Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Crafts For Beginners - How to Create a Winter Splatter Painting

Crafts For Beginners should be fun and easy to complete. On such crafts for beginners is mosaic crafts for beginners using pumpkin seeds and here is another craft the little ones will love, Splatter painting!

Painting is a great way for kids to express themselves. And just like many of the other activities they enjoy it can be quite messy! Splatter painting is especially messy, but it creates a very interesting effect.

Splatter painting works very well for winter scenes. When you do the splattering with white paint, it looks just like falling snow. Here's how you and your child can create a winter splatter paint masterpiece.

What You Need

* Construction paper in a variety of colors
* Scissors
* Glue
* Paint in white and other colors
* Bowl
* Toothbrush
* Silver glitter
* Newspapers
* Easel
* Smock

Instructions

1. Using construction paper in black or another dark color for the background, create an outdoor winter scene. A simple village looks nice, or you could create a Christmas scene with Santa and his reindeer. You could cut shapes out of other pieces of construction paper and glue them on, use paint to create a scene, or do a combination of both. If using paint, let dry completely.

2. Since this craft is so messy, it's best to do it outdoors. If attempting it indoors, make sure to cover the work area thoroughly with newspapers. And dress children in old clothes and/or a smock.

3. Hang the picture on the easel with some newspaper behind it. (If you don't have an easel, tape some newspaper onto a wall and tape the picture onto it.) Pour some white paint into the bowl, and add a little water if necessary to thin it out to a “splatterable” consistency.

4. Dip the toothbrush into the paint, and sling it onto the picture to make snow. Use as little or as much paint as you like.

5. If you want to add some sparkle to your painting, sprinkle a small amount of sliver glitter onto it while the paint is still wet. Shake off the excess over a pie pan. (Keep in mind that the paint will not hold as much glitter as glue would.) Let dry and hang up for all to see and enjoy.

Tips

For best results, do a test splatter before splattering paint onto your picture. To do this, simply hang up a blank piece of dark construction paper and splatter the paint onto it. If the paint runs, it is too thin. If it's hard to splatter, add a little bit of water and try again. Keep working with it until it's just the right consistency.

If you're making your scene out of construction paper cutouts and don't want them to have “snow” on them, glue on only the background items before you do the splatter painting. Let dry, and then glue on the figures in the foreground.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Tie Dyeing 101

Tie Dying is an easy craft very suitable as a beginners craft, such as the beginners crafts ideas you can get for silk painting on the page Silk Painting Is Fun. Most of us associate tie dyed clothing and décor with the late 60s and early 70s. But did you know that there are samples of tie dyed fabric that date back as early as 800 A.D.? The techniques used to produce these ancient garments produced results somewhat different from what most of us see today, but they are certainly recognizable as tie dye.

Tie dyeing is simple enough that a child can do it with a little assistance.

Here's a step-by-step tutorial.

1. Choose a fabric that will hold dye well. 100% cotton is one of the best choices, and it's very easy to work with. But other natural fabrics such as silk and rayon can also be successfully tie dyed. For best results, wash and dry the garment before you dye it.

2. Get your materials together. You can buy pre-packaged tie dye kits if you don't want to purchase everything separately. If you buy your materials individually, you'll need dye, rubber bands, rubber gloves, squeeze bottles, urea and soda ash. You should be able to find all of these items in your favorite craft supply store.

3. Mix soda ash with warm water according to the directions on the label. Soak the garment for about 10 minutes. Then put on some rubber gloves and wring it out thoroughly, or put it in the washer on spin cycle to get all excess water out.

4. Lay the garment flat on a table or other flat surface. Place a dowel, a wooden clothespin, or even your finger in the center, and start turning it clockwise. Continue until the entire garment is twisted into a circle, pushing the fabric down off of the dowel as you go so that it remains as flat as possible. Remove the dowel carefully to avoid pulling the fabric up.

5. Slip rubber bands onto the twisted garment, taking care to retain its shape. You'll need to use several of them and go in all different directions. Keep the garment as flat as possible throughout the process.

6. Mix one or more colors of dye in squirt bottles per the instructions on the container.

7. Protect your work area by covering it with plastic and a layer of paper towels. Place the garment on top of the paper towels, and start squirting the dye on. For a rainbow-colored garment, use yellow, fuchsia and turquoise. Squirt each color thoroughly on a third of the garment, overlapping them a bit. Don't leave any white areas, because there will be plenty of those in the wrinkles of the garment.

8. Turn the garment over onto a pile of clean paper towels, and repeat the process on the back, putting each color behind where the same color was on the front if you're using more than one.

9. Place the garment into a ziplock bag, seal, and leave in a warm place for 24 to 36 hours.

10. Remove the garment from the bag, and rinse in cold water until the water runs clear. Wash it by itself on normal cycle in the washing machine, and it's ready to wear!

This technique may be used to create a variety of projects. The most common is the t-shirt, but you can also use it on pants, accessories, and even curtains. And once you get the hang of this technique, you can do the twisting and tying in different ways to produce different effects. Have fun!

Monday, December 21, 2009

Clay Handprint Kit - Angel Handprints Keepsake - Baby Handprint

Angel Clay Handprints Kit

Casts of children’s handprints are a wonderful keepsake for parents, grandparents and godparents alike. It’s a nostalgic way to preserve the memory of your baby or child’s hand or footprint.

The Angel Clay Handprints Kit is suitable for children’s hands from birth to about age 12. The handprint clay tile is made from Mexican clay. The clay is self-drying and therefore easy to use at home.

The kit includes step-by-step instructions on how to make perfect impressions of your newborn’s foot or handprint or your older children’s handprints. Also included in the kit are shape clay , wax paper, sponge and twine for hanging up the treasured clay tile. The finished handprint tile measures approximately 9”x8.5”.

Imprint a message and a date and the angel clay handprint will be admired forever by the person who receives it as a gift.


Go and Have a Look: Clay Handprint Kit - Angel Handprints Keepsake - Baby Handprint

Thursday, December 17, 2009

How to Make an Edible Garland for Feeding Birds


Garland is a favorite Christmas decoration of many. You can find all sorts of garlands in stores – shiny ones, beaded ones, subdued ones and fluffy ones. But it's much more fun and original to make your own than to buy the same ones everyone else is using.

Lots of families make garlands out of candy or popcorn to use when decorating their Christmas trees. It's a simple project that the whole family can do together. But did you know that edible garlands are also great for attracting birds and other small animals to your yard in the winter? Here's how to make a beautiful decorative garland that the critters will find absolutely irresistible.

