Perler bead Minecraft characters and I bet your kids will too!

This post is updated from its original 2014 post.

How to Make Maple Seed Dragonfly (Nature DIY Craft)

Learn how to make the cutest little DIY Maple Seed Dragonflies with a few objects found in nature.

This fun craft project is perfect for a school or youth activity group, Summer camp craft, or sweet handmade gift, great for all ages, and perfect for Earth day crafting too.

Just a few natural materials and you've got the sweetest little dragonfly decoration.

How to Make Monstera Leaf Stained Glass Sun Catcher!

Learn how to make a stained glass monstera leaf sun catcher from beginning to end.

Copper foil stained glass is a great way to make a little stained glass hanger for the window without having to commit to an entire window.

Let's make a beautiful stained glass suncatcher with a monstera leaf and then the sky is the limit for new patterns and designs to try.

Stained Glass Tutorial for BEGINNERS!

How to Tie a Bow with Velvet Ribbon: Perfect Easy DIY

Tying the perfect ribbon bow is an art.

Learn how to tie the perfect bow knot with velvet ribbon...it's not how you think!

Make a stunning cake topper, a hair clip, garland or other fun home decor with gorgeous velvet bows.

Let's get started making a fancy bow!

How to Create Bookmarks with Gel Plate Printing DIY

Learn how to create beautiful bookmarks with gelli printing art monoprints!

Mono printing with a gel plate or gelli plate is so much fun, and transforming your gorgeous unique pieces and prints into laminated bookmarks is a quick and easy craft.

Let's get started creating these gorgeous ginkgo leaf printed bookmarks!

How to Make Monoprint Cards (Gel Plate Card Making)

Learn how to make greeting cards with gold ginkgo leaf monoprints.

Card making is one of my favorite, and OG crafts, I started card making in 2006.

These cards with monoprinted backgrounds are easy to make, stunning and perfect for any occasion.

Let's get started using these beautiful mono prints!

How to Make Ginkgo Leaves Bookmark Gingko Leaf Crafts

Learn how to make Ginkgo leaves bookmark using actual leaves.

This is a fun nature craft that works with the leaves used on gel plate ginkgo leaf prints, with a subtle amount of gold acrylic paint on each leaf surface.

Let's get started creating these natural and earthly bookmarks!

How to do Loose Acrylic Painting (Beginner Tutorial)

Loose acrylic painting is fast, quick drying paint in layers, creating depth and contrast in colors.

Back during the last week of September 2024, I picked up a new favorite hobby of loose acrylic painting!

I'm going to walk you through the basic steps of loose acrylic painting as a reference or guide, but as always, if you are excited about loose acrylic painting, sign up for a class or a course.

(More info below)

How to Make Geode Glass Art (Plaid Fragment Effects)

Learn how to make a gorgeous geode glass wall hanging using Plaid's newest product, Fragment Effects.

This stained glass comes crushed and is great for various center stage uses in wall art, canvases, stained glass effects and resin.

Let me teach you all about how to use Plaid Fragment Effects, and walk you through a beautiful geode craft that can be completed by any skill level.

How to Make DIY Textured Art (Create High End Artwork)

Learn how to make DIY Textured art, perfect for high end artwork or brightly colored texture for a fun art piece.

Textured art is trendy and expressive!

It's abstract to impressionistic, so not much fine art skill is required to make large scale wall art.

How to Make Corelle Plate Necklace Jewelry DIY!

Learn how to transform vintage, chipped or cracked plates and dishes into wearable jewelry, necklace pendants and more.

Did you have Corelle Butterfly Gold plates? They launched in 1970 and I think everyone I knew growing up had them. This was our family plate pattern.

Make nostalgic jewelry with old dinner plates using lead-free solder, great for handmade gifts too!

How to Use Plaid Folkart Murano Glass Paint DIY

Learn how to use Plaid Folkart Murano Glass Paint on a few glass projects.

It's a fun way to add the look of hand-blown glass to glass objects that need some excitment.

Upcycle various glass pieces with different glass effects from Plaid's line of Murano Glass Paint.

How to Make a Resin Geode Mirror (Easy DIY Tutorial)

Learn how to upcycle a chipped mirror into a resin geode mirror with Amazing Clear Cast Epoxy resin, Color Creator Mica Powders, glitter and glass crystals!

This gorgeous mirror looks amazing and takes just a little bit of time to create this piece of art.

Maybe you have a mirror that already could use a face-lift or you can thrift one easily over the weekend and make a statement geode art piece for your home!

How to Make Nursery Name Sign (Custom DIY with xTool)

Learn how to make a gorgeous nursery name sign for a new bundle of joy!

Make a name sign for any occasion, not just a new baby...change the text for a wedding, family name or with a fun saying.

This wood sign is perfect for customizing with a first and middle name, and looks great as home decor.

How to Make Custom Shrink Plastic Enamel Lapel Pins

Learn how to make your own enamel pins with this fun faux shrink plastic enamel pin technique!

Make a collection of full color pin badges in various shapes.

I'll show you how to make them every step of the way!

Glitter Resin Tumblers

Using glitter in all shapes and sizes is the perfect way to decorate a boring blank tumbler.

You'll want t cup spinner for this craft, but it's one of the great beginner resin projects!

How to Make Glitter Resin Tumblers!

Learn how easy and fun it is to make glitter resin tumblers.

These tumblers are super sparkly with a variety of glitter colors and sizes!

Customize these tumbler for any occasion! Wedding party color scheme, Graduation gift school colors, or just a favorite color!

Miniature Guita r Studio

Small objects made with a laser cutter are awesome when coated with some high gloss clear resin.

How to Make a Miniature Acoustic Guitar Studio! This miniature guitar studio is one of my most favorite projects to date. I love how this tiny little acoustic guitar turned out.

I love that mini hairpin leg stool. Learn how to make a miniature acoustic guitar and potted plants for the miniature lover in your life!

How to Make a DIY Spinner Prize Wheel!

This simple DIY craft making a Spinner Prize Wheel will make you a Rockstar!

Don't you just love spinning a prize wheel and hoping you land on the jackpot prize at the fair or other event?

A spinning wheel is so much fun and this DIY pattern is easy for anyone to make with little investment.

I thought they would be fun for backyard parties, trunk-or-treats, events and even chores--so I invented this DIY version that you can make for all your events!

Marbled Polymer Clay Earrings

How to Make Marbled Polymer Clay Earrings!

Learn how fun and simple it is to make marbled polymer clay earrings!

Polymer clay bakes is soft to work with and bakes hard in the oven.

Marbling the clay makes gorgeous quartz crystal effects, paired with gold leaf for the ultimate classy earrings.

How to Make a Personalized Library Stamp with xTool!

Learn how to make a beautiful custom stamp for marking that book collection with a signature library stamp.

Custom book stamps are the perfect gift for book collectors and book lovers. Create a high quality stamp with a business logo, a favorite quote, a full name, phone number, or even just monogram stamps.

Create a personal library stamp with crisp impression lines using the xTool laser cutting machine.

Colored Pencil Vase

Make your own colored pencil vase with 216 colored pencils, Easycast Deep Pour resin and a lathe for wood turning.

This is definitely an advanced project, you'll need a lathe and a several steps, but this is an interesting craft if you are ready for new possibilities.

Vintage Lucite Resin Grapes

How to make Vintage Resin Lucite Grapes DIY with easycast resin.

This home décor resin art is an old crafting technique from the 50's!

Use different colors and make lucite grapes match your vibe.

Great project for someone that's worked with resin before.

Glitter Keychains

How to Make Glitter Resin Keychains!

Make gorgeous glitter resin keychains with power words as the perfect handmade gift. These glitter keychains are a great resin craft for beginners.

Learn to make glitter resin keychains with power words using EasyCast Resin, letter beads, tassels and keychain hardware.

Small items made with pour resin and glitter is an easy way to make a statement without too much work!

I Spy Game Trinket Tray

This I spy game resin serving tray filled with miniatures and trinkets is a fun DIY and would make a great gift!

Fill the tray with little things from the junk drawer or little heirlooms that sit in a jewelry box collecting dust. (Or you can buy a bunch of miniatures at craft stores)

With a thick layer of glossy resin--done in several thin layers, the trinkets stay in place and offer a smooth surface for using the tray for serving or a coffee table catch all.

Resin Faux Quartz Crystals

How to make faux quartz crystals using easycast resin!

Create beautiful items with a clear deep pour type of resin, that sparkle in the sunlight just like the real thing!

Glitter Light Switch Plate!

How to make a glittery light switch plate cover using glitter and resin!

Customize the color of glitter and top it off with High Gloss Resin for a smooth and shiny finish.

It’s a simple DIY craft (and hack light light) that just takes a few minutes of work time and overnight drying.

Resin Vintage Frame Art Magnets

How to make mini vintage works of epoxy resin crafts art!

Casting vintage frames out of Fast Cast resin and printing famous works of art, then coating them with high gloss resin for the perfect fridge artwork.

Rainbow Alcohol Ink Coasters

Petrified Rainbow coasters using Easy Cast resin and Alcohol ink drips.

How to Make Stained Glass with Gallery Glass Paint

Learn how to make the perfect faux stained glass using Plaid's Gallery Glass and Gallery Glass Leading Sheets.

It's easy to create a suncatcher, glass frame or even add special elements to a glass window in your home, or the glass side panels on the front door.

Stained glass suncatchers are beautiful and popular, and Gallery Glass is a great alternative to the huge investment and skill it takes to cut and solder real stained glass.

Beetles Paperweights

Beetles or bugs in clear resin for paperweights or pendants--great way to preserve insects for specimens or fun!

How to Make Air Dry Clay Trinket Dish (DIY Ring Bowl)

Learn how to make gorgeous air dry clay trinket dishes, ring bowls and home decor.

Sparkly, glitter, and a touch of gold flashing on brightly colored painted dishes--perfect effect for a ceramic like finish.

Make one clay dish or make several for handmade gifts.

DVD Mosaic Tray

DVD mosaic serving tray with high gloss resin for smooth and glossy finish.

Upcycle those old burnable dvd's or cd's and let the shimmery shiny finish make the perfect mosaic.

Finished off with high gloss resin for the perfect effect!

How to Make Wire Word Art (Knit Wrapped Words DIY)

Make a wire word art wreath with the I-cord Knitter for the perfect home decor.

The I-Cord Knitter transforms a piece of yarn into a knit tube, the perfect casing for wire words to give it a unique and cozy touch.

Make a nursery sign with wire names, a favorite motto, longer words, a wreath or home decor for the perfect handmade decoration or homemade gift.

How to Make Monogram Resin Keychains DIY Tutorial

Learn how to make monogram resin key chains with colorful tassels!

Resin keychains are easy to make, are great gifts and perfect for back-to-school backpack flair.

You just need a letter mold, a small amount of resin and some hardware--and not much time at all before you have monogram keychains!

HOW TO MAKE CUSTOM SCREEN PRINTED T-SHIRTS WITH XTOOL

Learn how to make your own custom t-shirts with xTool screen printing!

Take your own design, image or logo and flawlessly screen print it onto shirts, merch, gear bags, and much more!

This is a great way to make custom merchandise for a business, handmade gifts, family reunion shirts!

How to Make Wood Bead Tiered Wreath DIY (Fall Decor)

This tiered wood bead wreath is the perfect wreath for the front door for Fall, or any time of year.

Make a DIY wood bead wreath for your own home decor or for a great handmade gift!

Just a few supplies needed and this simple wood bead wreath can be put together in less than 30 minutes!

How to Paint a Globe (DIY Galaxy Star Map Tutorial)

Transform an old globe into a galaxy star map perfect for Halloween or just every day home decor.

Find a vintage globe at thrift stores, yard sales or out of the dusty attic and make it a statement piece for the coffee table.

With a few simple steps and a coat of paint, you'll have an awesome DIY globe just in time for spooky season.

DIY How to Make a Wood Bead Wreath (Half Split Ball)

I love the look of big wood bead wreaths and had to make one for myself!

The beauty of the split balls is the wreath can sit absolutely flat against the wall or front door.

Learn how easy it is to make a gorgeous wood bead wreath with 2 inch split wood balls and then additional ideas of how to decorate it at the end of the post!

How to Paint Wood Chairs DIY (No Sanding Needed)

I love refinishing furniture--especially furniture I found on the street, destined for the trash.

These lovely wooden chairs were spotted on my morning workout, and my friend and I carried them back to my house for updating.

Learn how easy it is to paint wood chairs with no sanding or intense preparation needed.

How to Make a Magnetic Fishing Set!

Learn how easy it is to make a cute little pocket size magnetic fishing set to keep small ones entertained. This little magnetic fishing set is easy to carry in a purse, bag or backpack for instant entertainment on the go.

Make darling felt fish with magnetic washers inside to easily catch with a magnet fishing pole in 30 minutes.

Make a Laser Cut Earring Holder DIY with xTool S1

Learn how to make a gorgeous DIY earring display perfect for keeping track of earrings or for displaying earrings for sale at an event!

If you have a big earring collection there are so many wonderful earring stand options--even combining with jewelry organizer solutions too!

Anthropologie Inspired Monogram Mug DIY with Cricut Infusible Ink

Learn how to make an Anthro inspired monogram mug with Cricut Infusible Ink and Cricut Mug Press.

This DIY is a little complex, using 4 colors of infusible ink, but it's finish is well worth the effort!

Plus, the mug is dishwasher and microwave safe!

How to Make Harry Potter Golden Snitch DIY FREE SVG

If you are a Harry Potter fan, you will love this simple Harry Potter fun craft!

