Has the pandemic coaxed out your DIY side like it has me? I mean, I actually took a pair of shears to my own hair! I was emboldened by vanity, I guess. Before now, my only ‘DIY project’ was a friendship bracelet. But, from the looks of my hair, I’d better stick with handicrafts. And, if they’re not too shabby, maybe dole out extras as gifts. I feel the personal touch and time spent making them is appreciated, no matter how they turn out. So, if you have a little time to spare and want to get creative, here are some DIY crafts you may actually consider making (or gifting!)
Macrame Holiday Bracelet
This fun take on the friendship bracelet pictured above adds holiday cheer to any outfit! You will need:
3 yards of green and red #20 hemp cord, glass seed beads, scissors and tape
Gather the red and green pieces of hemp together. Fold in half. Then tie an overhand knot ½ inch away from the fold to form a loop. Tape the loop onto a stable work surface such as a table or desk. Arrange the cords with the green cords in the middle. Gently straighten the green cords and tape ends in place at the opposite end. Tie 9 square knots with the red cords.
See the video below for how to make square knots:
Free the green holding cords and tape the red cords in place. Have your beads ready to add as you work. Tie one square knot with the green cord. Make the 2nd square knot 1/8” from the first. Tighten and slide the up to the first knot so that a loop is formed on both sides. Then, tie the 3rd knot 1/4 “ from the second knot and push up. Continue tying each knot an additional 1/8” farther from the previous knot. As you work, the loops will lengthen like branches on a tree. After you have tied the 8th knot, add a final bead for the trunk. Switch by taping down the green cords and using the red cords to finish off your bracelet in like manner. Secure the bracelet with an overhand knot. Before trimming, be sure to leave enough extra cording at the ends to tie on the bracelet. Finally, wrap around your wrist and tie off.
DIY Headbands
Headbands are trending. Personalize with fabrics that reflect personal color and/or pattern choices. Construct a DIY padded headband or give a twist for a top knot style headband.
Drink Coasters
Add some functional art to any home. These colorful DIY coasters use Sharpies™ and alcohol to create a cool marbling effect.
Remembrance Clay Keepsake
This DIY handprint keepsake will be a cherished memento for every child and parent.
DIY Statement T-shirts
Who doesn’t have something to say these days? Easily emblazon anything using iron-on letters or stencils with DIY statement t-shirts.
DIY Patterned Box
Transform a plain wooden box into a pretty decoupage box by gluing wasabi tape and magazine clippings onto its surface. This trinket box can be designed for all ages and interests.
Did you visualize yourself making one of the DIY crafts you pinned but never got around to doing? Or, maybe you recalled a school art project? Once, in elementary school, we were each given a wooden spoon. Then, some yarn, markers, and fabric swatches and told to make it look like our Moms. Oh, the pressure! I chose the wrong hair and eye color (I know) but still felt proud of myself when I handed it to her on Mother’s Day.
I hope I’ve given you the extra little nudge you needed. 🙂 A special thank you to all the bloggers mentioned in this post for sharing doable DIY crafts with us!