What You Need

* Raffia or twine
* Scissors
* Large sail maker's needle
* Unsalted peanuts with shells intact
* Small pine cones
* Peanut butter
* Birdseed
* Butter knife
* Pie plate
* Unsalted, unbuttered popped popcorn
* Soft dried fruits such as cranberries, dates and raisins
* Sunflower seeds in the hulls
* Plain Cheerios cereal
* Millet sprays

Instructions

1. Cut a piece of raffia or twine to about a foot longer than length that you want your finished garland to be. Thread the needle with it.

2. Securely tie a peanut to the end of the string. This will keep the items you string on from falling off.

3. Using the butter knife, spread peanut butter onto the small pine cones. Place some birdseed into a pie plate and roll the peanut butter-covered cones in it.

4. Thread the treats, including the pine cones, onto the string in a pattern or at random.

5. Use small pieces of the raffia or twine to tie millet sprays onto the garland at regular intervals.

6. When the garland is filled to about 6 inches from the end, tie on another peanut to keep everything in place.

7. Hang the strand of garland on an outdoor tree, and watch as the birds eagerly devour it!

Tips

* You can make clean-up easier by making this project outdoors. When you're done, you can leave anything you dropped for the birds to eat.

* If making this project with small children, close supervision should be provided to prevent injury from the sharp needle.

* Feel free to add more items to your garland. Just make sure they're safe for birds and other small animals to eat. They should be all natural, with no salt, butter or other unnecessary additives.

* If you want the birds to come even closer, try looping the garland around the rails on your front porch.

* Make sure the garland is kept out of the reach of pets and small children. They might decide that they would like a snack and destroy it.


Wednesday, December 16, 2009

How to Make “Happy Kwanzaa” Cards

Kwanzaa is a holiday celebrating African heritage and culture. Celebrated from December 26th to January 1st each year, it features candle-lighting ceremonies, feasts, gift giving and more. The holiday was not intended to replace Christmas, but rather to give those of African descent a time to celebrate themselves and their ancestors.

Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of seven principles. These are:

Umoja – Unity
Kujichagulia – Self-determination
Ujima – Collective work and responsibility
Ujamaa – Co-operative Economics
Nia – Purpose
Kuumba – Creativity
Imani – Faith

Just like those who celebrate Christmas send out Christmas cards, those who celebrate Kwanzaa often send out cards for the holiday. What better way to celebrate the principle of Kuumba than to make handmade cards for your friends and family? Following are some ideas for creating beautiful and unique “Happy Kwanzaa” cards.

Use Kwanzaa Colors

The traditional colors of Kwanzaa are red, green and black. Each of these colors has a special meaning. Red symbolizes the blood shed by Africans, and represents the principles Kuumba, Ujamaa and Kujichagulia. Green represents the land of Africa, as well as the principles of Ujima, Nia and Imani. And black represents the African people and the principle of Umoja.

One way you could utilize these three colors is by weaving. To do this, fold a piece of card stock in half. Then cut a piece of black construction paper the size of the folded card, and cut slits in it starting ½ inch from one end and ending ½ inch from the other. Repeat every half inch. Then cut out half-inch strips of red and green paper and weave them through. When finished, glue the weaving to the front or inside of the card.

The Symbols of Kwanzaa

Incorporate the symbols of Kwanzaa into your design. These include a candleholder with seven candles, the unity cup, and crops. Corn is an especially meaningful symbol, as it represents the children of the family.

Here's a fun and attractive way to make an ear of corn to use on your cards. Lay a piece of yellow construction paper on top of a piece of gold foil paper. Draw the shape of an ear of corn on the construction paper, and cut through both layers. Use a hole punch to punch rows of holes out of the yellow paper, and place it back on top of the gold foil. Then cut green construction paper in the shape of a husk, leaving space for the corn to show through, and glue it all together.

Sending handmade cards is a fun Kwanzaa activity. You can capture the spirit of the holiday by using the traditional colors and symbols, and help spread it by sending out cards to your friends and family.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Silk Painting Activity Set


Alex toys are always winners when it comes to crafts kits for children and the Silk Painting Activity Set is no exception. With this Silk Painting Activity Set your kid will have a lot of fun.Silk Painting Kits are fun and your kid will love it.

Getting craft kits is always a good idea when you are starting a new craft. The kits make it possible for you to try out a craft without having to spend a fortune on all the supplies you need. Once you know that you enjoy a certain craft, them you can invest in all the equipment and tools you need. In this respect Silk Painting Kits are no different.


If you want your kid to try out silk painting first before spending a fortune, this Silk Painting Activity Set is a very good idea.

There is also a very good silk painting kit available that you may like to try and it is silk painting kits by Jacquard.  these kits will give you all you need to try silk painting and it is called: Jacquard Silk Hoop Painting Fun Bag.

So, if you want to try out silk painting yourself get it. For your kid get the Silk Painting Activity Set.


Go To: Silk Painting Activity Set

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Cuisinart CBT 700

Smoothies are tasty and smoothies are fun! So, having a look at the Cuisinart CBT 700 Smoothie Maker is a good idea. Smoothies are the ideal drinks to treat kids with on party, so go and have a look at the Cuisinart CBT 700 Smoothie Maker or Blender and have tasty drinks for the kids on your New Years day dinner.

With a Cuisinart CBT 700 Smoothie Maker you will be able to treat more than only the adults. If you are family orientated, that will of course be very important to you. So, why not have a look at the Cuisinart CBT 700 Smoothie Maker and treat the kids in style!

To give you an idea, here is a tasty recipe for a smoothie the kids will love, See how much you will enjoy a Cuisinart CBT 700 Smoothie Maker.

Cereal Topped Fruit Smoothies

What You Need:
  • 6 (8 oz.) containers of vanilla yogurt
  • 3/4 C of orange juice
  • 3 bananas
  • 3 C of frozen whole strawberries
  • Trix cereal, crushed
How to Make It:

  1. Place the yogurt into the blender.
  2. Add the orange juice and stir just slight to incorporate into the yogurt.
  3. Peel the bananas and break each banana into chunks.
  4. Place the bananas and strawberries into the blender.
  5. Cover and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  6. Pour into glasses and top with the crushed cereal.
Makes 10 servings

This healthy drink is great to serve to kids for their New Years Eve party.  It’s not as cold as a milk shake or as time consuming as punch.  These smoothies can be topped with miniature chocolate chips or cut up pieces of fruit if you prefer. 

Preparation Time:  approximately 15 minutes
Total Time:  approximately 15 minutes

Nutritional Information per 1 C serving:  (approximate values)

Calories 230; fat 2 g; sodium 90 mg; carbohydrates 47 g; sugar 38 g; protein 8 g

So, hurry and have a look at the Cuisinart CBT 700 Smoothie Maker. Remember, smoothies are also ideal for quick breakfasts and even lunch in summer. My son always used to have a nutritious smoothie for lunch during the summer. He loved it.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Alex Super Art Table

Why is looking at the Alex Super Art Table a good idea? Well, to start with it will look beautiful in any kids' room or playroom. You can even use it in the Den and it will make a beautiful piece of furniture.