Make a DIY Golden Snitch tealight candle holder, perfect for a Harry Potter party, wedding or special event!

How to Use the Cricut Hat Press with Infusible Ink

Learn how to use the Cricut Hat Heat Press for making custom hats and headwear.

I got a new hat press to try out and I love it!

I'm showing how easily it works with Cricut Infusible Ink Transfers to make the perfect Anthro-inspired Trucker hat.

How to Host a Tie Dye Shirt Party (Supplies & Ideas)

Tie Dye is the first signs of Summertime and a tie-dye party is the best way to celebrate!

The bright colors and hippy look are perfect for Summer barbecue's, parades, Summer camp and Family reunions.

Learn everything you need to know about tie dying shirts so you are ready to host a fabulous tie dye event!

How to Make a Flower Crown DIY Tutorial (Silk Floral)

Learn how to make a flower crown with faux flowers!

A beautiful flower crown is bright, vibrant and easy to make--perfect for a stunning boho look!

There are so many fun reasons to wear a DIY floral crown!

How to Make Boondoggle Lanyard Keychains DIY Tutorial!

Boondoggle lanyards are synonymous with Summer!

The plastic cord, the bright colors, the possibilities for bracelets boondoggle keychains.

Learn how to make your own boondoggle keychains using plastic lacing cord for the perfect Summer craft!

How to Make Leather Bracelet with xTool Laser Cutter!

Learn how to make stunning leather bracelets with the xTool Laser Cutting machine.

It's easy to make laser cut leather bracelet and makes a meaningful gift for a special occasion!

These wrap-around wrist bracelets are easy to make and secure with a stud rivet...they are adjustable in size, can be customized and only take 3 supplies!

How to Make Disco Mirror Ball Shoes DIY Tutorial

Disco Mirror Ball! Ever been to a club, dance hall or school dance and just thought "I totally need a disco ball!"? No, just me?

Turns out that mirror tiles belong on everything from the dance floor to shoes!

It's easy to create some dance club worthy footwear using mirror tiles and the familiar swirl pattern of a disco mirror ball.

Make disco ball shoes easily with just a couple supplies and a lot of time--the perfect mirror mirror foot wear.

How to Make Giant Coffee Filter Flowers Hand Dyed DIY

Learn how to make giant coffee filter flowers that are hand dyed, the perfect DIY.

Make these diy coffee filter flowers for party decorations, backdrops, events, a baby shower, weddings, or just home decor!

Coffee filter crafts are an inexpensive craft and perfect for a fun Springtime project!

Reclaimed Wood Lamp with Geometric Himmeli Shade!

Upcycled and reclaimed projects are my favorite! This awesome lamp was made with an old piece of a pallet, a lighting kit and straws.

Yes, this lamp with geometric himmeli shade cost nearly nothing to make and it makes such a statement!

Scrabble Tiles Family Name Framed Word Art DIY

Scrabble! Do you like playing Scrabble? I love this game, it's one of my favorites.

I love spelling and word games. However, no one likes to play them with me--haha.

This is the solution!

Make a custom piece to hang in your home or give as a gift.

Make one for grandma and grandpa with all the grandkid names.

Do your family names fit in a scrabble layout?

How to Use Mod Podge Crackle Finish!

Learn how to easily add weather and crackling to wood paint with Mod Podge Crackle finish.

It's easy to use and gives a unique finish to a painted project.

See how it adds texture and depth to this wood picture frame in one easy process, this crackle effect works on anything you paint, knick-knacks, candlesticks, decor, signs and more!

Plaid Terrazzo Paint Flakes on Plaster Coasters!

Learn how to apply Plaid FolkArt Terrazzo Paint Flakes using the FolkArt Terrazzo Sealers.

Use a variety of the new terrazzo flakes to give ordinary objects more dimension, depth and interest.

Follow along for how to make plaster disks sealed with terrazzo flakes for the perfect chic and retro coasters.

How to Paint Pour on Rocks!

Painting rocks is so much fun--they are the perfect canvas for all kinds of art.

Paint pouring on rocks is super duper fun--it's easy and requires no artistic skill level or age range.

Learn how easy it is to paint pour on rocks and do it as a last Summer craft with the kids, with friends for a crafter-noon or as a date night craft.

How to Make a Mountain Sunset Mandala

This mountain sunset mandala art is the perfect Summer craft!

It's got all the late night/camping/sunset in the mountains vibes.

I'm a beach girl in my mind, but my budget and location make me a mountain girl.

Let's make this gorgeous wall art piece in just a few minutes!

How to Make Natural Crystal Point Necklaces!

These natural crystal necklaces are beautiful and healing.

This is a great jewelry making craft for beginners too.

Learn how to make a natural crystal shard necklace for a handmade gift, awesome accessory or as a girls craft night!

How to Make a Wire Wrapped Bird Nest Necklace!

Learn how simple it is to make a wire wrapped bird nest necklace.

This is the perfect handmade Mother's Day gift, one little bead "egg" for each of her children.

Make this bird nest necklace in less than 30 minutes.

Vintage Frame Ring Holders!

Turn an old frame into a stunning ring display holder!

Upcycled crafts are my favorite. I love taking something old and making it something new.

Make ring display holders for gifts, displays for boutique sales, or just to display your favorite rings on your nightstand.

Cereal Box Refillable Journals Upcycled Craft DIY!

Make a cereal box refillable journal for the perfect Earth Day crafting!

These cute notebooks are perfect and can be refilled with any kind of paper you like.

Turn a cereal cardboard box into a refillable notebook for sketching, drawing and note taking.

Upcycled Rolled Paper Frame!

This frame is visually stunning with lots of texture and pops of color!

However...it's menace runs deeper.

This was the most tedious and time consuming project I've ever wrangled my kids into doing.

It turned out stunning, with vivid colors and looks amazing...but it was the most tedious project I've ever tackled!

Damask Polymer Clay Pendants made with Sculpey!

Learn how to make these stunning damask polymer clay pendants!

These pendants are beautiful but are much easier to make than they look.

This fun craft I did back in 2014 and I thought it was time for a much needed refresh!

How to Make a Paper Basket!

A paper basket is adorable and so easy to make!

Make this cute paper basket with just one square piece of paper...or double them up for a color block look!

This was posted back in 2017 and I just knew it needed a refresh!

How to Make a Dreamcatcher!

Learn how to make a dreamcatcher with this simple tutorial!

Dreamcatchers are beautiful, whimsical and full of creative possibilities.

How to Make a Front Porch Sign with Cricut!

Make a tall, skinny front porch sign with a board, paint, vinyl and Cricut.

This cute sign can be customized and fit beautifully on nearly every front porch, right next to the door.

Make a interchangeable decoration to add more fun, like the "O" in this Welcome sign!

How to Make Rhinestone Hair Clips!

I love sparkly things! These rhinestone hair clips are easy to make and make a super chic statement.

Make the perfect accessory with a few rhinestones, some adhesive and just a little bit of time.

If you've wanted to try adding rhinestones to things--but don't want to be overwhelmed, this is the perfect place to start!

How to Make a Wrist Corsage or Boutonniere with Fresh Flowers!

Boutineer, Wrist Corsage, Corsage, Wrist Bouquet, Boutonniere--however you say it, this is how to make it. Making your own floral arrangements can save you money and create a uniquely custom piece that you would have a hard time finding at a floral shop.

This technique is perfect for Prom, School Dances, Military Balls, Weddings, Mother's Day or any other fancy occasion that calls for flowers.

Cactus Faux Leather Tote Bag with Cricut!

Make the cutest cactus tote with shimmery foil to shine like a disco ball!

This is also a wonderful way to use scraps of iron-on vinyl--so bust out the scrap box and get polka dotting a tote beofre the new year!

It's easy to make with one simple image cut multiple times. Best part is that Iron-on Vinyl adheres perfectly to faux leather, and it couldn't be more easy!

How to Rhinestone Shoes!

Make the most gorgeous rhinestone shoes with aurora borealis gemstones!

These stunning shoes are just what you need to wear to ring in the new year! I love wearing all kinds of sparkle--and New Year's Eve is the perfect excuse!

Just a couple hours and a pile of rhinestones is all it takes to take shoes from drab to fab!

Learn how to make rhinestone shoes for the perfect upgrade to a pair of shoes!

How to Build: Lego Unicorn Instructions--9 ways!

Lego Unicorns are the best! I found a severe lack of Unicorn Lego instructions and decided to make my own.

Build the most epic Lego Unicorn with a rainbow colored mane, gold tiara and horn, rainbow colored waterfall tail and star cutie mark on the flank!

Full PDF instructions for this Lego Unicorn in the supplies list below!

Hogwarts House Bunting Made with Cricut!

Which Hogwarts house will you be in this back-to-school season? I think I'm a Ravenclaw girl...but maybe because I like those colors best.

Make this layered iron-on vinyl bunting with the Hogwarts house crests as the perfect backdrop for a party or Harry Potter themed classroom.

How to Make Butterfly Popup Cards!

Make the cutest cards for quick gifts, thank you notes or just because cards! These butterfly pop-up cards are easy to make and take less than 5 minutes from start to finish.

Let's make 4 butterfly pop-up cards with just 4 supplies and 5 spare minutes!

Super Sci-Fi Rocket Fueled Jet Pack--Upcycled Craft DIY

I love upcycled crafts. There is nearly nothing better than taking something destined for the landfill and turning into pure joy. This Rocket Jet Pack is the perfect upcycled craft.

It's easy and quick to make! You can add all the embellishments in the world, or just let it be the fuel for your child's imagination.

How to Make a Luminary with Cricut Knife Blade

I love the new Knife Blade for the Cricut Maker. This was my first knife blade project and I love how it turned out. Learn how to make a fabulous lampshade or luminary with paper and chipboard.

Makes a unique piece of home decor or centerpiece for a fancy event. Just place over a simple lamp or use a battery operated candle inside.

I posted this back in 2018 and then Cricut made some Design Space changes and my pattern was no longer available for a while. It's updated now and you can make this gorgeous luminary today!

Cricut Maker Rotary Blade Happy Birthday Fabric Bunting DIY!

Make the perfect fabric bunting for all the birthday's on your list! This banner is easy to make using the Cricut Maker with the Rotary Blade and iron-on vinyl with the EasyPress 2.

It's perfect to hang on the mantle or wall for every birthday you are celebrating! Makes a great backdrop for a party or can be customized to say anything you want for any/every holiday!

How to Make a Vintage Button Heart Frame!

Learn how to make a vintage button heart in an ornate frame.

Pull out those old vintage buttons in the cookie tin and turn them into a beautiful piece of decor for the home.

Gather a few supplies from around the house or take a trip to the dollar store to get the necessary items for this craft.

It's a great handmade gift, perfect decor for Valentines day or year round, and can be done as a kids craft project too!

Hello Vinyl Wood Sign with Bright Felt Flowers!

Isn't this hello sign perfectly bright and cheery with these colorful felt flowers!? Just a few supplies make this perfect Spring decoration for the mantle, bookshelf or in the entryway. Let me show you how to make felt flowers to add color to a vinyl wood sign for the perfect home decor piece!

It's super simple to make and then options are endless when it comes to adding a greeting. Let's craft this cute sign in less than an hour!

Make a bunch and sell them at a Spring craft show--they will fly off the shelf!

Acrylic Dirty Pour Painting on Serving Tray with Resin DIY!

Make a Dirty Pour Painting on a serving tray! This fun craft is perfect for all skill levels. Trust me, I'm a beginner.

Have you seen the latest painting trend? Acrylic pours are one of the most satisfying forms of art and creativity. It's a surprise every pour! You can't plan too much how it will turn out...it's like cracking open a geode.

I have done a lot of research and will try to walk the very beginner through this process. If you have questions, please email me and I will help you. Many acrylic pours are done on canvas with the excess paint rolling off the edges. By pouring this in the tray, we are expecting it to work out perfectly without excess paint.

How to Make Giant Peony Paper Flowers!

I love paper crafts.

Paper is very economical and a great way to make a big statement.

These finished paper flowers are big, a foot in diameter!

They are bright colored and very easy to make...and the best part is they only require 3 supplies.

Make giant paper peonies for the perfect party backdrop, home or seasonal decor, giant bouquet of flowers or bedroom decoration.

This budget friendly craft is a must try!

Watercolor Alcohol Ink and Gold Leaf Coasters!

Learn how to make watercolor ink or alcohol ink and gold leaf coasters.

This fun DIY used ceramic tiles as the perfect painting medium.

That's it!

I hope these 100 crafts inspire you on your creative journey during the month of March for National Crafting Month!

I've got everything on the list except cross stitch, which you should totally give a try...or I should.
I love trying new things and sharing classics.

I have so many more crafts to share with you this month, so if you aren't on my mailing list, sign up!

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Check out my social media too!

How to Use We R Makers Universal Cinch Machine DIY

2026-03-02T06:00:00.319-05:00

How to Use We R Makers Universal Cinch Machine DIY

If you love making your own planners, journals, and happy little handmade notebooks, you’re going to want to hear about this tool.

We R Makers Universal Cinch Binding Tool

I recently got the We R Makers Universal Cinch Binding Tool and spent some quality time putting it through its paces—plus making a stack of darling notebooks in the process.

And let me tell you… this machine is a dream for bookmaking.

Whether you’re brand new to binding or you’ve dabbled with traditional binding tools before, the Universal Cinch makes the entire process smoother, faster, and more customizable.

Today I’m sharing a full review of the machine plus a detailed step-by-step tutorial so you can create your own professional-quality books at home.

