When it comes to Halloween decorating, skeletons are featured favorites.
T-Rex Skeleton
Terrifying dragons and dinosaurs are a few of the latest décor entries.
Saber Tooth Tiger Skeleton
Wild dogs and Sabre Tooth tigers are sure to follow.
Close-Up Rooster Skeleton
What about ferocious chickens? Ferocious may be a bit of a stretch, but “cocky” is a well-earned title.
Confident & Cocky
At a farm near my home, I saw a defiant rooster face off against a slow-moving minivan. That bird crowed at the top of his lungs. I wonder if roosters use curse words. The bird won the battle of wills! Apparently, roosters always have the right of way. lol.
Unpainted Rooster Skeleton
There are many Halloween bird skeletons, including vultures, crows, ravens, and ducks. When I saw this rooster, I knew I had to do something to make him stand out in a crowd.
How to Paint a Rooster Skeleton:
Inspiration
A rooster’s crown and wattle tend to be red, but anything goes for the feathers.
Inspiration
Because my favorite color is blue, I chose inspirational photos accordingly, but you can choose whatever colors you prefer.
Supplies
Supplies:
Rooster Skeleton (12-1/2” high x 11-1/2” long x 7-1/2” wide) sold at JoAnn Crafts
Acrylic Paints – red, black, metallic sapphire blue, & metallic periwinkle blue
Paintbrushes
Painted Head Details
Brush red paint onto both sides of the two most recognizable traits of roosters, the comb and wattle. Darken the eye sockets with black paint.
Unpainted Rooster Tail
As you might imagine, roosters are very proud of their plumage. Those tail feathers should be bold and colorful to make their presence known and to impress the ladies!
Painted Tail – Option 1
Paint the tail black, which tends to be the most common tail feather color.
Painted Tail – Option 2
Paint the tail a combination of metallic green and metallic blue.
Painted Tail – Option 3
Paint the tail metallic blue. I love the iridescent blue feathers shown in the two inspirational photos. What bothered me about the skeleton was the five bones in the tail, which resemble a metallic hand.
Defining the Tail Feathers
Carefully apply a line of black paint down the length of each tail bone and angled short strokes to create a feathered appearance.
Side by Side
Minimally painted head details versus fully defined tail feathers. If you are satisfied with your results, you could stop at this point. Additional steps below will give the rooster a more frightening appearance.
Painted Eye Detail
Outline both eyes with red paint. This changes the entire expression with a few easy strokes.
Eerie Glow from Within
Paint the inside of the ribs with metallic periwinkle paint. Many Halloween skeletons come with LED lights hidden inside to illuminate the rib cage. This one did not come with lights, but the metallic paint produces a similar visual effect.
Joint Details
Add red on each of the ball joints for the wings and the knees.
Unpainted Rooster versus Completed Rooster
As you can see, this rooster has come a long way from its humble beginnings. At a distance, you can easily recognize it, and the extra painted details catch the light, drawing your attention to this demanding and amusing creature.
For more ideas, please click here to read last year’s post on skeleton painting.
Have you wondered what it would be like to be a superhero, a celebrity, or a movie monster? Halloween opens the door to adventure. The stage is set, the orchestra is warming up, and an audience of admirers eagerly awaits your arrival. Who or what will you be? Let us find out together…
Basic Costume Building Blocks:
Mask
Sometimes all you need is a great mask! Frankenstein’s Monster & the Wolfman are classics. Monster gloves would be nice additions to complete the look. The only downside is that masks can be hot to wear. Be sure to apply character-appropriate makeup to stay in character without it.
Makeup
Makeup tutorials make it easy to create any character. Be sure to read the makeup labels before you buy to avoid skin irritation. To elevate the creepiness factor, the man in the photo above is wearing white monster contacts in his eyes.
Costume
Whether you prefer DIY or readymade, the key to your success is a great costume. Like the idea of “one and done?” All you need is a one-piece dress to become Zena Warrior Princess. Confidence is an absolute necessity! The boots, wristbands, and a weapon are optional.
