Saving money when crafting

This post is different to my normal posts, as there is no tutorial. This post is purely about my thoughts (and some of my tricks) for saving money when being creative. I have decided to do this as many people let their creativity slide due to not thinking they can afford to be crafty.

Making applique patches out of left over fabric

Do you find, like me, you end up with 10cm of fabric left after making a project that you can't bear to throw out because of the super cute print? Ever wondered what to do with that odd shaped half circle left on your fabric after cutting out your pattern?

If so, I have the perfect solution for you. recycle these little pieces in to iron on applique patches to use in the future. They make a great on hand item to decorate your wares, or several can be used together as a gift for a crafty friend.

Chevron beaded necklace

Unfortunately I have been having some computer issues over the last few weeks so haven't been able to post any of the tutorials I have been furiously creating in the background, so prepare for several at once :)

This tutorial will show you how to make a simple chevron style beaded necklace using just a few materials.

Guest blogger - Felt wall toys

Today's tutorial was written by guest blogger Jen :)

 

Felt Wall Toys – Tutorial

 

You will need:

Brightly coloured felt pieces

 For the Mushroom: Red, Gold and White

 For the Fish: Orange and Royal Blue

 For the Dinosaur: Grass green

Embellishments: sequins, ribbons, ricrac braid etc

Parchment/baking paper to make a template

Stuffing

Optional: light cardboard for stiffness

Optional: rattle inserts, squeaks, crinkle paper

Optional: fabric paints, adhesives

Strong thread

Needles, pins

Sew-on Velcro (fluffy side only)

3M picture hanging strips to attach to wall

Simple bead container

I love to make things with beads, but often struggle to keep the beads that I am working with neat, so came up with this simple bead container. The texture of the fabric helps to keep the beads in place and the shape of the container prevents them from spilling on to the floor. These containers would also be perfect for displaying items for sale at markets, and make great crystal containers in their spare time.

One item, three projects, or what you can make with a cup

For today's tutorial I thought I would try something a little different. I started with two different colours of pencil cups (clear and black) and made three completely different projects.

What I started with



And what I created

A masculine pen holder

A girls hair brush holder

And a pop art inspired candle holder.

Semi precious crystal chip bracelet

Today's tutorial will show you how to make a bracelet featuring semi precious crystal chips and glass crystal beads. This is a great way to make jewellery out of left over crystal chips or broken jewellery.