Be sure to watch the full video tutorial too!

Universal Cinch Binding Machine Review

The Universal Cinch is an upgraded take on the classic Cinch tool that so many paper crafters already love.

But this version expands your creative possibilities with a unique slot punch system that allows for many different binding applications.

Here’s what stood out to me:

✨ Versatility Beyond Traditional Binding Tools

Unlike some traditional binding tools that are limited to one hole pattern or binding style, the Universal Cinch gives you flexibility.

The slot punch design allows for customization and alignment adjustments, making it easier to experiment with various wire sizes and formats.

For this review, I used standard binding wires—but knowing I can branch out into other binding styles later is exciting.

✨ Compact But Powerful

It doesn’t take up much workspace, which I love. It feels sturdy without being bulky.

It’s absolutely suitable for crafters of all skill levels—from beginners making their first journal to seasoned scrapbookers creating professional-quality books for sale.

Overall, the Universal Cinch is a fantastic solution for all your bookmaking needs. It simplifies the process while expanding creative possibilities.

✨ Clean, Consistent Punching

The punch mechanism is strong and smooth. It handles multiple sheets of paper at once and punches chipboard covers cleanly without ragged edges.

The result? Crisp holes that lead to polished, professional-looking bound results.

How to Make a Custom Wire-Bound Notebook

Here’s my step-by-step process for creating a handmade notebook using the Universal Cinch.

SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR NOTEBOOK BINDING WITH UNIVERSAL CINCH:

Universal Cinch Binding Tool
Wire Loops (2:1 Pitch)
Guillotine Paper Cutter
Interior pages (copy paper, patterned paper, mixed media paper—whatever you love)
Chipboard for the front and back covers
Decorative paper (optional, for covering chipboard)
Embellishments (washi tape, ephemera, paper pieces, etc)

The Cinch binding tools typically punch circle or square holes for the wire binding...I love all my Cinch Binding tools!

The Universal Cinch punches a slot, which allows for a variety of binding options.

Step 1: Cutting Paper and Chipboard to Size

Cut everything to the exact same size.

For example:

5” x 7” for a compact notebook

6” x 8” for a slightly larger journal

Use a Paper Cutter to cut:

20–40 sheets of interior paper
1 chipboard or cardstock piece for the back cover
1 chipboard or cardstock piece for the front cover

If you’d like decorated covers, adhere patterned paper to the chipboard before punching holes, so they line up properly.

Start by deciding the size of your notebook. For my samples, I made smaller, easy-to-doodle notebooks—perfect for tossing in a bag.

Step 2: Punching Holes with the Cinch

Now the fun begins.

Turn on (or position) your Universal Cinch on a sturdy surface.

Use the ruler guide to align your paper stack.

Insert a manageable stack of paper into the punch slot.

Pull the lever down firmly to punch.

Repeat until:

All interior pages are punched

Both chipboard covers are punched

Tip: Punch covers separately for the cleanest result.

The holes should line up perfectly thanks to the built-in guide. It’s extremely satisfying.

Step 3: Cutting Wire Loops to Length

Measure your wire binding against the edge of your notebook.

Clip the excess wire loops and save them for another notebook.

Hang the wire loops on the edge of the Cinch binding tool.

Step 4: Assembling the Notebook (Stacking Order Matters!)

This is the most important part for a professional finish.

Correct stacking order (from bottom up as you insert onto the wire):

Back cover face up.
Front cover face down.
Then the stack of Interior pages

Thread everything onto the open wire while it’s resting on the side hooks of the Cinch.

This stacking order ensures that when you close the wire and flip the notebook over, the seam of the wire will be hidden neatly inside the back cover.

That tiny detail makes a big difference in achieving professional-quality books.

Step 5: Pressing the Wires Down

Place the wire guide on the Cinch machine so the wires can cradle in easily for a smooth press.

Lift the book, wires and all off the edge of the Cinch and place the wire (with all pages loaded) into the wire-closing mechanism on the back of the machine.

Gently press the lever to close the wire.
Check alignment before pressing fully.

You want:

A clean circular shape
Ends that meet without overlapping
Don’t over-crimp. It’s better to go slowly and adjust.

Step 6: Flip the Notebook Cover Over

Now for the magic moment!

Flip the front cover over the top of the stack.

The wire seam should now be hidden behind the back cover, giving you beautifully bound results that look professionally made.

Give your notebook a flip-through. The pages should turn smoothly and lay comfortably.

Step 7: Decorating Your Notebook

Now comes my favorite part—making it adorable.

Here are some fun decorating ideas:

Washi Tape

Add strips of bright colors from top to bottom
Create borders along edges
Use thin metallic washi for subtle shimmer

Ephemera

Tuck ticket stubs or die cuts under layered paper
Add vintage labels
Build a focal collage cluster

Paper Pieces

Cut shapes with punches
Layer patterned paper frames
Add torn paper edges for texture

Gold Elements

Gold foil accents
Metallic cardstock die cuts
Gold splatter for an artsy vibe

Stamps

Background texture stamping
Title stamps like “Notes” or “Ideas”
Ink-blended stamped frames

Paper Crafting Supplies

Enamel dots
Stickers
Ribbon tabs
Fabric scraps
Clear overlays

You can go minimalist or fully layered and dimensional.

TYPES OF BINDING EDGES WITH THE UNIVERSAL CINCH:

1. Wire Binding (Twin Loop / Double Loop Wire)

This is the most common and polished option.

Also called:

Twin loop binding

Double-O wire binding

Why it’s great:

Clean, professional look
Pages lay flat
Durable and sturdy
Perfect for planners, journals, notebooks, and workbooks

This is ideal if you want polished, professional-quality books with crisp, secure bound results.

2. Plastic Coil Binding (Spiral Binding)

Also called:

Spiral binding

Coil binding

Why it’s great:

Super flexible
Pages fold completely back on themselves
Lightweight

Great for kids’ notebooks or thicker books

The Universal Cinch’s adjustable punching alignment makes it easy to prepare pages for inserting coil.

3. Ribbon or Twine Binding

Because the Universal Cinch uses slot-style punches, you can thread ribbon, twine, yarn, leather cord, or elastic through the punched holes.

Perfect for:

Junk journals
Mini albums
Gift booklets
Handmade keepsake books

This gives a softer, more decorative finish.

4. Book Rings

Metal book rings or binder rings can easily slide through the punched holes.

Benefits:

Pages can be added or removed
Industrial, modern look
Great for swatch books, sample books, or flash cards

5. Elastic Binding

You can thread elastic through the holes to create refillable notebooks or travel journal–style inserts.

This works especially well for smaller notebooks and art journals.

6. Custom Mixed Media Bindings

Because the Universal Cinch is adaptable, crafters often use it for creative alternatives like:

Chain binding
Decorative wire alternatives
Fabric strip binding
Leather thong binding
Decorative cord lacing

The slot punch gives you more creative freedom than many traditional binding tools that are locked into one pattern.

That's it!

The We R Makers Universal Cinch Binding Tool is a fantastic addition to any craft room. It combines the reliability of traditional binding tools with modern versatility and thoughtful features like the ruler guide and slot punch system.

It makes creating professional-quality books approachable and enjoyable. Whether you’re crafting journals for yourself, gifts for friends, or items to sell, it truly meets a wide range of bookmaking needs.

Most importantly—it’s accessible. Crafters of all skill levels can achieve clean, polished, beautifully bound results with minimal learning curve.

If you’ve been on the fence about adding a binding machine to your collection, this might be the one that opens up a whole new world of handmade paper projects.

Now excuse me while I go make five more notebooks. 😊

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CHECK OUT THESE POSTS FOR MORE CINCH NOTEBOOK CRAFTS!

Gratitude Journals: We R Memory Keepers Cinch Binding Tool

Learn how to make these paper pieced gratitude journals using the We R Memory Keepers Cinch Binding tool.

Keeping track of special moments, things that worked out and little tender mercies is such a good way to focus on the positive parts of life rather than the dreary.

Upcycled Book Notebooks made with the Cinch DIY

I love notebooks, do you? I have a bazillion notebooks. Some I write in...some I doodle in...and some just sit there, too nice to mark up. But I love notebooks all the same.

The next best things to notebooks, is making more notebooks! This tutorial is all about taking old books and upcycling them into wire bound notebooks.

Watercolor Floral Notebooks with The Cinch!

I love making notebooks, journals, diaries, or sketchbooks and The Cinch Binding Tool is the perfect way!

I'll show you how to make your own notebooks for a great handmade gift, keeping track of wonderful doodles, journaling or just because! Make a wire bound notebook in just a few minutes.

Cinch Notebooks Made with Cereal Boxes!

Follow me on Instagram and TikTok - make craft tutorials daily!

How to Make Color Shift Watercolors DIY Tutorial

2026-02-27T06:00:00.001-05:00

How to Make Color Shift Watercolors DIY Tutorial!

Learn how to make your own homemade color shift watercolors. Color shifting watercolors are amazing! They can be pricey and hard to acquire...I know, I've tried!

I decided the best way to get what I wanted was to make it myself. It's hard to find a great tutorial on homemade watercolors, so this tutorial is my gift to you!

This tutorial is all the tips and tricks, supplies and process needed for making your own handmade watercolor paint.

Okay, let me be honest.

Handmade colorshift watercolor paint making is a PROCESS, it takes a long time. It's not something I want to go into business doing.

I sold a few sets around the holidays to offset the cost of my expenses, but I'm not planning on selling any more.

But it's a new fun way to make something yours...using natural pigments and distilled water with a touch of magic!

Watercolor paints are my favorite medium. I love mixing mica powder in it for a dynamic shine!

The color shift paints look different on white watercolor paper versus black watercolor paper.

The white paper gives a light pastel shimmery effect. It is great for layering on other projects to add the most wonderful glimmer.

On black surfaces, the watercolors shift into the most vivid metallic finish! By shifting the paper in the sunlight, the colors shift and dance.

Each color I made is my favorite! I named them all and love painting with them.

Supplies Needed for Homemade Color Shift Watercolor:

affiliate links--continue shopping:

Gum Arabic (binding agent)
Color Shift Pigment Powder
Glass Cutting Board
Watercolor Half Pans (half pan size)
Metal Hinged Tins
Adhesive Magnets
Glass Muller
Palette Knife/Spatula
Honey (use vegetable glycerin to make it vegan watercolor handmade paint)
Clove Oil
Water (distilled water if you want)
Glass Bowl or Mason Jar for storage
White Watercolor Paper
Black Watercolor Paper

The supplies for making your own homemade watercolors adds up! From the mica pigments to pans and tins.

This is a rabbit hole of options...especially if you swing for the one gallon bucket of Gum Arabic, which is the more cost effective option in the long run.

Maybe you'll want to start your own watercolor making business for the full potential. I for sure don't, but I like to cover my costs with a few paint set sales.

You may have a need of more storage once you start making these gorgeous color shifting watercolors!

You can buy smaller sizes, minimum purchase of product, to just get started and then decide if you like it enough to buy bigger quantities.

Recipe at the end of the post!

Step 1: Watercolor Base

Begin by making the watercolor base. Fill a measuring cup with 1 cup of water...not hot water, but warm. Gradually stir in 1/2 cup of Gum Arabic.

Whisk it gently to mix in the clumps. Stir until the clumps are all mixed in. (Can strain through a cheesecloth if it's still lumpy, but I had no problem with clumps).

Then add 1/5 cup of honey and stir in until smooth. Add 6 drops of clove oil as a preservative and gives it a great scent!

Now the watercolor base is made. You can store it in the fridge up to 2 weeks, if you don't use it all in one sitting.

(Do not store at extreme temperatures)

Step 2: Watercolor Mixing

Now set up your workstation. You will want a big glass cutting board.

I'm only doing a tablespoon of pigment at a time so the glass cutting boards listing in the supplies list are what I use.

If you are going to mass produce them, you'll want much more space.

Scoop 1 tablespoon of pigment powder on the cutting board. See how it's purple with undertones of gold?

It's the color shift magic!

There are other kinds of watercolor medium additives you can add to the liquid base.

This quantity filled up 4 half pans of watercolor paint mixtures for the first mixing.

Then pour one tablespoon of watercolor base on the pigment, like gravy on mashed potatoes.

So one part pigment and one part of the liquid base mixture.

Then use the palette knife/spatula tool to gently mix the pigment with the base. You will see there are little powder chunks in the mixture.

I used this palette spatula from the dollar store and it snapped in half. You'll want a metal one for this amount of mixing.

Once mixed in, you likely need to add a little more watercolor base. The consistency should be like warm honey, thick but pourable.

This is where you will need the muller.

I am using a flat bottom shot glass...so check out the local thrift store for the perfect small glass that will work just as well.

Press the muller on the watercolor mixture and blend it around.

The glass on glass will make the powder burst into the base and not have any clumps when painting, this mixture is a great representation of the actual colors.

Now use the spatula to scoop up the mixed watercolor and pour it into the plastic pans.

Then set them aside for a couple weeks to dry.

Don't speed up the drying process with a dehydrator, it is better to let them dry naturally.

As they dry, the water evaporates, leaving a condensed piece of watercolor. But at this point, it only fills up about half of the container. Here's where the long process comes in.

Now repeat the mixing and filling and setting aside.

The filling process will most likely take 3-4 fills to keep a good height on the pans.

Mine are not perfect...there are air bubbles here and there.

After the watercolor is dry, they are ready to add a drop or 2 of much water and begin painting, lettering, calligraphy, watercolor art or just accenting.

I know some people use this as make up, for external use, but I have not painted this on my skin.