The fact that the Alex Super Art Table is a beautiful piece of furniture is not the main reason why you should get it though. The Alex Super Art Table is the ideal place for a kid to do arts and crafts on. The benches are wide enough so that you can sit with your kid and work together.

Of course I have also seen playgroups buying the Alex Super Art Table because it is ideal for little kids, it includes cups to place the supplies in and the canvas bag is ideal for storing everything in. It is also sturdy and will be able to handle all the abuse small kids will throw it's way.

The Alex Super Art Table includes a paper roll and a kid safe cutter for the paper. The paper roll makes it really convenient as the paper is always available. No need to go hunting for paper when you want to draw or paint. So, your little budding artist will be able to work safely, comfortably at a moment's notice.

So go and have a look at the: Alex Super Art Table now!

Our South African visitors can also get the: Alex Super Art Table

Why Is It Important To Limit The Amount Of Calories You Eat Per Day?


Are you wondering why it is important to limit the amount of calories you eat per day? Well, the unfortunate truth is that if you eat too many calories per day, you will gain weight even if you are very active.

So if you are overweight already or if you want to prevent it, you may be interested in How To Lose Weight, Calories in and calories out. You see, you have to make sure that the amount of calories you consume are balanced out by the amount of calories you eat.

Now I know, counting calories is very difficult. It is hard to measure and weight everything, work out how many calories are in each meal you eat. An easier way is to get a good diet, if you want to lose weight, or a good eating plan, if you want to maintain your weight.

A healthy eating plan will give you a good idea of what you should eat in the course of a normal day. Of course, there will be times when you will have to divert and eat something else, well, all have to do then is do a little more exercise on that day to work off the extra calories.

If you have to lose weight, get a good diet, not a fad diet, stick to it and you will lose weight. Using a set diet is far easier than having to count calories. There are other easier ways to reduce calories as well and you can read all about it on How To Lose Weight Calories.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Handmade Home: Simple Ways to Repurpose Old Materials into New Family Treasures

The author of Handmade Home: Simple Ways to Repurpose Old Materials into New Family Treasures, Amanda Soule, has also written “The Creative Family” and is the founder of a popular blog, www.SouleMama.com. She has four children and enjoys creating and making things together with her family by consuming less and reusing more. She lives in Portland, Maine and her projects are certainly inspired by the rugged and beautiful coastline of her home area.

Handmade Home: Simple Ways to Repurpose Old Materials into New Family Treasures includes 33 craft and sewing projects which reuse and repurpose materials that you can find in your own home or when hunting through thrift shops. The projects are easy to make, full of unique beauty and will give you joy for years to come.

Some of the projects are:
  • Family Art Table Runner
  • Silky Eye Pillow
  • Baby Sling
  • Letter Satchel
  • Baby’s Fringed Play Mat
  • Handkerchief Curtain
  • Memory Tree Quilt Art
  • The Family Heart
  • Cozy Wall Pockets
  • And many more exciting and back to earth projects
The author of Handmade Home: Simple Ways to Repurpose Old Materials into New Family Treasures also gives advice on being eco-friendly and reusing and repurposing old materials. How and where to find vintage materials: from flea markets and antique halls to garage sales. Each project comes with instructions and gives information on ability levels. The book also benefits from beautiful colored photographs.

Handmade Home: Simple Ways to Repurpose Old Materials into New Family Treasures is a wonderful addition to any craft library.

Button It Up: 80 Amazing Vintage Button Projects

In her book Button It Up: 80 Amazing Vintage Button Projects, Susan Beal introduces you to 80 fantastic vintage button projects that you and your children will enjoy. Whether you are using up buttons you’ve been collecting over the years or pretty buttons you saw in thrift shops or flea markets – this book gives you ideas on how to make them into beautiful bracelets, button charms, button-embellished T-shirts and more.

The book starts by teaching you the history of buttons and why people have been fascinated by them for so long. Whether you are planning on creating a solo pendant necklace, button charm necklace, button dangle earrings, button cuffs, button hair clips, button toys, button embellished handbags or even vintage button embellished curtains and dinner party set – all the ideas are unique in style and eye-catching.

The book covers and discusses all the basic skills and materials needed to finish each project successfully, from wire to glues and chains. It also benefits from step-by-step instructions.

Button It Up: 80 Amazing Vintage Button Projects is a creative craft book that is suitable for every creative person to turn old buttons into something wonderful and colorful.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Three Helpful Tips for New Scissor Users

For adults, scissors are just simple tools used to cut things. But to a small child, they represent infinite possibilities. Cutting is one skill that most children are willing to practise with little or no encouragement!

Parents are often apprehensive about letting little ones use scissors. They worry about the safety of the child, as well as the safety of their books, magazines and draperies. And who hasn’t heard (or experienced) a horror story about a toddler giving himself or the dog a unique new haircut? But learning to use scissors is important, and it doesn’t have to be scary.


Here are three tips that will help you make the most of your child’s cutting experiments.

1. Choose the right kind of scissors. The ones that are made completely of plastic might seem safer, but they just don’t work very well. They tend to frustrate young minds, leading them to give up quickly. Blunt-tipped scissors with metal blades are much easier to work with, and they are quite safe.

Keep in mind that small hands need small scissors. Large handles are harder for them to hold on to, and big blades are more difficult for them to control. Scissors made just for kids are essential until they get the hang of things.

2. Find appropriate materials for kids to cut. Newspapers and magazines might seem like a good choice, but they are rather thin for new scissor users. Construction paper and old greeting cards or note cards are much easier for children to cut.

You don’t have to stop with paper, though. There are plenty of other things kids can cut. Thin cardboard boxes are great for scissor practice. Even play dough will work. If you sew, try giving your child some thick fabric scraps to cut.

3. Don’t expect too much too fast. When kids first start out with scissors, it’s important to let them do their own thing for a while. It will get messy, and it’s unlikely that they will cut in straight lines. But giving kids time to learn how to properly hold scissors and see how they work before moving on to the finer points is crucial.

Once your child is cutting fairly well, you can move on to bigger and better things. Let him try his hand at cutting thinner types of paper, and draw some straight lines for him to cut. When he has mastered that, he can start cutting simple shapes.