Accessories
When creating a character, never underestimate the importance of accessories. Can you imagine Indiana Jones without his hat and whip? Without fangs, Count Dracula is just a guy in a tuxedo. (lol)
Attitude
Musketeers cloak themselves in courage, honor, and dedication to their king. Think about how your character thinks, speaks, and acts and then exhibit those traits. Have fun with it!
Cast of Characters:
Mermaid
If you own a bikini top, you are halfway to a mermaid costume. All you need is the tail. Make sure you can comfortably walk and adjust the tail as needed.
Butterfly
This sexy ensemble requires a one-piece black swimsuit and butterfly wings. Antennae are optional. For a less revealing version, wear a black jumpsuit or top with leggings.
Scarecrow
The Scarecrow from the “Wizard of Oz” is a classic favorite. All this costume requires is a great hat and handfuls of straw. Any plaid shirt will work, and do not forget to smile and move as the actor did in the original movie.
The Joker
This is a perfect recreation of the 1960’s television version of the Joker, played by Cesar Romero. Although he is a criminal, this early version of the character is amusing and lighthearted compared to his diabolical present-day counterpart.
Game of Thrones
True to the “Game of Thrones” characters, this couple successfully combined, costumes, makeup, attitude, and accessories, including the little dragon looking over her shoulder.
Medieval Sorceress & Gothic Witch
In the Wizard of Oz, whose side are you on – Glenda the Good Witch or the Wicked Witch of the West? Actors enjoy playing the villain to break out of their comfort zones in favor of a walk on the wild side.
Fantasy Owl Woman
You might want to create a completely original character, such as this owl woman. Like a living sculpture, she is beautiful and intriguing.
Red Fox
Those mesmerizing green eyes draw you in for a closer look. The details are incredible. The mask blends seamlessly with the costume, and the eye openings are cleverly hidden in the corners of the fox’s eyes. It is utterly amazing workmanship.
Court Jester & Evil Clown
If you want to be a clown, you have a decision to make…Will you be an amusing entertainer like a court jester? Or terrifying like Pennywise in Stephen King’s “IT”?
Skeletons
There is an extraordinary level of anatomical detail in the skeleton makeup. Look at those teeth! And the half-masks are an illusion achieved through expertly applied makeup! The white contacts, worn by the skeleton on the right, produces a piercing cold stare that feels uncomfortable, even from the photo.
Steampunk & Plague Doctor
The secret to a steampunk costume is incorporating metallic details, such as studs, chains, gears, and anything else inspired by 19th century mechanization. The Plague Doctor on the right is terrifying! How could he be a medical professional? He does not appear to be human!
Anime
Every detail of this costume, from the bows in her pink hair to the tips of her knee-high boots, is a shining example of anime.
Fantasy Princess
This costume is so beautifully coordinated. The color of the faux fox stole matches the colors in her dress. Intricate gold patterns are repeated on her dress, her jewelry, and the beads in her hair.
Medusa
Medusa have never looked so fierce and fabulous. Wriggling snakes form the headpiece, topped by a golden crown. The python print dress has snakelike scroll design accents. Special effects snakeskin patterned makeup creates the illusion of snakes emerging from her cheeks and forehead. Yikes!
Reptilian Tree
What do you get when you combine a human, a reptile, and a tree? You get a fascinating creature covered in gnarly roots and raised scales, with a disturbing face and mysterious, unknown intentions.
Samurai Warrior
Psychological battles begin long before any physical confrontations. With this fear-inducing costume, potential opponents will choose to flee rather than trying their luck.
Day of the Dead
When it comes to Day of the Dead costumes, this man must be royalty. The elaborate feathered headdress, staff with life-size human skulls, and tricolor palette ensure he will stand out in a crowd.
Maleficent
This vengeful fairy has great magical powers and a commanding physical presence. The raven sitting atop her staff is a reminder of her connection to nature as protector of the moors. Is she thinking of something witty to say or deciding what to conjure up next? We are probably better off not knowing.
Lord of the Rings: Orc
Tolkien would be proud of this battle-ready orc. The distressed piecemeal garments, weapon in hand, hidden dagger in his boot, and defiant stance are hallmarks of this malevolent Lord of the Rings character.