I love the shimmer of the metallic shift! Which color combo do you like best?

I named them all personally based on my trip to the Turks and Caicos islands, because that's something I love--I'm a tropical girl through and through!

Starting on the top row from left to right:

Ocean, Ice Crystal, Hibiscus, Caribbean, Orchid, Pearl, Coral, Lucky Dragon, Rose, Mermaid, Lilac, Pegasus, Gold, Pewter, Sea Witch, Copper, Pearl and Orchid...yes, there ended up being more orchid and pearl than other colors...arabian night is another great name!

I did 6 more colors too, and you'll see them here and there in the ones I am selling.

And here's how the 21 colors look on black and white paper together. My favorite watercolour paint color is Caribbean for sure!

Several of the colors have a fabulous gold shift!

Step 3: Packaging

After the paints dry they are ready for a strip of adhesive magnet placed on the base of the pan. This will keep them in the tin without shifting around.

Wrap the watercolor pans in wrapping paper if desired.

Now they are ready to gift, sell or just enjoy--paint all the things with stunning shifting watercolors!

There's a huge amount of accomplishment being able to make my own watercolors. It was a lot of time, patience waiting, and start up expense...but it was fun.

Do you think you'll try to make your own watercolors? If you do, please follow up and let me know! I'd love so see your paint on social media--just tag @doodlecraft so I can cheer you on!

I love the difference between using white or black paper--I think black paper turns out the best, it's classic and so shiny and shifty.

The pigments just shine on black paper.

Here's the watercolor base recipe:

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Here's a sample of the watercolor sets I sold in my Etsy shop last year, priced with free shipping (united states usd) of course:

This looks like a slightly interesting combo at first glance...but see the colors painted on black and white paper. There's a copper metallic, pearl that's perfect for snowy shimmer, gold shift and blue.

Have you tried making your own Watercolors?

Did this tutorial help you?

Here's some more Watercolor posts you might love!

How to Paint Cartoon Shoes (Custom Painted Shoe DIY)

2026-02-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

How to Paint Cartoon Shoes (Custom Painted Shoe DIY)

Learn how to paint Cartoon style shoes with Plaid KICKS Paint.

This custom painted shoe tutorial is easy to do and a great way to upcycle and give new life to old shoes.

Just a few supplies needed to make these fun stylized shoes that look like you stepped out of a comic book!

Truth be told, I've had these shoes and the paint for nearly a year now and kept putting these off.

I finished them up this past weekend and they only ended up taking less than 2 hours.

Now they are off my to-do list and I can wear them to the Farmer's Market all Summer!

COMIC BOOK SHOES:

If you watch cartoons or read comics, you'll notice the iconic black outlines all around the shoes with the white highlights.

The over-the-top bright colors and shapes makes these look like they are straight out of the cartoons.

HOW TO USE PLAID KICKS PAINT FOR SHOES:

I'm using Plaid Kicks Paint, it was designed primarily for shoes but can be used on leather purses, wallets, bags, and even faux leather, vinyl and similar kind items.

It's flexible and is supposed to wear nicely...the shoes I've painted in the past with Kicks have been great, no chipping or cracking.

Buy Kicks at Plaid Online, use code: DOODLECRAFT15 for 15% off your order!

I used blue, green, neon pink, neon yellow and neon orange.

(I mixed blue and green to make the teal)

I really love how these turned out...okay, enough pictures, let's get started!

SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR CARTOON PAINTED SHOES:

Shoes in need of upcycling (the more stitched pieces, the better)
Kicks Paint (in desired colors)
Kicks Paint Finish (I'm using High Gloss)
Multi-Surface Acrylic Paint (in Black and White)
Paintbrushes (flat and liner)

Remember if you buy from Plaid Online, use code: DOODLECRAFT15 for 15% off.

Step 1: Shoes

I bought a pair of shoes at Walmart just for this craft, hence the original tags.

If you have an old pair of sneakers in need of an uplift, use those for these custom shoes.

Lots of people like painting Nike Air and Converse, but any shoe will work--a high top would be awesome too!

Step 2: Paint

Now it is time to paint each section of the shoe a different color.

They don't all have to be different, be creative and paint with the leather paint whatever color you want your shoes to be.

The more bright colors, the more they will stand out--which is why I love handmade pieces.

To make this teal color, I mixed blue, green and white Kicks Paint.

I just really love this color and mixing is a great way to get more colors for less money.

Paint the desired sections and then let them dry.

The paint is lightweight and thin, so you'll need to do a second and possibly a third coat of paint.

Then move on to the next section of the shoe with a new (or the same color).

This time I'm using Neon Pink Kicks acrylic paint.

Again, it goes on thin, so let it dry for a little bit and add another coat of paint.

Paint every section of the shoe the color you desire, but leave the tongue of the shoe blank, this just makes it last longer in the long run...since tying those laces would rub it off over time.

Step 3: Black Outlines

Now use a fine liner or a script liner paintbrush to outline the shoe painted sections in black.

I'm using Multi-Surface paint for the black and white because it isn't as thin as the Kicks.

Some people opt for using an acrylic paint fine tip marker instead of paint and a brush, so options.

Outline around each part of the shoe, don't worry about being too precise, taking extraordinary care, staying straight or going over stitches...these are meant to be cartoonish, so hand drawn, wiggly lines are perfect.

The fine liner brush makes it easy to paint in long swipes but it can take a little practice and finesse, so if it's not coming easy, practice on paper or use a paint marker instead.

Step 4: White Highlights

Let the black paint dry completely before moving on to the white highlights.

Then add little lines, dashes and dots of white wherever you want around the shoe.

Don't add the highlights everywhere, but add a bunch of them.

Don't make all the highlights the same length, make it vary.

Add some white "scuff marks", "hashtag signs" and a star or two on the front of the shoe for added cartoonishness.

Step 5: High Gloss Finish

Finish off the shoes with a high gloss finish of the Kicks Paint.

It's easy to paint on, all over the painted surfaces of the shoes for a consistent glossy finish.

The gloss is another factor that just adds to the cartoon vibe.

A finish is a great way to get all the paint finishes to match and be uniform.

This is a great hack for any painting in general, since different colors may vary with their finishes just slightly.

Finally, let the shoes dry completely one last time.

Then the good news, they are ready to wear, show off and flaunt!

I am over the moon with how awesome they turned out!

I love the vibrant and bright colors with the whimsical, cartoony lines!

I know a few creative entrepreneurs that paint shoes and other unworn item accessories as a side hustle or small businesses for interested buyers.

Made-to-order items can be fun if you want to sell on the etsy app or other seller portal apps.

Just a few craft supplies needed for this creative goods masterpiece!

Imagine these with a full outfit--all painted in this cartoon fashion--that would be amazing!

Handmade items are the best!

That's it!

Paint a pair of sneakers to look like they are straight out of the cartoons or a comic book!

These fun shoes are easy to paint, a fun craft for multiple ages, and don't require a ton of supplies.

It's a great month to upcycle something in your closet and celebrate Earth Day with a sustainable craft.

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CHECK OUT THESE OTHER FUN SHOE UPCYCLES!

Upcycle Strappy Leather Sandals!

Using Hot Pink KICKS Paint from Plaid to update these sad dark red Dansko Wedges into a beautiful coral.

Video on Instagram

How to Paint Wingtip Shoes DIY

Wingtip shoes are the pinnacle of high society in the early 1900's and are perfect to bring back now with the roaring 20's vibe! Make your own wingtip shoes by painting a pair of heels with Plaid FX flexible paint.

Wingtips and spats were typically worn by men, but they are perfect for a classy and "vintage" touch now.

How to Make Disco Mirror Ball Shoes DIY Tutorial

Disco Mirror Ball! Ever been to a club, dance hall or school dance and just thought "I totally need a disco ball!"? No, just me?

Turns out that mirror tiles belong on everything from the dance floor to shoes!

It's easy to create some dance club worthy footwear using mirror tiles and the familiar swirl pattern of a disco mirror ball.

Make disco ball shoes easily with just a couple supplies and a lot of time--the perfect mirror mirror foot wear.

How to Paint Cake & Ice Cream Shoes!

These painted cake and ice cream shoes look good enough to eat!

Make a pair of cake and ice cream kicks to wear in delicious and show-stopping style!

These cool shoes are the perfect upcycled accessory!

Note: These take a while to paint. I let them dry between every single paint stage so I didn't accidently smudge them. It took me about a month to get them finished, but only about an hour of work time.

How to Rhinestone Shoes!

Make the most gorgeous rhinestone shoes with aurora borealis gemstones!

These stunning shoes are just what you need to wear to ring in the new year! I love wearing all kinds of sparkle--and New Year's Eve is the perfect excuse!

Just a couple hours and a pile of rhinestones is all it takes to take shoes from drab to fab!

Learn how to make rhinestone shoes for the perfect upgrade to a pair of shoes for a great value!

Rub 'N Buff European Gold Upcycled Ballet Flats DIY!

Do you ever find a great pair of shoes...but it's not a color you'd wear? Or do you have some shoes in the closet that are pretty worn out?

Or you need a great pair of shoes for a costume...but they need a new color? This is a great upcycled craft for making shoes last longer, work for a costume or be a color you'd wear! Using Rub 'N Buff to transform shoes into gold!

Upcycle old shoes and give them new life using Rub 'N Buff European Gold metallic wax. Great for Halloween costumes, cosplay, or just to add some metallic vintage treasures to your closet.

Perfect for a back-to-school refresh!

Turquoise Patina Rub N Buff Sandals Upcycle!

Upcycle some old sandals with turquoise patina Rub n Buff in just a few minutes.

Have you been going through your closets, cupboards and rooms in an effort to organize and consolidate?

I bet you have a few pair of shoes that could use an update, and at a low price for Rub n Buff it's a great way to create the latest version.

If you like the style, consider a color change!

Tie Dye Galaxy Canvas Shoes DIY!

Tie Dye the best Galaxy Shoes in a galaxy far, far away!

This is a great way to upcycle a pair of canvas shoes that might be a little worn--this will give these special goods new life!

Which painted or upcycled shoe is your favorite!?

Will you be painting cartoon shoes in the future?

Check out my facebook, pinterest, youtube, instagram and tiktok - make lots of crafts every day!

How to Make Glass Mosaic Art Easy Ideas for Beginners

2026-02-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

How to Make Glass Mosaic Art: Easy Ideas for Beginners

Learn how to make glass mosaic art easily at any skill level.

This fun and colorful craft is an easy DIY for beginners--perfect for Spring decor and National Craft Month!

Make brightly colored glass mosaic butterflies in an afternoon!

These little butterfly wood cut outs are small, just 3x4", so this is a project that won't take all day.

It's a great way to use scrap pieces of ceramic tiles or pieces of glass scrap.

If you love it, maybe you'll make your own tiles and do big mosaic wall murals on blank walls and fill them with bright colors!

SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR GLASS MOSAIC ART:

affiliate links

They also sell small packs of square glass mosaic pieces at Dollar Tree, so that's an option too, although I like the varied shapes in my mosaics.

STEP 1: PLAN THE MOSAIC

First step is decide on your mosaic ideas, the color scheme and the pieces you are working with.

If you have pieces of glass or tile that are too big for a selected area, you can use the tile cutters to cut them up.

Otherwise, find pieces that fit the shape as close as you can.

*NOTE: This is a fun craft for a wide range of ages and very little skill needed...however, these are small pieces, so avoid small children that can't keep things out of their mouth.

Sift through the glass pieces and find ones that match your vibe.

If you are using bits of broken glass, use caution to avoid cuts.

Place the pieces directly on the wooden cut out to get the most accurate plan of the mosaic shape.

Pick the focal point pieces, maybe a round glass gem.

STEP 2: GLUE THE CUSTOM MOSAIC

Now use the E6000 glue to adhere each little piece to the wood cut out.

This is an easy way to make sure everything stays put when we get to the grout.

Just a tiny dab of glue and press it down firmly on the wooden base.

It doesn't have to be too pretty at this point.

If it's squished out of the glass mosaic tile, it's fine, the grout will cover it next.

Get all the pieces put into place and then let the glue dry and cure, at least 4 hours.

I set my beautiful mosaics in my craft room overnight to let them dry and cure completely.

I love the glitter glass, the iridescent pieces and the gems!

It's so fun to use different materials to make this mosaic pattern shine!

Repeat the gluing process for all the mosaic tile art projects you are making.

The wood cut outs come in a pack of 12, so you have a lot to make--and you might as well while you have all the craft supplies out.

The easiest way for me to make these little mosaic butterflies was to pick a color and use those pieces.

If I tried to combine colors, it just didn't feel balanced to me, but I bet a child could make a random piece mosaic look amazing.

This technique would be easy to do on other flat surfaces too; picture frames, mosaic flower pots, candle holders and outdoor mosaics like on house numbers.

Finally I finished up the red and pink butterfly and got all the little pieces glued in place.

I did end up cutting a couple of tile pieces for this butterfly.

It was good to try, but not necessary...I could have just fit in different pieces.

They already look beautiful in the sunlight, bright colors and shiny!

I like the abstract design of the mosaics, even though they are also balanced.

STEP 3: TILE GROUT

Now adding the pre-mixed tile grout to these little mosaics takes it up a whole new level.

This process is a bit messy and takes 2 applications...it's helpful to have a paper towel or dry cloth on hand to wipe off when it gets messy.

Use a craft stick or plastic knife to spread some of the grout right on the surface of the tiles.

It's hard to really press the grout into all the cracks, so after getting a layer of grout on with the craft stick I used my fingers to really press it in all the places of the ceramic mosaic.