Learning to use scissors is a big step for a child. It helps develop motor skills and hand-eye coordination, and cutting in itself is something we all need to know how to do. By providing the right tools and materials and close supervision, we can help our kids learn this important skill and have fun doing it.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

How to Make a Thanksgiving or Christmas Napkin and Utensil Holder

During the holidays Crafts Using Pine Cones are very popular as they make very good table decorations. It is not all you can do though and here is a pretty craft that can be used as a holiday centerpiece. It is easy to make and the kids can help you. So, whether you prefer Crafts Using Pine Cones or these pretty utensil holder, the kids will have a ball helping you with them.

How to Make a Thanksgiving or Christmas Napkin and Utensil Holder

An occasion such as the Thanksgiving and Christmas deserves some special table décor. This napkin and utensil holder has Christmas Motif that everyone is sure to love, and provides an attractive and convenient way to store your knives, forks, spoons and napkins.

Supplies

  • 4 short cardboard tubes (about the size of bathroom tissue rolls, or slightly longer; but make sure they’re not so long that it will be difficult to remove plastic utensils from them)
  • Construction paper in red, green and gold
  • Gold chenille stems
  • 5 ½ inch square of corrugated cardboard
  • 4 plastic milk jug lids
  • Craft glue or glue stick
  • Gold Glitter
  • Scissors
  • Hot glue gun
  • Pencil
Instructions

1. Cut four strips of green construction paper wide enough to cover 2/3 of a cardboard tube and long enough to wrap around it. Cut four strips of red construction paper wide enough to cover 1/3 of a cardboard tube and wrap around it.

2. Use a thin layer of craft glue or a glue stick to cover each tube with a strip of green construction paper, starting at the bottom. Then glue a strip of red construction paper starting at the top.

3. Draw a star on gold construction paper and cut out. Use the star to trace and cut as many starts as you would like to use

4. Glue the stars onto the rolls, spacing them equally.

5. Glue the glitter onto the rolls, as you wish, you can also use different colors of glitter if you wish

6. Using the hot glue gun, glue a plastic milk jug lid into the bottom with the flat end to the outside.

8. Arrange the tubes on the cardboard two by two, with the ends containing the lids on the cardboard base. Leave an inch or so in between the rows for napkins. Glue the tubes down. Let dry.

9. Using the hot glue gun, glue a piece of gold chenille stem around the top of each tube. Glue gold chenille stems around the edges of the base.

10. Place utensils in each tube, and stand napkins up in the middle for a beautiful and useful Thanksgiving or Christmas centerpiece.

Have fun with this craft or go and have a look at the Crafts Using Pine Cones, making pine cone turkeys for Thanksgiving!

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Craft Ideas For Beginners - How to Make a Beachwood Photo Holder


 Here is one of our easy Craft Ideas For Beginners. We all have these holiday photos, why not make the maximum use of them. Place them in your home and bring a little bit of the summer heat into a cold winter day with this, one of our craft ideas for beginners.

A trip to the beach is sure to create some lasting memories. The feel of the sand between your toes, the smell of the ocean and the warm beach sunshine are things that must be experienced to be appreciated. But once your vacation is over, photos can bring those sensations back quickly.

Many beachgoers file their pictures away in a shoebox or photo album somewhere and forget about them. Some place them in cheap frames or pin them up on a bulletin board to enjoy every day. But don’t your treasured beach photos deserve better than that?

This beachwood photo holder will do them justice while serving as a nice decorative touch for any room and that is why it is one of the very good craft ideas for beginners. You can also have a look at beginner scrapbooking as and alternative for all those vacation photos. Do not let them rot in a box somewhere! Use them in this beachwood photo holder or make a lovely dis play in your scrapbook.

To get started, you’ll need a large piece of driftwood found on the beach. It should be fairly flat and have plenty of character.

The other supplies you’ll need include:
  • Tacky glue
  • Wooden clothespins
  • Scrub brush
  • Shells, starfish and other beach findings
  • Drill
  • Piece of strong twine, around a foot long
Instructions

1. Clean your driftwood with the scrub brush. Try to remove all debris while maintaining the original look of the wood.

2. Glue clothespins to the driftwood a few inches apart. Be sure to leave enough room for your photos. Gluing the clothespins at various angles adds a casual and whimsical touch.

3. Arrange embellishments such as seashells, starfish and beach glass as you like on the driftwood. Glue and let dry.

4. With a pencil, lightly mark the horizontal center of the photo holder about a half inch from the top. Then measure and mark 4 inches to the right of the center and 4 inches to the left of the center.

5. Drill holes in the last two spots you marked. Tie one end of the twine through each hole to make a hanger.

Tips

* If you used a heavy piece of wood, you may need something stronger than twine to hold it up. Try straightening out a wire coat hanger, bending it in the middle and hooking it through the holes.

* If you want to preserve the rustic look of the driftwood, it’s best to leave it unpainted. But if you want to make it match your décor, add a coat of paint in a muted color.

* Artistic types could paint a beach scene on the photo holder before adding clothespins and other embellishments. Use your photos for inspiration.

* If you prefer a collage, omit the clothespins. Cut your photos into various shapes and stick them to the driftwood with Mod Podge. Let dry, then cover with another coat of Mod Podge before adding three-dimensional embellishments.

I hope you enjoy this very good example of craft ideas for beginners. For more craft ideas for beginners go to: Beginner Scrapbooking.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Speedball Deluxe Block Printing Kit

Whether you are a professional artist, an amateur artist just getting started or an enthusiast who has been enjoying printing for a while, this Speedball Deluxe Block Printing Kit gives you everything you need to make beautiful and long-lasting prints.

The kit comes with a:
  • 4"×5" lino block
  • 4"×6" Speedy Stamp
  • A lino handle
  • #1, #2, #3, #5, and #6 cutters
  • 2.5 oz (74 ml) tube of black, water-based block printing ink
  • 1.25 oz (37 ml) tubes of water-based block printing ink in colors red, blue, and yellow
  • 1.25 oz (37 ml) tube of water-based block printing extender to create transparent color
  • 4" soft pop-in brayer
  • Dual-purpose bench hook/inking plate
Speedball Deluxe Block Printing Kit

Get More Crafts Kits Go To: Silk Painting Kits Jacquard Silk Hoop Painting Fun Bag

Friday, November 13, 2009

Super Duper Art and Craft Activity Book


The Super Duper Art and Craft Activity Book is full of exciting craft activities made from materials found in and around the house. Don’t let boredom get to your children, instead get them involved in these 75 messy and not so messy activities.

The Sunny Day Fun projects include a summer birdhouse, twig doll, rock zoo, nature’s leaf, doodle table, sand dough, sand castings, mysterious masks and more. The other chapters of the book include Rainy Day Fun projects, Recycle It and Party and Gift Activities.