Amazon Warrior
At first, the soft feminine garments and feathered headdress might lead you to believe she is a vulnerable native princess. But you would be wrong! The multi-pronged weapon, metal-studded glove, and cold calculating stare hint at the powerful fighting capabilities of this formidable Amazon Warrior.
Captain Jack Sparrow
Captain Jack Sparrow is one of the most recognizable characters in the world, which means you need to get the details correct. Check out the tattooed fingers, the braided beard, and the weather-worn hat! All of Jack’s quirky mannerisms and facial expressions have been incorporated into this authentic performance. I wonder how often people request his autograph. Outstanding work!
Venetian Sun
In the “Masquerade” scene in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera, the cast sings, “Look around there’s another mask behind you.” During the Venetian Carnival, just when you think you have seen the most exquisite costume ever made, a better one pops up behind it, leaving you awestruck.
Cosplay
Do you enjoy making your own costumes? Most of the extraordinary costumes shown in this post are from the world of Cosplay. There are competitions for best handmade costumes, and these people are incredibly talented. They take costumes to the ultimate level, often equally the wardrobes created for multimillion dollar films. It is fascinating to see, even if you are not into DIY. Enjoy!
For many, Halloween is the most wonderful time of the year. People go all out decorating their homes, and there is always something new to thrill and delight. Let’s look at some decorating ideas for designing the Halloween display of your dreams…or should I say nightmares?
Creatures of the Night:
Bats
Bats certainly have a way of making humans squirm. Keep your visitors on their toes by hanging bats upside down from tree branches, lightly swaying in the breeze on invisible fishing tackle.
Crows
A crow’s habit of feeding upon dead animals and loud calls are bound to cause a shiver or two. Mount a couple crows on tombstones or in a prominent spot, such as atop a wall or the edge of your roof.
Owls
This predator silently soars across the night sky, seeing all with his glowing eyes. There are some motion-activated owls that turn their heads and hoot.
Spiders
Most people instinctively shy away from spiders. The tarantula-sized spiders shown above are painted with glow-in-the-dark paints. Place them along porch railings or on the outer edge of steps. You also might want to have several crawling up a wall near the front door.
Dragons & Black Cats
Many people are superstitious about black cats. When lit from behind, cat silhouette yard stakes have an eerily realistic appearance. Inflatable dragons glisten and change colors, while animated dragons have glowing eyes, frightening sound effects and “breath fire” courtesy of a fog machine.
Rats
Sewer rats are bound to cause a few goosebumps. Just like the photo above, place a few rats on or around pumpkins to create a creepy atmosphere.
Witches
If you want to charm your guests, witches are sure to please. Life-size, motion-activated witches greet visitors with glowing eyes, casting spells, and stirring cauldrons. For a more humorous effect, a wall or tree-mounted crashing witch on a broom is sure to make everyone smile.
Headless Horseman
“The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” is a classic. Although you probably won’t have a horse on the lawn, you could create a dummy with a glowing pumpkin head. New this year is an animated life-size headless horseman holding an axe in one hand and a talking pumpkin in the other.
Legendary Movie Monsters
Wolfman, Frankenstein’s Monster, Count Dracula – so many possibilities. You could make a dummy by stuffing an old shirt and pair of slacks and buy a rubber mask to create your monster. If you or a family member are budding actors, dress up in costumes to unnerve visitors on Halloween night.
Zombies
“The Walking Dead” has been a popular television series for years, spawning a zombie craze in movies, merchandise, and Halloween décor. If horror is your goal, zombies are the go-to characters.
Ghosts
Ghosts can serve as props or as live action creatures. Halloween night, if you really want to keep trick or treaters on edge, place a life-size ghost among your yard decorations. Go outside several times wearing an identical costume to stir up chills and thrills as you move across the lawn. Kids love theatrics like this and will return every year to find out what you will do next.
Scary Props:
Carved Pumpkins
Pumpkins are a Halloween staple. Depending upon your preferences and skills, you can carve or paint designs to frighten or amuse your guests. If you have had trouble in the past with squirrels eating fresh pumpkins, buy craft pumpkins, which can be carved and displayed for years to come.
Tombstones
With tombstones, draped in spider webs, and scattered bones, this haunted cemetery is ready for visits from the living.