Repeat adding grout to each of the mosaics.

Use your finger to round the grout around all the edges of the wood cutout, so the top edge is smooth.

It's just like creamy frosting!

If you have done tile work or other diy mosaic projects before, this will feel familiar!

Use your finger to remove as much of the excess grout on the top of the tiles and put it back in the jar for another time.

STEP 4: WIPING

Now use a wet cellulose sponge to gently wipe the surface of the mosaic tile pieces.

Careful not to shove the sponge down hard or it will mess up the grout lines.

Just wipe, rinse and wipe again.

It's a lot of wiping off...and you can do some editing after the grout dried, but it's much easier to get it off now during this wet stage.

Use a clean section of the sponge every time you wipe.

When the sponge has no more clean surfaces, rinse it out in a bucket of water and start again.

If you work with a big bucket of water, the grout (cement) doesn't need to go down your sink drain.

Just rinse it in a bucket and dump the bucket in the back of the compost heap outside later.

This part of the process is a little finicky, so it's better if adults help children with this part.

Now set them in a room or a box to dry overnight.

After drying the grout had settled and air bubble sink holes had formed in places.

I just did a second application of the grout and then the wiping off and let them dry again.

This resolved any issues.

STEP 5: PAINT

After the mosaics are dry, it's time to spruce up the edges with some painting.

Because the grout is thick and a little messy, it can drip down the edges of the wood cutout leaving rough texture.

So, we'll mix our acrylic craft paint with a little baking soda to make a chalk paint and it will cover the grout perfectly.

Get a palette or a paper plate and pour a teaspoon of baking soda and a squirt of acrylic paint.

Mix them together with a paintbrush.

Then paint the edges of the mosaics wood cut out.

Use a baby wipe to remove any paint that ends up on the top surface of the grout as you go.

Baking soda with paint is a little gritty, but the coverage is awesome--it's fun to paint with this sort of egg shell textured chalk paint.

Then the final step is just letting the paint dry, which doesn't take too long!

Now you have dreamy mosaics ready to decorate the living room for Spring!

Little glass mosaic art makes a great handmade gift too, such a cute shelf sitter, addition to Spring mantle decor, an office cubicle and more!

I really love how these little mosaics turned out.

I'm not ready to jump right into mosaic murals, but this is a fun start!

It's probably no surprise that the blue butterfly mosaic is my favorite!

Which one is your favorite? The red and pinks, the green and yellows or the blues and purples?

That's it!

Learn how to make glass mosaic art, easy ideas for beginners creating mosaics.

These little butterflies are small enough to be a manageable project and big enough to be shiny and stunning!

How will you design your butterfly glass mosaics?

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CHECK OUT THESE FUN POSTS TOO!

How to Make Corelle Plate Necklace Jewelry DIY!

Learn how to transform vintage, chipped or cracked plates and dishes into wearable jewelry, necklace pendants and more.

Did you have Corelle Butterfly Gold plates? They launched in 1970 and I think everyone I knew growing up had them. This was our family plate pattern.

Make nostalgic jewelry with old dinner plates using lead-free solder, great for handmade gifts too!

How to Make Geode Glass Art (Plaid Fragment Effects)

Learn how to make a gorgeous geode glass wall hanging using Plaid's newest product, Fragment Effects.

This stained glass comes crushed and is great for various center stage uses in wall art, canvases, stained glass effects and resin.

Let me teach you all about how to use Plaid Fragment Effects, and walk you through a beautiful geode craft that can be completed by any skill level.

How to Make Fallout Stimpak Prop DIY Wasteland Craft

2026-02-20T06:00:00.360-05:00

How to Make Fallout Stimpak Prop DIY Wasteland Craft

(Fallout 76 Inspired DIY Weathered Prop Tutorial)

If you snagged the Dave’s Hot Chicken Fallout Meal toy and thought, “This is cute… but it needs more wasteland grime,” you’re in the right place.

FALLOUT MEAL PRIZE:

When Dave’s Hot Chicken released their limited-edition Fallout Stimpak toy, I knew immediately it had potential.

The shape was right. The details were there. But let’s be honest — straight out of the box, it looked like exactly what it was: a shiny plastic promo toy. And if you’re a Fallout fan like me, you know a Stimpak should look like it’s survived the Wasteland — worn metal, aged brass, darkened crevices, and just enough grime to tell a story.

So I decided to give this little freebie a full post-apocalyptic makeover and turn it into a realistic Fallout 76–inspired prop using a rotary tool, a little wire, and my favorite secret weapon: Rub ’n Buff.

The transformation is easier than you think — and the results are seriously satisfying.

Be sure to watch the video tutorial too!

Also, how cute is this power armor guy squeezing the rubber chicken!?

Today we’re transforming the Dave’s Hot Chicken Fallout Stimpak toy into a realistic, distressed, video game–inspired prop that looks straight out of Fallout 76.

This DIY prop makeover uses simple tools, flexible wire, and Rub ’n Buff metallic finishes to add authentic aging, depth, and post-apocalyptic character.

What Is a Stimpak in Fallout?

In the Fallout video game series, the Stimpak is an injectable healing item used to restore health. It has an industrial, retro-futuristic medical aesthetic — metal fittings, visible wires, analog gauges, and a glass vial filled with red fluid.

The Dave’s Hot Chicken promotional toy version is a great starting point — but it’s very clean and plastic-looking. With a few upgrades, we can make it look convincingly metallic and game-accurate.

This project is perfect for:

Fallout cosplay
Post-apocalyptic Halloween costumes
Display props
Game room decor
Fallout 76 fans
Upcycling plastic toys into realistic props

Let’s make it look like it survived the Wasteland...if you don't have the Dave's Hot Chicken Stimpak, you can easily find a plan and 3-D print one.

Supplies Needed for Distressing Stimpak Fallout Prop:

affiliate links

Base Prop

Dave’s Hot Chicken Fallout Stimpak toy (or a 3D printed stimpak)

Tools

Rotary hand tool (like a Dremel)
Tiny drill bit
Safety glasses
Paper towels
Cotton swabs

Materials

Flexible black-coated aluminum wire (2 small pieces)
Rub ’n Buff in:
- Gold
- Antique Copper
- Ebony
- Silver

Optional:

Gloves
Soft buffing cloth
Clear matte sealer

Fun Fact:

Dave's Hot Chicken is an hour away from my house, up in a college town.

I asked a friend who's attending college there to let me know when they were coming home.

Luckily it was just a week away.

I ordered the 2 of the Fallout meals (and a bunch of other food) online and she brought them to my door...and then we made her come inside and eat all the Dave's Hot Chicken with us.

It was the BEST reason to have a friend over!

Step 1: Study Fallout 76 Stimpak References

Before altering your toy, take a moment to study reference images from Fallout 76.

Notice the stimpak from any of the games:

The exposed curved side wires
Slightly worn metal crossbars
Darkened crevices
Metallic depth on edges
Subtle grime buildup
Shiny but aged finish

Accuracy is what makes this DIY prop believable.

Tips for Realistic Cosplay Prop Aging

To make any plastic prop look realistic:

Focus on edges and raised surfaces
Darken recesses
Mix metallic tones
Avoid solid color coverage
Study real worn metal objects

Distressed prop realism comes from imperfection--and imperfection is my middle name!

The syringe was sort of in the meal deal so you could slurp up the ranch dressing and squeeze it out onto your spicy chicken slider or tender.

We opted to NOT use the stimpak for ranch dressing!

Step 2: Drill Side Holes for the Wire Detail

Adding the curved, janky wires is the step that instantly upgrades the realism of this toy to stimpak.

Using your rotary hand tool with a tiny drill bit:

Drill small holes in the center sides of the pressure gauge meter face.
Drill matching holes into the crossbar edges.
Keep holes shallow and clean — don’t drill all the way through.
Wear safety glasses.

These holes will hold your decorative curved wire, mimicking the Fallout game design.

Pro Tip: Go slow. Plastic melts easily under friction. Let the tool do the work.

Step 3: Add the Curved Wire Detail

Cut two small pieces of flexible black-coated aluminum wire, or any wire you have on hand.

Gently curve each piece into a soft arc.
Insert each end into the drilled holes.
Adjust curvature until it matches your game reference.

This small detail completely changes the silhouette of the toy and makes it feel less like a mass-produced plastic item and more like a hand-assembled medical device from the Wasteland.

If needed, add a tiny drop of glue inside the holes — but friction-fit often works fine.

Step 4: Cut Needle Angle

Switch out the bit on the rotary tool from the drill to the cutting disk.

Hold the stimpak steady and cut the end of the syringe at an angle, making a "sharp" needlelike point on the end of the stimpak...ready for quick deployment.

Step 5: Glue

Add drops of glue (Bearly Art Precision Glue or Super Glue) on all the junctions of wire and plastic stimpak.

Just a tiny bit, so it's not goopy, but it helps hold those wires in place.

Step 6: Begin the Weathering Process with Rub ’n Buff

Now the magic happens.

Rub ’n Buff is a wax-based metallic finish that creates a realistic metal effect over plastic. It’s perfect for cosplay prop aging and distressing.

We’re layering multiple colors for depth:

Gold
Antique Copper
Silver
Ebony (for grime and shadow)

How to Apply Rub ’n Buff:

Squeeze a tiny amount onto your finger, gloved finger or paper towel.
Rub lightly onto raised areas.
Buff immediately with a clean paper towel.
Build up in layers.

Less is more. You can always add more but a little goes a long way.

Step 7: Layer Metallic Depth

Start with Gold or Antique Copper.

Lightly apply across:

Crossbars
Meter housing
Syringe body
Textured grips

Buff until smooth and slightly shiny.

Step 8: Add Ebony for Grime and Wasteland Aging

Now it’s time to dirty it up.

Use Ebony Rub ’n Buff sparingly:

Around crevices
Near drilled holes
Around crossbar edges
Around the meter rim

Buff lightly so it settles into recesses but doesn’t dominate.

This step gives the prop that Fallout 76 post-apocalyptic realism.

Be sure to gently add some Rub n Buff to the wires, and wipe them with the paper towel too.

Then add Silver to:

Edges
Corners
Raised details

This layering technique creates the illusion of worn metal where surfaces would naturally be touched or scraped.

Distress the pressure gauge face a little bit, and wipe with a baby wipe or damp paper towel, so it's not over bearing...but slightly distressed.

Step 9: Protect the Red Syringe Line

The red vial detail is iconic. Keep it clean.

If metallic wax gets onto the red center line:

Use a cotton swab
Gently wipe away excess
Clean before the wax fully cures

Maintaining that pop of red adds contrast and authenticity.

Step 10: Final Buffing for Realism

After all layers are applied:

Buff the entire prop with a clean paper towel
Focus on raised metallic areas
Blend transitions

The goal: slightly shiny, worn metal — not glittery or painted.

The more you buff, the more realistic it looks.

Optional: Seal Your Fallout Stimpak Prop

If you plan to use this for cosplay or conventions:

Apply a light matte clear coat
Spray in thin layers
Allow to dry fully

This protects the finish while maintaining realism.

I could have gone a bit darker on mine, but I do like the gold shine.

Why This Method Works

Instead of spray painting (which can look flat), Rub ’n Buff:

Creates natural metallic highlights
Allows controlled layering
Adds instant depth
Feels like aged brass and steel
Doesn’t obscure molded detail

It’s one of the best techniques for DIY prop weathering.

Before and After Transformation

This toy starts as a smooth, shiny plastic piece.

After distressing:

It looks metallic
It has depth
It resembles Fallout 76 game art
It feels custom-built

Upcycling promotional toys into realistic game props is such a satisfying DIY niche — and this one is especially fun for Fallout fans.

That's it!

This project is proof that you don’t need expensive materials or complicated builds to create an authentic-looking cosplay prop.

With just a few small modifications and layered metallic finishes, a fast food promotional toy can become a display-worthy Fallout Stimpak that looks like it came straight out of Vault-Tec’s supply closet.

I love how the added wire detail and weathered metal tones completely change the feel of this piece — it’s gritty, dimensional, and perfectly imperfect.

Whether you’re adding it to a Fallout costume, decorating a game room, or just geeking out over a clever upcycle, this little Wasteland makeover is such a fun way to level up a simple toy into something epic.

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CHECK OUT THESE OTHER WASTELAND INSPIRED CRAFTS!

How to Make Nuka Cola LED Sign (Fallout Craft DIY)

If you’re a fan of the Fallout series or games, then you already know one thing for sure — the Nuka Cola logo deserves to glow.

There’s something about vintage-style neon signs that fits perfectly with that retro-futuristic Fallout aesthetic.

Nuka-Cola Rocket Bottle

New machines are always so much fun--a 3D printed Nuka Cola Bottle is the number one reason to get a 3D printer!
Any fan of the Fallout video game series will immediately recognize the iconic Nuka Cola Rocket Bottle!
Make the perfect prop for your Fallout themed party, Man Cave, She-Shed, Video Game themed home decor, or cosplay prop--the classic Nuka Cola Rocket Bottle!
Make your home wasteland approved with this rocket bottle prop!

Metal Sublimation Prints!

Hey there fellow Vault Dwellers--dig up your favorite video game screenshot and turn it into home decor or wall art!
Let me show you how to turn your favorite Fallout 76 moments into unique home decor aluminum photo panels.
Using sublimation metal sheets, a screenshot from the Mothman Museum in Fallout 76, a sublimation printer and a heat press we'll bring the post-apocalyptic vibes right into your space!
Sublimation prints on metal are awesome for home decor or handmade pieces for gifts!