Friendship bracelets, personal pillowcases, funny photo box, scented soaps, mummy’s tomb, spoon puppets, rag dolls, wind chimes, paper quilt placemats, floating boats, mini snowstorm, pom-pom pipecleaner creations, squiggle art and more – the projects are exciting and easy to follow with the step-by-step instructions and illustrations. The materials needed can easily be found in and around the house so kids will discover how to re-use recycled household items like egg cartons and natural materials, including bark, rocks and sand..

This Super Duper Art and Craft Activity Book is designed for kids of all ages and will show them how to have fun making things on their own or together with friends.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Discovering Great Artists: Hands-on Art for Children in the Styles of the Great Masters

Discovering Great Artists: Hands-on Art for Children in the Styles of the Great Masters


If you and your children love art and want to learn more about artists from past centuries, this is a must-have book for you.

This detailed book informs you about many well-known and not so well-known artists. It is divided into four chapters. The first chapter is entitled “Renaissance & Post-Renaissance” and covers the artists of that era as well as their painting techniques and the materials they used. Each page introduces a different artist with a short biography, a sketch of the artist and ideas on how to recreate his painting style and technique.

Chapter 2 is about the Impressionists & Post-Impressionists, and Chapter 3 about the Expressionists & Surrealists. In Chapter 4 you will learn about Modern & Folk Art.

From Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Picasso, and Degas to Dali, Lichtenstein and O’Keefe – there is lots to learn about these famous artists and their individual painting styles. This book is not only for children but also for their parents – an exploration of art not to be missed!

Good News! You can get even more easy Beginners Crafts When you visit: Fimo Clay Ideas !





Thursday, November 5, 2009

Holiday Crafts - How to Make Festive Indian Corn Napkin Rings


 Holiday Crafts - How to Make Festive Indian Corn Napkin Rings

Holiday Crafts making something for the dinner table is always popular. These Festive Indian Corn Napkin Rings will really make your table look festive!

Autumn is a beautiful and colorful time of year. Fall flowers, the changing leaves, and seasonal crops all contribute to the vibrant colors of nature. These items provide the inspiration for a variety of crafts.

One of the most interesting of fall crops is Indian corn. Unlike most corn, its kernels come in lots of different colors. This makes it a welcome addition to cornucopias and other fall centerpieces. But you don't have to have the real thing to incorporate its unique look into your Thanksgiving table decorations. These napkin rings bear a striking resemblance to Indian corn, and they are easy and inexpensive to make.

What You Need
  • Construction paper (ideally orange, brown or another fall color, but any color will work)
  • Pencil with an eraser
  • Scissors
  • Tissue paper in yellow, orange and burgundy
  • White craft glue
Instructions

1. Place a piece of construction paper lengthwise. Draw a line about 1 ½ inches from the top to make a strip. Cut out.

2. Cut the strip in half.

3. Cut a piece of each color of tissue paper into 1-inch squares.

4. Spread a thin layer of the white craft glue over a 1-inch section of the construction paper strip.

5. Twist a square of the yellow tissue paper around the eraser end of the pencil. Push the twisted paper down onto the top corner of the glued section, and carefully remove the pencil.

6. Repeat step 5 with another piece of yellow construction paper placed next to the first one, and then with a piece of orange or burgundy tissue paper. Continue using two or three yellow pieces followed by an orange or burgundy piece until the glued area is completely covered.

7. Cover another 1-inch section of the construction paper strip with a thin layer of craft glue, and continue adding pieces of twisted tissue paper. Repeat until all but ½ inch of the strip is covered.

8. Bend the strip into a circular shape, with the tissue paper on the outside. Glue the ends together. Let dry completely before using.

Tips

* Each strip of construction paper makes two napkin rings. You should be able to make enough for all of your guests with a piece or two of construction paper.

* For best results, store the napkin rings empty and lying on their side until ready to use. This will keep the tissue paper from getting flattened.

* Be sure to roll napkins tightly so that they will fit easily into the napkin rings. If the glue does not hold, and you don't have time to glue them and let them dry again, try stapling the ends together.

Holiday Crafts really get everyone in the mood for the Holidays. Enjoy these Corn Rings!

Thanksgiving Arts And Crafts To Make - Make a Thankful Tree with Handprint Leaves


On Thanksgiving, we get the family together for a big, delicious dinner. We remember old times, and catch up on what's currently going on in everyone's lives. And, if we stick with tradition, we take time to reflect on the things we're thankful for.

Unfortunately, the idea of giving thanks is often forgotten during the holiday festivities. But there are ways we can encourage our children (and other children in the family) to think about the good things in their lives. This, one of our easy Thanksgiving Arts And Crafts To Make, the “thankful tree” craft works nicely, and it's also fun to make. Here's how to do it.

What You Need
  • Brown kraft paper
  • Construction paper in orange, red, yellow and brown
  • Pencil
  • Crayons, markers or pen
  • Scissors
  • Cork bulletin board
  • Thumbtacks or stapler with staples
Instructions

1. Using the pencil, draw a tree trunk with branches on the brown kraft paper. Make it large enough to fill up most of the bulletin board. Cut out and tack or staple to the bulletin board.

2. Have a child trace his or her hand onto a piece of the construction paper and cut it out.

3. Have the child use a marker, crayon or pen to write his or her name on the handprint, as well as something he or she is thankful for. When finished, tack or staple the “leaf” onto the tree trunk.

4. Ask each child to make a leaf, or more than one if so desired. Arrange the leaves on the tree so that it is evenly covered.

Tips

  • If you don't have a bulletin board, you could attach your thankful tree to a door or wall. If doing so, use thumbtacks for best results.
  • Adults can participate as well, but their handprints may be too large if you're using a small bulletin board. To remedy this, you could simply cut smaller leaf shapes and have them ready for your guests to write on when they arrive.
  • If you don't have enough handprints to cover your tree, have children make leaf rubbings by placing a leaf under a plain white piece of paper and rubbing the side of the crayon over it. Cut them out and add them to the tree to fill in the empty spaces.
  • Want a more authentic-looking tree? Place a small tree branch into a flowerpot and fill with sand, marbles or rocks so that it stands up straight. Use a hole punch to make holes in the handprint leaves and tie them to the branch with string or twine, letting them hang down a bit. You could even add a string of white miniature holiday lights if you like. This makes a lovely centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table!
This craft, one of our Thanksgiving Arts And Crafts To Make, will bring delight to everyone taking part. 

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Pottery Tool Kit


The tools in the Pottery Tool Kit are essential for potters, whether beginner or more advanced. The tools allow you to shape and mold clay, to add detail and texture to clay and any other soft surface, including plasticene, playdough or even papier mache.