Coffin & Skeletons
If you like working with wood, you could build a coffin and reuse it with different monsters each year. If the weather cooperates, or if you have a covered porch, a cardboard coffin can be easily made. Skeletons and skulls can be frightening or funny. It’s all up to you.
Kid Friendly Scarecrow
Scarecrows are easy to make and inexpensive to buy. Secure them to tree trunks, or place a few on a bale of hay with pumpkins and a few crows for a bit of humor.
Frightening Scarecrow
This horrifying scarecrow will keep crows, as well as people, at a distance. The vicious teeth are an unexpected and unsettling detail.
Spider Webs
Our brains tell us that where there are webs, there are spiders. Drape webs over bushes and railings. A bag of plastic spiders has great impact or buy one large spider to instill fear.
Lighting:
Halloween String Lights
Pumpkins, Bats, Skulls, Witch Hats, and Ghosts are just a few of your string light options. Some are the plug-in variety, but for more flexibility there are also battery-operated versions.
Pumpkin Lamppost Cover
This lamppost cover is an easy way to show your Halloween spirit, and it acts like a beacon attracting Trick or Treaters like moths to a flame.
Luminaries
Luminaries are easy to make by simply drawing Halloween designs, such as cats and bats, with Sharpie markers on glass jars. For lighting, burn tealights or use battery-operated candles.
Special Effects:
Spooky Sounds & Fog
Sound is an often-overlooked element in Halloween displays. Howling wolves, dragging chains, maniacal laughter, growling monsters, and high-pitched shrieks are among the many scary soundtracks. Fog provides additional layers of Halloween ambiance.
Lightning & Thunder
Conjure up the perfect storm by using theatrical spotlights, which project lightning bolts upon your house, accompanied by claps of thunder.
Setting the Scene: Finished Halloween Displays
Witch’s Brew
Wondering what it would be like to have a close encounter with a witch? A cauldron, bubbling over with glowing fog, rests upon a flickering faux fire. With an ancient broom, a book of magic spells and a bottle of her latest potion in hand, this witch chills and thrills guests of all ages. Live action will astound visitors. All you need is a costume and have a few clever “incantations.”
Haunted Graveyard
How do you create a haunted graveyard? Start with tombstones, and then add a red-eyed skeleton climbing out of an open grave, bathed from below by an eerie yellow light, as ghostly apparitions take shape in wisps of fog. An orange moon in the nearby tree completes this otherworldly scene. Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” would be the perfect theme song for this frightening display.
Comical Family Fun
Is it possible to celebrate Halloween in a kid-friendly way? A pumpkin family reunion is a good place to start. Trick or Treaters can pose for selfies with this cheerful, welcoming display. At night, the bright orange glow will intrigue everyone, drawing them nearer for a closer look.
If You Build It, They Will Come
Want to attract attention? Consider your desired theme and select a fascinating focal point, such as the gigantic cat in the above photo. With colors, shapes, textures, and proportions in mind, continue adding props and characters, creating a multi-layered composition to delight viewers. Viewers will discover something new each time they see it. Having a few characters spring to life would be the cherry on top of this theatrical masterpiece.
Trunk or Treat
Are you participating in a community trunk or treat event? Don’t forget to decorate your car. There are Halloween decorations made specifically for trunk or treating. If your furry best friend rides along, a pet costume would be adorable, and the kids will love it!
Halloween brings out the kid in all of us. Do you have a favorite decoration? Have any suggestions to share with readers? Please note your thoughts in the comments section. Thanks for reading and sharing.
Even on a gloomy midwinter’s day, sunlight filters through stained glass, dazzling the eyes and enlightening the mind with all its glorious colors. Stained glass windows can be found everywhere, from churches and hotels to cruise ships and homes. First and foremost, it is a beautiful art form, but there is more to this than meets the eye. Let’s dig a little deeper into the world of stained glass.
Traditional Stained Glass
There are two types of stained glass:
1. Traditional Stained Glass – Individual pieces of glass soldered together, as shown above. This labor-intensive process is well-worth the effort, but it also adds to the expense of the finished piece. Additional details may be painted by hand on the interior face of the glass.