How to Make a Fallout Gift Basket (DIY Craft Ideas)

Happy Fallout Day! #thedaythebombsfell

Canonically the bombs in the Fallout universe fell on October 23rd, so it's a day to remember...not necessarily celebrate...but let's craft today!

I'm making a fun Fallout gift basket, similar to the basket that Bridie gives to Maximus in the Amazon Prime Fallout series, season one.

Follow me on Instagram and Tiktok - make craft tutorials daily!

How to Make Nuka Quantum Frame (Jones Soda Craft DIY)

2026-02-18T06:00:00.253-05:00

How to Make Nuka Quantum Frame (Jones Soda Craft DIY)

I turned a Jones Soda Nuka Cola Quantum label into the ultimate Fallout-inspired display frame 💜💙

The rhinestones? Totally giving fizzy soda bubbles and I’m obsessed.

NUKA COLA QUANTUM:

When a real-world soda release meets one of the most iconic fictional food brands in gaming history, you know it’s crafting time.

To celebrate the recent Nuka Cola Quantum soda release (the Jones Soda version available at Costco for the Fallout series launch), I created a custom blinged-out frame inspired by the bold purple and blue packaging.

This DIY is perfect for fallout fans who want to display their favorite in-game memories in true Nuka style.

Be sure to watch the VIDEO tutorial too!

Painted the frame that perfect retro purple, added hand-drawn stars, sealed on the label details with Mod Podge, and then made tiny “almost glowing” mini bottles using clear resin + mica powder under a UV light.

Supplies You’ll Need for Nuka Quantum Frame DIY:

affiliate links

Square scalloped edge picture frame (Plaid's Martha Stewart line)
Light purple acrylic paint
Jones Soda Nuka Cola Quantum bottle label (or get the Costco Box Edition)
Acrylic paint markers (orange + coordinating colors)
Matte Mod Podge
Clear resin (UV resin works great)
Mica powder (blue/iridescent tones)
Small soda bottle resin mold (Mine's unavailable but this one is similar)
UV lamp or UV light
Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue
Small blue rhinestones
Printed Fallout 76 photo
Hot Glue/Gun

Step 1: Paint the Frame Base

Start with a square scalloped edge frame. I chose one with soft curves to mimic the playful retro look of the Nuka-Cola Quantum branding.

Paint the entire frame a light purple shade. Let it dry completely before moving on. The soft purple base sets the tone and mirrors the packaging aesthetic perfectly.

Step 2: Salvage the Label Details

Carefully remove the label from your Jones Soda Nuka Cola Quantum bottle. Since this soda was created to celebrate the Fallout series, the label artwork is bold, colorful, and full of usable design elements.

While cutting the label, be sure to keep any useable pieces:

The Nuka Cola Quantum logo
Any accent graphics (Saturn, stars, etc)
Small brand details you want to highlight

This is such a fun way to repurpose packaging from a fictional food product brought to life.

Step 3: Add Hand-Painted Details

Using acrylic paint markers, draw two thin horizontal lines across the bottom of the frame, similar to the stripe detail on the Nuka-Cola Quantum packaging.

Next, add small stars scattered around the frame. The packaging has that retro atomic, space-age vibe, so don’t be shy here. Keep them playful and slightly imperfect for that handmade charm.

Let everything dry fully before sealing.

Use a violet acrylic marker to roughly outline the scallops of the frame to give it some added details.

Step 4: Adhere the Labels

Use matte Mod Podge to attach the Fallout logo elements and Nuka-Cola Quantum cutouts to the frame.

Originally I was going to use Crystal Clear Mod Podge, but decided against the shine, so I switched mid video to the Matte Mod Podge.

Brush a thin layer on the back of each piece, press into place, and smooth out any bubbles. Once positioned, seal over the top with another light coat of Mod Podge to protect everything.

Allow this layer to dry completely before adding embellishments.

Step 5: Make Mini Nuka Quantum Bottles with Resin

This is the best part.

These little bottles add so much to the quantum vibe.

Using a small soda bottle resin mold, use a small paintbrush to add a small amount of blue mica powder right into the mold.

Then squeeze the UV resin into the mold, right on top of the mica powder, and cure it under a UV light or UV lamp until fully hardened.

The translucent blue resin bottles look like tiny glowing versions of Nuka Cola Quantum — almost like they could give you +20 HP and a mild radiation boost.

The bottles look great and pretty "quantumy" as is...but we can take this one step further.

Once cured, cut small pieces of the remaining label and glue them onto the resin bottles to complete the look.

Now they really look just like mini Jones Soda Nuka Quantum Bottles!

Perfect for all kinds of wasteland embellishments, like cards, scrapbooks, frames, pin back flair, jewelry like earrings and much more!

Step 6: Attach the Resin Bottles

Use Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue to secure the mini resin bottles around the frame.

Space them sort of "evenly" around the scalloped edges to create dimension and movement. This gives the frame a layered, almost 3D effect.

Be sure to hot glue the bottle cap on the frame too!

Step 7: Add Rhinestone “Bubbles”

To finish the design, glue small blue rhinestones across the frame.

Scatter them randomly so they resemble soda bubbles floating around the design. This adds sparkle and ties into the fizzy Nuka-Cola Quantum aesthetic.

Let everything dry thoroughly before handling.

Oooh, I love it!

The blue sparkles, the glowing bottles and the logos.

This fun frame is perfection!

Step 8: Add Your Fallout Photo

I printed a picture of my Fallout 76 character standing at Nuka World on Tour next to the giant Nuka Quantum bottle — the perfect match for this frame.

Insert your photo and enjoy your custom fallout fans display piece.

A Quick Note About Brand Usage & Sharing

When working with branded packaging or imagery, it’s always important to respect trademark guidelines and legal notices associated with those brands. This project is a personal craft inspired by a licensed soda release and Bethesda.

If you share your project online, review the platform’s privacy policy and privacy statement to understand how your images are used. Adjust your privacy settings accordingly before uploading.

And remember, this is a fan-made craft celebrating a fictional food from a beloved game universe — not an official product.

This Nuka-Cola Quantum inspired frame combines:

Real-world soda packaging
Hand-painted details
UV resin embellishments
Sparkly “bubble” accents

It’s bold, nerdy, and completely over-the-top in the best way.

If you’re a Fallout fan, this is such a fun way to preserve a special gaming memory — especially if you’ve visited Nuka World on Tour in Fallout 76.

Now excuse me while I go collect bottle caps and decorate the rest of my craft room like a post-apocalyptic soda shrine. 💜✨

That's it!

This Nuka-Cola Quantum frame is colorful, nostalgic, and just a little bit extra — which honestly feels perfectly on-brand.

Between the shimmering clear resin bottles, the scattered “bubble” rhinestones, and that bold packaging artwork, it captures the playful chaos Fallout fans love.

Whether you’re framing your Fallout 76 adventures or just showing off your love for nuka cola quantum, this project proves you don’t need radioactive materials to make something glow… just a little creativity and a UV light.

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CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AWESOME FALLOUT CRAFTS!

Fallout Themed Upcycled Denim Jacket

The first steps for making an upcycled denim jacket is to thrift or find a great jacket.
Then fill it with DTF Transfers, vinyl, flocked vinyl or pins and flair.
In the world of fashion, where creativity knows no bounds, the fusion of gaming culture and street style has become a unique trend.
If you're a Fallout video game enthusiast, you'll love the idea of incorporating the iconic imagery from the wastelands into your wardrobe.

Vault 76 High Vis Running Shirt

Make a high visibility running shirt for a little hack light light in the night.
Customize it with your favorite silhouette design.
I'm featuring the Fallout Vault-Tec logo on the front and the Vault 76 logo on the back...would you say that it looks radioactive? 😆😆😆

Fallout themed Shirts

Making a Fallout themed t-shirt is a must for any Fallout fan!
I did two using DTF transfers and one with iron-on vinyl--next time I'll use glitter glitter vinyl!
Hey Vault Dwellers--Let's make all the Fallout themed shirts for the ultimate in geek chic apparel!
I'm showing how to make 3 shirts: Atom Cats, Vault boy and Vault-Tec--which is your favorite?

Make Magnets with Cricut

Magnet making is awesome and is a great addition to any fridge or tool box.
Having a Cricut is craft gold gold.

Nuka Cola Bottle Cap Decor

The real lucky lucky charms of the Fallout gaming universe is the Nuka Cola bottle cap.
Make a giant bottle cap as decor for the home, gaming room, man cave or she bunker!
I was strolling through the dollar store the other day and found this metal bottle cap hanger...I knew immediately that I had to make a Nuka Cola label for it.
It goes great with all my Fallout themed decorations--and would make a great gift for a Fallout gamer fan!

Nuka-Cola HTV Hat

Make the perfect Fallout themed Nuka Cola logo hat with iridescent iron on vinyl and a hat heat press.
Decorating hats has never been easier!
Learn how to make a custom hat with the Nuka-Cola logo to show your fallout pride!
With the HTVRONT Hat Heat Press Machine and some Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV), you can create personalized hats that reflect your unique style and personality.
Here's the steps to make your very own custom hat project that will turn heads (of Vault Dwellers) wherever you go!

Fallout Merch with Sublimation!

Making more shirts and totes using sublimation printer.
It's no secret that official Bethesda Fallout merchandise has been a little scarce...so I create my own shirts and totes to wear and flaunt my love of the series.
Learn how to make your own sublimation shirts using a sublimation printer and polyester blanks.
Design your own merch, make shirts with your favorite images or photographs, perfect for handmade gifts or just for fun!

How to make a Vault-Tec Lunchbox with Sublimation Printing

This lunchbox was easy to make and so fun to have as home decor!

Lunchboxes on Fallout are icon and a fun item to find or buy during gameplay.

They picture a line up of people going into the vault with a Vault Boy in the bottom corner.

The edges of the lunchbox are typically decorated with Vault Boy in various perk poses...but I'm keeping this one simple.

Follow me on Instagram and TikTok - make craft tutorials daily!

How to Make Nuka Cola LED Sign (Fallout Craft DIY)

2026-02-16T06:00:00.190-05:00

How to Make Nuka Cola LED Sign (Fallout Craft DIY)

If you’re a fan of the Fallout series or games, then you already know one thing for sure — the Nuka Cola logo deserves to glow.

There’s something about vintage-style neon signs that fits perfectly with that retro-futuristic Fallout aesthetic.

Instead of working with real glass neon (and the wiring stress that comes with it), I made an easy faux neon version using a battery-operated LED sign blank and my xTool S1 diode laser.

The result? A glowing Nuka Cola sign, worthy of Nuka Girl, that any fallout wastelander would proudly hang in their vault.

Be sure to check out the video tutorial too!

Supplies You’ll Need for Nuka Cola LED Sign:

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Round scalloped LED sign blank (Walmart--I can't find these on their website anymore)
Plaid’s Martha Stewart Acrylic Craft Paint (Satin Finish – Red)
Baby wipes
xTool S1 diode laser
White acrylic sheet with black core
Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue
Nuka Cola logo file sized to fit your sign (FREE FILE AT END OF POST)

OPTIONAL:

You could make the logo with a Cricut Machine and White Adhesive Vinyl instead of acrylic.

Step 1: Paint the Sign Base

Start by removing any protective film from your LED sign blank.

Paint the entire face of the sign red using Martha Stewart satin acrylic craft paint.

The satin finish gives a smooth surface and allows the light to glow beautifully once turned on.

While the paint is still wet, use a baby wipe to carefully remove any paint that gets onto the LED strip.

This keeps the light bright and crisp.

Allow the paint to dry completely before adhering the vinyl or acrylic.

Set it aside and work on the logo next.

Step 2: Cutting White Acrylic with a Diode Laser

Here’s the trick that makes this project work. **LIFE HACK**

Most diode lasers can’t cut white acrylic because they don’t react well with light-colored materials.

To solve that, I used white acrylic with a black core.

Since diode lasers cut dark materials effectively, this allows for a smooth and clean cut.

Upload your Nuka Cola logo into your laser software, size it appropriately, and cut the design from the acrylic sheet.

The result is a crisp logo with sharp edges and a professional finish.

Step 3: Use the Negative Space as a Stencil

Don’t throw away the leftover acrylic sheet after cutting.

The negative space from your cutout is the secret to perfect alignment.

Lay the acrylic sheet over your painted sign. It acts like a stencil, showing you exactly where the logo should sit.

Apply Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue to the backside of your acrylic logo. Carefully drop the logo into the open space of the stencil. This ensures perfect placement every time.

CRICUT AND VINYL USERS:

If you are using a Cricut Machine and Vinyl, be sure to weed the vinyl.
Place transfer sheet over the top and remove the backing.
Then press the vinyl down right in the center of the wood blank.
Remove the transfer sheet for the perfect Nuka logo.

Using the cut out shape is the best way to ensure the letters and shapes get placed perfectly.

Otherwise the logo will look a little bit wonky.

Once the shapes are glued down, gently remove the leftover acrylic “waste” sheet to reveal your perfectly aligned Nuka Cola logo.

Step 4: Turn the LIGHT On

After the glue has dried completely, insert the batteries and flip the switch.

Your faux neon sign now glows like a classic piece of retro signage — no glass tubes, no electrical wiring, and no complicated handling fees like you might encounter when ordering custom neon signs.

Vault Decor Styling Ideas

This faux neon Nuka Cola sign fits perfectly in:

A Fallout-themed gaming setup
A retro-inspired office or craft room
A shelf display with soda memorabilia
A streaming or TikTok backdrop — make your content glow
Add clock hardware to make it a Nuka Cola Clock

It adds that perfect pop of post-apocalyptic nostalgia to any room of the house!