The eight basic tools of the Pottery Tool Kit include:

  • Loop tool
  • Ribbon tool
  • Potter’s rib
  • Needle tool
  • Wood modeling tool
  • Sponge scraper
  • Wire clay cutter

The loop tool is essential to trim and refine the shape of your clay sculpture. The ribbon tool has a sharp edge that allows the clay to be cut, shaped and sliced. The needle tool is used to make holes and designs. The differently shaped ends of the basic tools make exciting designs and marks on your pieces of clay art and allow you to create beautiful pieces of pottery.

Have a look at The Pottery Toolkit

Activity Kit Deluxe Pottery Wheel Workshop


There are plenty of benefits to children working with clay. It enhances children’s development and learning, and it improves their dexterity as it uses and strengthens the various muscles in their fingers and hands. It also stimulates their imagination and increases their focus.

The Activity Kit Deluxe Pottery Wheel Workshop allows young children to experiment safely with a pottery wheel. The pottery wheel runs on 4 “D” batteries or an AC adapter, which need to be bought separately. The pottery wheel motor has adjustable speed which is controlled with a foot pedal. The included 2 lbs of clay does not need any baking and air dries.

The activity workshop also comes with a paintbrush, a sponge, 2 sculpting tools, a non-toxic paint and glaze kit, jewel-like decorations, cutting string and an instruction booklet.

See the pride on your children’s faces after they have created permanent pieces of art, like cups, bowls or vases. Your child’s self-esteem will soar, and, even more importantly, they’ll have lots of fun and enjoyment.so, give the Activity Kit Deluxe pottery Wheel Workshop a look!

Monday, October 19, 2009

Making Jewelry - Hooked on Hemp - Making Hemp Jewelry

Hemp has infinite uses. It can be used to produce paper, cloth, biodegradable plastic, fuel, and more. For the crafter, one of its most popular uses is in jewelry making. Hemp jewelry is attractive, durable, and popular with both women and men.   


Hemp is inexpensive and easy to work with. Currently available in a wide array of colors, it can be used to create bracelets, necklaces, and more. Hooked on Hemp by Design Originals is a good instruction book for those who adore the beauty of hemp jewelry.

Hooked on Hemp's 18 pages include 24 projects with step-by-step instructions. Its great detail makes it perfect for those who have never made hemp jewelry (or any kind of jewelry) before. It illustrates how to make all of the basic knots needed to make beautiful hemp jewelry, and includes large, easy to understand diagrams.

Hooked on Hemp's projects are great for young aspiring jewelry makers. The techniques are easy for kids to understand and implement. They can use them to whip up gifts for friends and family in no time, or to create pieces to add to their own jewelry collections.

All you need to get started making hemp jewelry is colored hemp cord and this guide. Beads can be added if you like, and you may wish to purchase a hemp jewelry board for added convenience. Both of these are optional, so it's possible to start making hemp jewelry with a very low initial investment.

Handmade hemp jewelry is both environmentally conscious and beautiful. It's also quite easy to make if you have good instructions. Hooked on Hemp offers pretty patterns and step-by-step instructions, so you can make your first piece in a snap.

Hooked on hemp jewelry ~ Janie Ray

Fun Halloween Crafts


One of the big joys of Halloween for parents is the chance to spend time with their children working on fun Halloween crafts. Halloween is a time to decorate your home with a completely different theme from the rest of the year. The scary and ghostly themes of Halloween give a wide scope for your children to show off their creativity and handiwork.

Fun Halloween crafts need not be expensive. Some of the best ideas use materials you may well already have in your home. Take, for example, the popular grocery bag ghost. Here is how you can easily make one, or several of them.

Start with a balloon, preferably a white one in keeping with the ghostly theme of Halloween. Blow it up. It's going to hang from the ceiling of your Halloween party room. If you have the opportunity to blow it up with helium so it can float freely and move around the ceiling that is an advantage, because your ghost will then be able to show up in unexpected places, just like a Halloween ghost.

Next, find a couple of white plastic grocery bags, the kind you get from your supermarket. Cut off the handles, and cut them down the sides to make a large flat rectangle. Cut this into strips, about the width of an adult's finger. Attach each strip firmly to the balloon with glue or sticky tape. Work around the lower third of the balloon hanging the strips so they hang like the tentacles of an octopus. You may want to discard any strips that have brightly colored printing, or hang them with the printed side inside.

Finally, use a marker pen and draw round eyes and a mouth on the balloon as a ghostly face in the act of screaming. You may prefer to use luminous paint for the face, and perhaps down some of the strips, so it will glow in the low lighting during your Halloween party.

Hang your ghost from the ceiling so your guests get gently touched by the hanging strips as they move around the room, and get the feeling they may have encountered a Halloween ghost.

Another craft project to hang from the ceiling is an egg carton spider. Cut out the egg cups to make the body of your spiders. Place them on a sheet of newspaper and paint them black, inside and out. This works best with egg cartons made of recycled paper rather than plastic. When they have dried, make four holes down one side, and repeat on the opposite side. Insert four long black pipe cleaners through each pair of holes to make eight spider's legs. Bend the legs so they look like spider's legs.

Add two eyes at the head of your spider. You could use white or luminous paint or the kind of stick-on googly eyes you can buy at craft shops. Insert a knotted thread through the center of the egg cup, so the spider can be suspended from the ceiling without tilting too much. Hang your large hairy spiders on their threads in places where they will scare your guests.

Fun Halloween crafts is a way to have fun without the dangers of going trick or treating. 



Friday, October 16, 2009

Halloween Crafts - Halloween Wreath Craft for Pre-School and Kindergarten Students

 Her is a fun Halloween Craft, making a Halloween Wreath.



This is a fun project that you may want to break up across a couple of days, so be sure to start a few days before Halloween. Mom, you can join in the fun as well and make a Halloween wreath of your own too!


Material List


  • Paper Plate (One per child/adult)
  • Scissors         
  • Leaves                       
  • Glue Sticks     
  • Orange Construction Papers                        
  • White Construction Paper
  • Black Construction Paper
  • Washable Black Marker
  • Black Yarn (optional)

Adult Preparation: (To Be Done Prior to Actual Wreath Making)


Cut the center from each paper plate prior to giving one to each child. These will be the base for the homemade wreaths.


Day 1: Grab the kids and head outdoors. 


Gather as many fallen leaves of different shapes and colors as you can find. Once you’ve collected enough leaves to cover each paper plate, head back inside and glue them to the paper plates. You can glue the leaves to cover the entire plate, randomly around the plate or even as a border around only the edge, whichever you prefer. Once you’ve glued the leaves to the paper plate, leave the plates to dry for 24 hours or at least overnight.