That's it!

This project is simple, affordable, and completely customizable. Using a diode laser with black-core acrylic is a great workaround for cutting white designs cleanly.

If you love the best Fallout games and retro décor, this glowing Nuka Cola sign is such a fun addition to your space.

And honestly? It looks like something you’d find lighting up a settlement in the wasteland.

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A Quick Note About Fallout Files:

Click here to download the Nuka Cola logo file (and all my wasteland freebies) from Google Drive.

There will be no physical product sent, no order confirmation, handling fees, shipping address, order number, tracking number, new address or phone number needed, etc.

All images and logos are property of the Fallout franchise and Bethesda.

I've just collected them in one place for PERSONAL USE only.

Your email address will be added to my mailing list for the best Fallout games themed craft tutorials.

CHECK OUT THESE OTHER FUN FALLOUT CRAFTS!

Nuka Cola Bottle Cap Earrings Fallout DIY Caps Craft

Bring a little Wasteland charm into your everyday style with these bottle cap earrings!

Fallout fans know the power of bottle caps, and now you can wear them as fun accessories that show off your love of the game.

How to Press Fallout DTF Transfer on Drawstring Bag

Make the perfect Fallout inspired Bottle and Cappy Drawstring Bag with a DTF transfer and a heat press!

How to Make Fallout Wasteland Warrior Scrap Frame DIY

Craft your own post-apocalyptic frame wall art using plaster, Mod Podge, and Fallout flair!

Create your very own piece of post-apocalyptic wasteland art!

Learn how to easily make a Fallout-themed frame using a base of wet plaster and filling it with found junk item finds like bottle caps, bobby pins, chains, bullet casings, ultracite and more.

How to Make Slate Coasters with Laser Engraving xTool

Laser engraving slate is one of the most satisfying projects you can make with the xTool S1.

Slate engraves cleanly, contrasts beautifully, and makes even simple designs look high-end.

How to Make Fallout Miniature Vault Door Ornament DIY

A Laser-Cut, Hand-Painted, Distressed, Post-Apocalyptic Fallout inspired Craft Project with Free Files Included at the end of post!

Metal Sublimation Prints!

Hey there fellow Vault Dwellers--dig up your favorite video game screenshot and turn it into home decor or wall art!
Let me show you how to turn your favorite Fallout 76 moments into unique home decor aluminum photo panels.
Using sublimation metal sheets, a screenshot from the Mothman Museum in Fallout 76, a sublimation printer and a heat press we'll bring the post-apocalyptic vibes right into your space!
Sublimation prints on metal are awesome for home decor or handmade pieces for gifts!

How to Make a Fallout Gift Basket (DIY Craft Ideas)

Happy Fallout Day! #thedaythebombsfell

Canonically the bombs in the Fallout universe fell on October 23rd, so it's a day to remember...not necessarily celebrate...but let's craft today!

I'm making a fun Fallout gift basket, similar to the basket that Bridie gives to Maximus in the Amazon Prime Fallout series, season one.

Faux Leather Sublimation Keychains

These faux leather sublimation keychains feel substantial and would make a great gift...print anything on them...anything from the little mermaid to these fun Bottle and Cappy icons!
Hey Vault-Dwelling crafty Fallout fans!
If you're looking to add a touch of post-apocalyptic flair to your accessories--this is it!
In this step-by-step tutorial, you'll learn how to create awesome sublimation faux leather keychains featuring the lovable duo from Fallout 4's Nuka World – Bottle and Cappy.
Get ready to turn your humble crafting space into a mini Nuka World paradise!

Nuka-Cola Rocket Bottle

New machines are always so much fun--a 3D printed Nuka Cola Bottle is the number one reason to get a 3D printer!
Any fan of the Fallout video game series will immediately recognize the iconic Nuka Cola Rocket Bottle!
Make the perfect prop for your Fallout themed party, Man Cave, She-Shed, Video Game themed home decor, or cosplay prop--the classic Nuka Cola Rocket Bottle!
Make your home wasteland approved with this rocket bottle prop!

How to Make Ultracite Necklace (FO76 DIY Jewelry)

Learn how to carry a bit of the toxic wasteland with you wherever you go with these Ultracite crystal necklaces.

This fun DIY combines my love of Fallout 76 and a quick craft.

Make one for each of your Fallout loving friends...or anyone, really these crystal necklaces are perfect for anyone that likes a fun necklace.

Nuka Quantum Resin Keychain

Nuka Quantum sounds like something you'd be drinking while playing with 8-sided polyhedral dice!
This keychain looks just like keys scattered around Appalachia in Fallout 76 and is a fun prop to leave laying around the house. IYKYK.
Crafting the Apocalypse has become my newest obsession--I'm thinking of new Fallout crafts to make every day.
Hopefully there's other Fallout nerds out there to appreciate these--or at least this can give you an idea on how to cast an object in mold making resin and duplicating it in resin.
Let's make a DIY Fallout 76 Nuka Quantum Resin Keychain!

Follow me on Instagram and TikTok - make craft tutorials daily!

Vintage Miniature Display Village (Mini 3D Stores)

2026-02-13T06:00:00.292-05:00

Vintage Miniature Display Village (Mini 3D Stores)

There are some things we inherit that aren’t jewelry or furniture or recipes. They’re smaller than that. Quieter. They sit in the palm of your hand and somehow hold an entire world.

My mom built worlds.

Back in the 1970s and 80s—long before miniature collections were trending on social media—she was carefully crafting 1:12 scale shops and scenes that lived on our mantle like a tiny, handmade Christmas village. After she passed when I was sixteen, those little worlds felt even more precious. They weren’t just miniature collectibles. They were time capsules.

Today, as miniatures come roaring back into the crafting spotlight, I want to share hers.

MINIATURE FRONT PORCH:

She built a tiny front porch with clapboard siding and a little mailbox mounted beside the door. The scale was exact — 1:12 — but the feeling was enormous.

Inspired by Anne of Green Gables, she sculpted Anne herself, Matthew Cuthbert, Marilla, and even a few neighbors out of polymer clay, cloth, and delicate wire armatures.

Nothing was powered. No hidden lights, no power supply tucked behind a wall.

Just craftsmanship. Texture. Paint. Patience.

Anne’s braids were so fine they looked wind-tossed.

Matthew’s shoulders curved gently forward--he ended up wearing denim overalls and working at the Product shop.
Marilla’s posture was unmistakably practical.

Mrs. Rachel Lynde, the neighbor, known for her gossip and nosiness.

MINIATURE BAKERY:

The bakery felt like it should smell like sugar.

Behind a tiny counter sat a miniature display case filled with pastries. And there, proudly centered, was a three-tiered wedding cake — piped in icing roses so fine you needed to lean in close to see it.

The cake alone could rival today’s best selling miniature collectibles online. But this one wasn’t mass produced. It wasn’t part of eligible products or a limited edition display case drop.

It was sculpted by hand at our kitchen table.

The bakery looks inviting.
A couple of the cakes were made from old soda bottle caps, see that pale yellow cake and the white one next to it? Vintage caps.

I love those little cinnamon rolls too.
Everything looks so yummy...and that little doll on the counter is teensy and amazing.

I spy with my little eye:

Clown birthday cake
Buttermints--perfect for a baby shower
3 tiered Wedding cake
Lemon Meringue Pie
Chocolate cream pie
Apple Pie
Sheet cakes
Dinner rolls
Loaf of bread

The adhesive my mom used on the cake has yellowed in the 40 years, but it still looks amazing with all the little rosettes and the pearl accents...honestly, a trending cake for today!

The miniatures display cases at the bakery are fun to stare at for hours. I love all the attention to detail.

I would definitely pick up one of the chocolate donut bars on the bottom shelf...how about you?

Dolls aren't my thing when it comes to miniature builds, but I love to see the absolute tiny details in these little 5 inch tall dolls.

They are posable, with a delicate wire frame, cloth and polymer clay.

MINIATURE TOY SHOP:

This shop was joy in architectural form, and probably everyone's absolute favorite--TINY TOYS FOR TOTS!

Tiny action figures lined shelves. A red-and-clear acrylic gumball machine stood by the door. Board games the perfect size for a doll’s hands stacked along the walls.

It had that old-fashioned, eye-catching display quality you only get when someone builds for love, not for inventory turnover.

Little miniature Cabbage Patch Dolls! I remember being 5 or 6 and watching my mom painstakingly sew these tiny dolls that I was told I could not play with.

And behind the counter? A shopkeeper who looked suspiciously like Mrs. Claus — red dress, white apron, warm expression, soft white hair.

Jack-in-the-box toys, board games, books, stuffed animals, teddy bears, a clown, croquet set, dollhouse, baskets, crayons, fairy tale toys and much more!

MINIATURE SUNROOM GARDEN PORCH:

The sunroom was pure serenity in 1:12 scale.

Two walls, for this corner build, of imagined windows framed a space filled with miniature plants — tiny terra cotta pots, leafy greens carefully shaped and painted, delicate stems that looked like they were stretching toward invisible sunlight. Some were perched on small stands, others clustered on the floor like a carefully tended indoor garden...and a full macrame hanging plant too!

On the top shelf sat a set of miniature gardening tools — a trowel and digger — all arranged neatly as if someone had just stepped away mid-task. No power supply, no artificial lighting. The warmth of the scene came entirely from color, texture, and thoughtful placement.

And then there was the little wicker chairs.

You could almost picture a tiny open book resting on the arm, waiting to be picked back up. It was the perfect size for a quiet pause, a cup of tea, a moment of stillness.

Of all the shops and rooms, the sunroom feels like the heart — a gentle reminder that even in a bustling miniature village, there’s space carved out for rest.

My favorite element, were those little working scissors or pruners hung on the shelf rack next to the door...I'd often sneak my little fingers in this house and take the scissors out, opening and closing them in miniature awe.

A small embroidery hoop resting beside a cushioned chair. Fabric textures chosen with care. The stitching visible even at 1:12 scale.

MINIATURE FABRIC/TAILOR SHOP: THE NEEDLE AND I

The tailor shop was elegant.

Bolts of fabric lined the walls. A dress form stood front and center wearing a high-fashion gown — structured, dramatic, carefully sewn. You could almost imagine tiny scissors and chalk resting just out of view.

This one felt like it belonged in a wall display case, spotlighted (without actual lighting) simply by thoughtful placement and a neutral background.

The sign out front boasts "The Needle and I"

Inside the shop is a mini cross-stitch that reads "A stitch in time saves nine"

And that floral wallpaper is just the icing on the cake.

Fancy hats, buttons, zippers and notions...lots of skeins of yarn, all the perfect 1:12 scale, they make my heart sing.

MINIATURE SITTING ROOM:

This sitting room is domestic suburban life in miniature form.

A coffee table with tiny sandwiches, charcuterie, deviled eggs, salad and flowers arranged neatly on a plate. Plus those amber tinted glasses are vintage to the core!

It wasn’t flashy, but the size made it spectacular.
The tiny floral print wallpaper, the pleated curtains, the floral wingback chair, the lace rug, that tole painted serving tray and the curio cabinet, all were perfection.

MINIATURE NURSERY BEDROOM:

The nursery may have been the most tender of all.

A tiny crocheted dress hung carefully nearby. Soft colors. Gentle textures. Everything scaled perfectly, everything lovingly placed.

It felt hopeful.

Look at the animal mobile over the crib, the patchwork quilt, dance dress and little crocheted dress on the rocking chair.

MINIATURE PRODUCE STAND:

A tiny man in overalls stood proudly behind crates of pumpkins, corn, and vegetables. There were even miniature paper bags folded by hand.

The colors were warm and harvest-rich. It felt like late September in physical form.

The details here were what made her work so special. Nothing felt rushed. Every object had weight and intention.

Corn, seeds, apples, pumpkins, sacks of grain and so many little tiny details for this produce stand.

How She Displayed Them (And How I Would Today)

Growing up, these shops lined our mantle in winter like a handmade holiday village. Later, she arranged them along the floor of the banister of our split-level home so guests could see them at eye level — an early understanding of tiered displays before that phrase was ever trending.

Today, with miniature collections having such a resurgence, there are so many perfect display solutions that could honor pieces like these:

Clear acrylic display cases to protect from dust while keeping an eye-catching display.
Custom display cases built to the perfect size for each scene.
A wall display case with themed backgrounds to create depth.
Shadow box frames for individual shops.
A limited edition display case style arrangement for special holiday setups.
Acrylic display cases stacked in tiered displays for visual storytelling.
Even a simple IKEA Kallax unit fitted with foam tray inserts for stability and modular arrangement.

The best ways to display miniature collectibles now combine preservation and presentation. Clear acrylic keeps details visible. Themed backgrounds add narrative context. A perfect display case elevates them from hobby to heirloom.

What makes these different from modern action figures or collectible sets is that they were never intended for resale. They weren’t part of a catalog or marked as eligible products. They were handmade worlds, built with no expectation of an audience beyond family and friends.

They didn’t need a power supply to glow.

They glowed anyway.

That's it!

Miniatures are trending again — and I love that. But long before they were best selling craft kits or featured in custom display cases online, my mom was quietly building stories in 1:12 scale.

And every time I look at them, I’m six again, standing at the banister, watching guests lean in close.

Tiny worlds.

Endless love.

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CHECK OUT THESE AMAZING AND FUN MINIATURE CRAFTS (made by me) TOO!