Day 2: Creativity


Depending on how much time you have to complete this project you can have the children do the next step after the leaves have been glued on, while you’re waiting for them to dry or you can make another day of it.


Let the children draw Halloween images on the construction paper. Here are some ideas for each color of paper:


Orange – Pumpkins (Use the black marker to draw the face on their pumpkins)


White – Ghosts, Mummies, Bones


Black – Cats, Witch Hats (You can use the yarn to put a tail on the cat and hair on the witches head if you’d like to put that under the hat)


Once the children have picked out and drawn which decorations they’ll be using, carefully cut them out and paste them to the wreath.


Tip: Pre-placement (before gluing) will give the child an idea of what the wreath will look like once it is all glued together. When the children are happy with the way the decorations are placed, it’s time to glue them to the leaves.


Again, allow the decorations to dry completely.


Day 3: Decorating Time


Congratulations! You’ve made your very own homemade Halloween wreath. Enjoy your child’s creation by hanging it on the front door or his or her bedroom door for all your friends and family to see and admire.

Do Have Fun With This Halloween Craft! 


 


Monday, October 12, 2009

How to Make Five Creepy and Frugal Toddler Halloween Costumes

 
How to Make Five Creepy and Frugal Toddler Halloween Costumes


Halloween is a favorite holiday for many kids. They love to dress up and get free candy! Toddlers are especially excited by the whole idea. Make your toddler a fun Toddler Halloween Costume this year. These frugal toddler Halloween costumes still have all the fun, but not all the cost!

There are lots of costumes available in costume shops and discount stores. But most of them are rather expensive, and they just aren't very imaginative. Besides, what's the fun of wearing the same costume that so many other people are wearing? Here are five homemade toddler costumes that are fun yet frugal.

1. Ghost 

If you want a simple yet scary costume, you can't go wrong with a ghost. All you need is a sheet and some scissors. Just cut the sheet to a length that won't trip your child when he walks, and cut out holes for the eyes. If you like, you could draw on a mouth or add some accessories to give your ghost its own unique style.

2. Scarecrow 

Scarecrow costumes are easy to make. Just dress your child in a flannel shirt and patched jeans or overalls. Tie a rope around her waist for a belt. Add a straw hat, and stick some straw up the sleeves of the shirt and legs of pants. Add some makeup to complete the look.

3. Mummy 

Mummies are super creepy, and making a mummy costume for your toddler won't cost much. All you need is a couple of rolls of gauze and some snug-fitting clothing in a light color. Dress the child, and wrap the arms, legs and body in the gauze. Wrap some around the head to finish.

4. Robot 

For this costume, you'll need a gray sweatsuit, a large box, some silver face paint and silver poster paint or aluminum foil. Cut the flaps off of one end of the box, and cut a hole out large enough for your child's head to fit through on the other end. Paint the box with silver paint, or cover it with aluminum foil. Make some buttons out of construction paper and glue them on. Dress your child in the sweats and box, and paint his face silver.

5. Spider 

With a black sweatsuit and some black tights, you can easily make a spider costume. Just stuff two pairs of tights with newspaper or fabric scraps, and pin one to each side of the back of the sweatshirt. String the “legs” up with fishing line, and tie them to the arms of the shirt to make them move in sync.

You don't have to be a professional designer to make a great Halloween costume for your child. With a little imagination and a few inexpensive supplies, you can whip up something creepy yet cute in no time. And you won't have to worry about your toddler being dressed just like all the other toddlers on the block!

Monday, October 5, 2009

How to Make a Spooky Halloween Fence Decoration

Give your outdoor Halloween Decorations a lift with a Spooky Halloween Fence Decoration


There are so many fun things about Halloween. Choosing a costume and dressing up are favorite aspects for some. For others, it's all about the candy. Still others enjoy decorating for the occasion.

Halloween arts and crafts involve more than just carving pumpkins. There's no limit to the creepy decorations you can create. This spooky fence decoration project is appropriate for both kids and adults.

What You Need

*7 craft sticks or popsicle sticks
*Raffia
*Foam Halloween shapes (pumpkins, ghosts, black cats, bats, etc.)
*Craft glue
*White paint
*Paintbrush
*Black fine point marker
*Newspaper

Instructions

1. Lay the craft sticks out on the newspaper. Paint them white on one side. Let dry. If desired, turn over and paint on the other side.

2. Lay four sticks vertically, side by side. Lay one stick across the bottom of the four vertical sticks, adjusting them if necessary to space them evenly. Glue the vertical sticks onto the horizontal one.

3. Place another stick horizontally across the four vertical sticks, about three-quarters of an inch from the top. Glue into place. Place the last stick halfway between the other two horizontal sticks and glue. When this is done, you should have a grid-like pattern. Let the glue dry.

4. Cut raffia into short pieces to make “grass.” Glue the grass onto the bottom horizontal strip.

5. Cut a piece of raffia about 5 inches long and loop it. Glue the ends to the back of the fence to make a hanger.

6. Arrange foam shapes on the fence, and glue them into place.

7. Use the fine point marker to add details. You might add detail to the foam shapes, make cracks on the fence or draw small spiders. Let glue dry before hanging.

Tips and Ideas

If you don't have any foam Halloween shapes, cut some shapes out of construction paper instead. Chenille stems may also be substituted for raffia.

Make a haunted house out of a cardboard box and some construction paper. Then make several of the fences as directed, but do not add the raffia loop for hanging. Instead, glue them together so that they stand up in a square or rectangular shape and place them around your haunted house. This makes a great Halloween centerpiece!

Instead of hanging your fence on a wall, make it into a magnet. Simply omit the raffia loop and glue a magnet on the back.

Draw a Halloween picture on a piece of construction paper, and glue your fence (without the raffia hanger) to the bottom of it to make a nice refrigerator or window decoration.

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Crafts Making Books - The Big Ass Book Of Crafts


The Big-Ass Book of Crafts is one of the fantastic crafts making books that is now available. This is a book of unique ideas to give your home the “wow” factor. Mark Montano, the author, has written a number of books. He is also a well-known top designer.

His craft book features craft projects that are unique and innovative but don’t cost the earth. Some of the projects include a baby head paper weight, Warhol-esque Ultrasuede iPod case, African mask patio chairs, wooden night-light boxes, duct tape furniture, granny chic pillows, designing your own stationery and others.

The book is divided into different sections including Outdoorsy, ideas on how to make the best of your backyard, Dishing It Out, tips on how to decorate plates with different techniques, You’ve Been Framed, unique picture framing ideas. Can I Have a Light, tips on how to decorate lamps, lanterns and chandeliers.