How to Make Miniature Books with Mini Book Pages DIY

Learn how to make miniature books with real pages in this simple tutorial.

Just a few supplies are needed to make 1:12 scale dollhouse books; great for a mini book shelf, a book tracker, jewelry and more!

Turn your favorite reads into the cutest tiny mini books, great for the most adorable hand-made gifts!

How to Make Mini Canvas Easel Art (Miniature Artwork)

Tiny art lovers, this one’s for you!

Mini paintings on miniature easels are proof that beautiful artwork doesn’t need a big footprint to make a strong presence.

These 1:12th scale pieces are quick to make, endlessly customizable, and absolutely charming—perfect for decorating a small space or adding a pop of creativity anywhere you need it.

How to Make Miniature Wax Seal with Mini Envelopes

There is something undeniably magical about mini things.

When everyday objects are recreated at a tiny scale, they instantly feel more whimsical, more precious, and honestly… more fun.

How to Make Fallout Miniature Vault Door Ornament DIY

A Laser-Cut, Hand-Painted, Distressed, Post-Apocalyptic Fallout inspired Craft Project with Free Files Included at the end of post!

How to Make Walnut Mushrooms Christmas Ornament DIY

Learn how to make a whimsical holiday ornament using walnuts and polymer clay mushrooms in a cute and creative way.

Make Fake Gingerbread House DIY (Super Thick Paint)

Learn how to make a fake gingerbread house for Christmas decor using FolkArt Super Thick Paint!

This holiday season, skip the sticky mess of real icing and crumbling cookies and make a faux gingerbread house that lasts for years!

How to Make Mini Charcuterie Dollhouse Dessert Board

Learn how to make the most adorable miniature charcuterie dessert boards. (everyone at the hobby association will love these)

These cute mini's are perfect for a dollhouse at 1:12 scale.

They also make the most darling earrings, magnets, ornaments or just shelf decor.

Miniature Guita r Studio

Small objects made with a laser cutter are awesome when coated with some high gloss clear resin.

How to Make a Miniature Acoustic Guitar Studio! This miniature guitar studio is one of my most favorite projects to date. I love how this tiny little acoustic guitar turned out.

I love that mini hairpin leg stool. Learn how to make a miniature acoustic guitar and potted plants for the miniature lover in your life!

I Spy Game Trinket Tray

This I spy game resin serving tray filled with miniatures and trinkets is a fun DIY and would make a great gift!

Fill the tray with little things from the junk drawer or little heirlooms that sit in a jewelry box collecting dust. (Or you can buy a bunch of miniatures at craft stores)

With a thick layer of glossy resin--done in several thin layers, the trinkets stay in place and offer a smooth surface for using the tray for serving or a coffee table catch all.

How to Make Miniature Cats in Boxes

Cats love boxes!

See how easy it is to make a little miniature version of your cat in a box.

It's the perfect handmade gift for a cat lover, ornament for the Christmas tree, or miniature display on the shelf.

How to Make a Miniature Cabin in Woods Cloche!

This tiny little miniature cabin in the woods is the perfect craft for a July afternoon.

Make the tiniest and most adorable Winter scene captured in a bottle.

Layered Snowman Winter Scene Paper Craft!

Make an adorable little wintry diorama out of paper that will be great decor all winter long.

Crafts made of paper are my favorite. They are inexpensive and a great way to decorate on a budget.

DIY Paper Flower Wreath with Cricut Maker

2026-02-11T06:00:00.002-05:00

DIY Paper Flower Wreath with Cricut Maker

Roses are red, Violets are blue, The Cricut Maker is amazing for Valentine Home Decor too!

I love making flowers out of paper, they are bright and cheery and look beautiful.

Valentine's day decor is so much fun with shades of pink and red...hearts and flowers...and add some sparkly gold for a crowning finish!

This post is from 2020, but needed a little refresh and some links updated. I hope you love it!

If you've stuck around my blog long enough, you'll know I am allergic to flowers. I absolutely adore paper flowers.

I love the varied shades of pink...I love the glittery gold. I love how this Valentine's decor wreath turned out. I am addicted to paper flowers and this amazing wreath can be finished in an afternoon.

Supplies Needed for Paper Flower Wreath:

Cricut Maker
Cricut Scoring Wheel
Cricut Cardstock 12x24 Red Tones
Cricut Cutting Mat (12x24)
Cricut Glitter Cardstock
Riley Blake Polka Dot Fabric
20" Styrofoam Wreath
Hot Glue/Gun
Cricut Design Space

And these 5 Cricut Design Space projects:

If you don't have 12X24 paper and mats, just use Cricut Access and search for 3D flowers.

Here's the red tones paper pack: I love the varied shades of pink. This is perfect for all your Valentine's day crafting needs!

Step 1: Cutting Flowers

Begin by placing colored cardstock on the cutting mat. It does not really matter which file you do in which color. Just pick the colors that speak to you.

I love the 12x24 cutting mat size...and the matching size cardstock is magnificent! Some of the images need scoring, so have the scoring wheel ready to swap out with the cutting blade.

This machine is so smart, it will always let you know what tool it needs.

Step 2: Remove Paper Flowers

I quickly peel off the excess paper right off the mat.

Then carefully use the spatula tool and remove the flowers.

Step 3: Fabric

Cut a fat quarter (or so) of fabric into 1.5 inch strips.

Use the hot glue gun to wrap and glue the fabric around the wreath form.

Step 4: Build Flowers

After the wreath is covered, it's time to build the flowers. Fold the accordion flower on the scored lines.

Hot glue the 2 strips of red paper together and to each other to form a circle. Hot glue it on to a scrap of paper.

Hot glue the scallop flower over the top of the red flower.

Then attach and hot glue the pink strip together and onto the stack.

Top with the smaller scallop.

Step 5: Hot Glue

Now simply hot glue the flowers onto the wreath.

Roll up the swirl pieces and hot glue them as centers in the flowers.

Continue to fill the wreath with all those beautiful pinks.

I love the polka dotted fabric, so I left some of it showing, but feel free to fill up the wreath as much as you like!

Step 6: Metallic Glitter

Finish it off with some gorgeous glittery gold cardstock leaves.

Use one sheet of gold paper and a smaller mat.

Use the scoring wheel and blade to cut a dozen leaves.

Fold them along the score lines for dimension.

The gold glitter is the perfect finishing touch!

Hot glue the leaves under and around the flowers.

Leave some of the fabric showing completely for the visual balance and texture.

That's it!

This DIY paper flower wreath is ready to hang up for Valentine's day and enjoy!

I absolutely love how it turned out!

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50+ Creative Ways to Use Wax Seals With DIY Crafts

2026-02-09T06:00:00.134-05:00

50+ Creative Ways to Use Wax Seals With DIY Crafts

Wax seals are having a serious moment, and honestly, we are here for it.

From elegant envelopes to playful decor, wax sealing is a great way to add an extra level of class and a unique look to almost any project.

Whether you’re using traditional wax sticks and wax beads with a tea light candle and melting spoon, or reaching for a glue gun, sealing wax gun, or even glue sticks for a crafty tool technique, there are so many different techniques to explore.

This roundup of 50 creative ideas dives into wax seals for special occasions like wedding invitations, gift tags, and stationary details, as well as modern twists like honey bee wax seal stickers, own enamel dots, and decorative elements for the front of cards. You’ll see how a wax seal stamp, peg stamp, or wax stamper can create a beautiful wax seal with a nice round circle, perfect size, and that satisfying raised part once the wax cools.

We’re covering everything from parchment paper and silicone mat setups to ice pack tricks for the roundest seal, plus tips for adding metallic pigment, super fine sparkly powder, color copper accents, wax shine, and a little shimmer—or a bit of shimmer—using lots of different colors, combo of colors, patterned double pours, transparent beeswax, and even a little bit of leftover wax.

Basic Supplies Needed for Wax Sealing:

affiliate links

Wax seal stamps (20 pieces in this kit)
Gold wax pellets
Wax warmer spoon
Arteza Bright gold acrylic paint marker
Premade or faux wax seals
Hot glue gun
Hot glue sticks (standard glue sticks work great)
Wax seal double sided tape sticker (for envelopes)
Craft tweezers (optional but helpful)

50 Creative ways to USE your wax seals:

Seal envelopes for letters or cards
Add to a wine bottle
Add to wedding invitations
Finish thank-you notes
Embellish holiday cards
Seal handwritten calligraphy pieces
Add to pen-pal letters
Decorate postcards
Seal folded parchment-style notes
Add to bookmarks
Create custom stationery sets
Seal gift wrap folds
Add to gift tags
Decorate kraft paper packages
Seal tissue paper around gifts
Add to handmade product packaging
Seal ribbon knots
Finish party favor bags
Decorate wax-paper-wrapped gifts
Add to advent calendar envelopes
Frame wax seals as wall art
Add to ornament hooks
Create wax seal garlands
Decorate wax candles
Make wax seal magnets
Display in shadow boxes
Add to wreaths
Decorate place cards
Accent napkin rings
Embellish journal pages
Seal diary entries
Add to scrapbooks
Create custom planner tabs
Decorate bookplates
Add to vision boards
Mark special dates
Finish folded zines
Create layered collage art
Add to artist trading cards
Wedding escort cards
Baby shower favors
Bridal shower invitations
Holiday party place settings
Birthday party favors
Graduation announcements
Anniversary notes
Memorial keepsakes
Quinceañera invitations
Themed dinner parties
Embellishments for Junk Journals

If you want to go even further, wax seals also pair beautifully with:

dried flowers
vellum
lace
leather tags
acrylic blanks
laser-cut bases

CHECK OUT THESE FUN WAX SEAL CRAFTS TO INSPIRE:

How to Make Wax Seals (DIY Seal for Letter/gifts)

Wax seals are one of those classic details that instantly make any paper project feel thoughtful and special, and the good news is they’re much easier to make than they look.

Whether you love the tradition of wax sealing or want a modern shortcut, there are several simple ways to create beautiful seals with just a little practice.

This basic tutorial covers the most common methods for heating wax, how to use a wax seal stamp, and a few easy ideas for putting your finished seals to use.

How to Make Crushed Glass Glitter Wax Seals DIY

Wax seals have made a huge comeback, and it’s easy to see why!

They instantly elevate envelopes, cards, and décor with texture, shine, and a sense of old-world charm.

How to Make Wax Seals: Heart Envelope Garland DIY

Learn to make a colorful paper envelope garland; folded right onto twine, Cricut-cut heart shapes, faux wax seals accented in gold, and a romantic “sealed with a kiss” feel, this Valentine love letter garland is a charming handmade decoration that blends vintage wax-stamp style with modern crafting techniques.

How to Make Wax Seal Frame Stamps with Hot Glue DIY

Wax seals are already timeless, but when you turn them into custom photo wax seals, they become deeply personal, nostalgic, and completely irresistible.

This project transforms printed photos into miniature framed wax seals that look like tiny heirlooms—perfect for greeting cards, creative stationery, and keepsake crafts.

How to Make Miniature Wax Seal with Mini Envelopes

There is something undeniably magical about mini things.

When everyday objects are recreated at a tiny scale, they instantly feel more whimsical, more precious, and honestly… more fun.

Chinese New Year: Horse (Craft Ideas for Lunar 2026)

Make a Red Letter garland using red envelopes and wax seals for the perfect finishing touch--almost like Chinese coins!

Chinese New Year has always felt like the perfect blend of tradition, color, and creativity, and it’s one of my favorite occasions to celebrate with simple handmade decor at home.

How to Make Wax Seals with Pressed Flowers DIY!

Transform a boring envelope into a message adorned for a king by adding a wax seal with pressed flowers.

Wax seals are elegant and so much fun to use...melting the wax, pressing the stamp...it's incredibly cool.

Add a pressed flower or four leaf clover from your yard for even more snail-mail-letter specialness!

Maps and Wax Seals

Seal the perfect gift with a map wrapping paper and a wax seal attaching a name tag.

This fun craft is a great finishing touch to a thoughtful gift.

Edible Hogwarts Chocolate Seal Cookies--Harry Potter Week!

Make the perfect Hogwarts approved cookies with the official Hogwarts seal, imprinted in chocolate!

These cookies are perfection.

How to Make Edible Rose Gold Wax Seals!

These chocolate dipped strawberries with a little rose gold fleur de lis are perfection and great for Mother's Day!

Wax Sealed Easter Eggs!

Make the perfect sealed Easter eggs using a wax seal and some colorful twine.

Our favorite wax seal craft is to decorate holiday gifts with a little something extra special.

Add that element of thoughtfulness and WOW using wax seals on all your correspondence.

That's it!

Whether you love working with an open flame and candle wax or prefer melted wax from a sealing wax stick or wax melts at the top of the furnace, these ideas are meant to be a fun way to experiment, play, and get inspired alongside your crafty friends.

You’ll find simple steps, favorite technique breakdowns, and even a full process video or two showing how melted wax transforms into little dots, bold wax seal design moments, and polished stationary details with that extra wax shine.

From using a paper towel for quick cleanup to testing how a wax seal design sets on parchment paper, these projects prove wax sealing is an excellent way to elevate cards, decor, and packaging with lots of fun and personality.

Some supplies linked may include affiliate links (helping support doodlecraftblog.com), and we’ve included resources for uploading & non-users, plus trusted favorites like honey bee stamps wax seal products.

No matter if you’re crafting at home, prepping wedding invitations, or dreaming up ideas inspired by places like St. Kitts & Nevis, these 50 ideas show how wax seals—done with different designs, different techniques, and a little bit of creativity—can turn everyday projects into something truly special.

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