If you enjoy crafty projects and want to turn your home into something special, the Big-Ass Book of Crafts will give you more than enough fabulous project ideas for any budget and skill level.

This is one of the crafts making books that is worth to look at. I have to mention though, that if you have been doing crafts for years, you may find some of the crafts are ones you know already. At least it is a book that is worth a look at if you are looking for Crafts Making Books.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Homemade Halloween Trick Or Treat Bags - How to Make Your Own Halloween Treat Bags

Homemade Halloween Trick Or Treat Bags - How to Make Your Own Halloween Treat Bags


Kids love to dress up, so it's no wonder they love Halloween so much. And getting lots of free candy is the icing on the cake. Whether they go door to door or attend a Halloween party, they come home with bags full of sweet treats.

For adults (as well as some kids), handing out candy is the highlight of their Halloween. They enjoy seeing all of the kids in costume and adding to their candy stash. If they make treat bags ahead of time, it makes handing out candy quicker and easier.

You can buy Halloween treat bags at most grocery and discount stores. But wouldn't you rather give your trick-or-treaters something original? Here are some ideas for making your own Halloween treat bags.

* Use paper lunch bags. Have the kids paint pumpkins, ghosts, bats and other Halloween pictures on them. Let the paint dry, and embellish with glitter glue, googly eyes, pom poms and other fun stuff.

* Buy some small gift bags in Halloween colors such as orange, black or even white. Decorate them with Halloween stickers for quick and easy treat bags. Or if you prefer, have the kids cut out Halloween shapes and glue them on.

* Make treat bags out of paper cups. Use plain white regular or cone-shaped cups, and decorate them with glitter and/or paint. Let dry completely. Punch two holes near the rim of the cup, directly across from each other. Thread a gold, silver, orange or black chenille stem through the holes, and twist each end to secure. Bend into an arc shape to form a handle.

* Make haunted house treat holders out of pint-sized milk cartons. Cut off the top of the carton, just below where it folds to make the spout. Cover the outside of the carton with yellow construction paper, and glue into place. Cut a piece of brown construction paper to the same size, wrap it around the carton, but do not glue yet. Draw on doors and windows, remove the paper, and cut each door or window on three sides, forming a flap. Then glue the paper on, and let dry. Add decorations such as jack-o-lanterns, spiders and bats inside the windows and doors. Make a handle out of a chenille stem.

* Make your own bags out of paper. You can find templates online that show you how to cut and fold them. Some even come with Halloween motifs already printed on them.

Creating Halloween treat bags is a great family project. With everyone working together, you can create lots of unique bags in no time. When they're done, fill them with candy for a fun and memorable Halloween treat!

Halloween Slime Recipe - How to Make Yucky Halloween Slime


Here follows a Halloween Slime Recipe that contains borax that you need to be careful with and a safer Halloween Slime Recipe for younger children.

When October rolls around, you can find all kinds of scary and gross stuff in stores. From plastic spiders and hanging bats to fake blood and stick-on scars, it's many a kid's dream come true. And there's even fun stuff for those who scare easily, such as slime.

Slime looks and feels rather disgusting, but it's loads of fun. Kids love to squish it and use it in pretend play. But did you know that's it is easy and fun to make slime at home? It's also much more educational than buying it from the store. Here's how to do it.

BEWARE: Slime made from the Borax recipe should be kept away from children under three years of age, as Borax is toxic in high doses.

What You Need

*Warm water
*White craft glue
*Borax
*Two mixing bowls
*Measuring cups and spoons
*Stirring spoon
*Green food coloring

Instructions

1. Pour ¾ cup of water into one of the mixing bowls.

2. Add 1 cup of white glue to the water. Mix thoroughly.

3. Add a few drops of food coloring, and stir to see how dark it makes the mixture. Repeat until the desired coloring is achieved.

4. Pour 1/3 cup of water into the second bowl. Add 4 teaspoons of Borax and mix thoroughly.

5. Pour the Borax mixture into the glue mixture. Do not mix, just let stand for 1 minute.


Don't have any Borax handy? Here's another simple slime recipe you can try.


What You Need

*Water
*Corn Starch
*Green food coloring
*Mixing bowl
*Measuring cups

Instructions

1. Pour 1 cup of water into the bowl.

2. Add 1 cup of corn starch. Mix together with your hands until gooey and dough-like.

3. If the mixture is not thick enough, add more corn starch. If too thick, add more water. Adjust until desired consistency is reached.

4. Add a few drops of food coloring and mix with hands until evenly colored.



Tips

Green is the trademark slime color, but you can make it in any color you like. Add one or more colors of food coloring to create any shade you like.

Want glitter slime? Just mix in some loose glitter when you add the food coloring.

Store slime in a plastic container with a lid or a zip-top sandwich bag to keep it from drying out.

Cover the work area with newspaper when making slime to prevent messes. It's also a good idea to protect surfaces, furniture and carpet when your child is playing with slime, as it could stain or stick to them.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Halloween Makeup Kits Vampire Kit

Halloween Makeup Kits Vampire Kit


Looking for a scary vampire make-up kit for Halloween? The Halloween makeup Vampire Kit from Star Costumes has been the most popular Halloween vampire makeup for almost 20 years.

It includes instructions and advice on how to change your looks to become a realistic and ghastly looking vampire or vampires with fangs. It features:

* Vampire Foundation
* Four Color Vampire Palette
* Black Pencil
* 0.25oz of stage blood
* Fangs
* Brush and sponge applicators
* and color instructions.

The kit includes make-up to last for about 4 – 6 applications.

Enjoy your next Halloween party with this fantastic vampire makeup kit.

Where to buy: www.starcostumes.com


Sunday, September 20, 2009

Halloween Crafts: Eerily Elegant Decors




Halloween Crafts: Eerily Elegant Decors is a book written by Kasey Rogers and Mark Wood, both accomplished and known actors and lovers of throwing fantastic and goulish Halloween parties.

Their book features 50 innovative and stunning Halloween projects, from table decorations, scary sculptures to punch. These projects come with step-by-step instructions and photographs and are straight forward and simple to create. Each project comes with a list of materials needed and a list of contacts for the more difficult materials used.

Examples of the included projects are:

* Creepy Drippy Candles
* Banquet of the Goblin King Centerpiece
* Baby Gremlins
* Banshee Banners
* Red Imp Punch
* Skull Orchard Statute
* The Goblin King
* Harvest of Skulls
* Instant Ancestors
* Brew Some Gruesome Punch Glasses
* Goblin Masques
* Scarecrow Wreath
* and many others

If you enjoy decoration your home with spooky Halloween things, this book offers lots of great projects for the whole family.

Get:Halloween Crafts: Eerily Elegant Decor