Painted Glass (aka Enamelled Glass)
2. Painted Glass – Designs are painted on glass with special pigments containing ground glass, which must be fired in a kiln to permanently fuse the colors to complete the process.
With or Without
Minute details, such as this fish’s fins, scales, and lively expression, have been hand painted to create a one-of-a-kind aquatic treasure. With bold colors and thoughtful design, the lovely rose, shown above, can stand on its own without the need for hand-painted embellishments.
Close Encounters
This colorful contemporary glass reminds me of the musical light board in the movie, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.” The soft glowing colors and textured glass make you wonder what awaits inside.
Forever Yours
Delicately painted white blossoms, set against a bold red and green background, will flower for eternity.
A Rose by Any Other Name
Rose windows adorn many churches around the world. If you ever wondered what it would be like to stand inside a kaleidoscope, this is your chance to find out.
Stairway to Heaven
Stained glass panels entice the viewer to follow the spiral path upward toward the heavenly white light.
Tell Me a Story
Truly a picture is worth a thousand words. Today we take reading for granted, but in the past illiteracy was common. Story telling with pictures enabled everyone to learn. Some windows depicted detailed biblical scenes, while others were more abstract with easily understood symbolism.
On the Grid
A strong rectilinear grid, repetitious patterns, and a soft blue background unify this harmonious ceiling design. The free form, brilliant colors, and contrasting, copper architectural details provide an interesting focal point in this cruise ship lounge.
Heads Up
Glass dome decorative motifs are complimented by the plaster architectural ornamentation. The glass dome on the right is framed by metallic gold trim and adorned with metallic blue spheres, drawing the eye upward toward this playful stained glass focal point.
In the Eye of the Beholder
Context & symbolism go hand in hand. In a church, a white dove usually symbolizes the Holy Spirit, but in secular architecture it is a sign of peace or a celebration of nature. Stained glass in churches is often donated as memorials. Did you know the artist often painted the face of an angel or saint to resemble a deceased member of the donor’s family? You and I see an angel, but the family sees Grandma Agnes.
A Little Piece of History
Instead of painting on canvas or sculpture, historical figures and events have been honored in stained glass.
Eternal Spring
This beautiful Art Nouveau masterpiece includes a portrait as well as a very lush floral landscape in celebration of springtime.
“Building” an Addition
This window visually expands the architectural space, making the building and property feel stately and grand. It can also obscure an unsightly view, while providing scenic eye candy for the viewer.
It’s a Jungle Out There
Several artistic tricks are used to create this lively wild jungle, including perspective, overlapping images, and the shape of the individual glass pieces.
A Grand Illusion
Vibrant colors and clever design are the keys to this amazing stained-glass window. The play of light and shadow, three-dimensional rendering, and concealing most of the lead strips, creates the illusion of Christ standing in front of the window.
Let There Be Light
This may look like a painting in a frame, but it is all stained glass, including the “frame.” You may not be able to tell from the photo, but this “window” is on an interior wall! At this point, you probably have one question: How could the glass glow without sunlight? I’m glad you asked! A light fixture, either fluorescent or LED, is recessed into the wall. A sheet of white glass conceals the light bulbs or tubes. The stained-glass is the final layer. Turn on the light and you will have the full colorful effects without the sun!
I hope you enjoyed our little exploration and picked up a few ideas to incorporate stained glass into your life. Until next time…
If you are a cookie monster, every day is “Cookie Day!” Yum!
There are so many varieties – chocolate, butter, sugar, almond, and chocolate chip, just to name a few. Maybe we could munch our way through the list of the most popular cookies and discover our favorites as we go. You will probably be hungry before you reach the end of this post, so grab a few cookies and I’ll wait right here. Okay, let’s begin…
Black & White Cookies
Black & White cookies, also known as half-moons, may have frosting or fondant in those two signature colors.
Butter Cookies
Sweet creamy butter makes these cookies irresistible, with or without decoration.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate chip is probably the most popular cookie. Chocolate aficionados satisfy their craving by adding chocolate chunks or by mixing cocoa in the batter. Instead of cake, many people celebrate their birthdays with 15” chocolate chip cookies decorated with icing and candles.
Chocolate Crinkles
To create the unique crackle patterns, chocolate dough is formed into a ball and rolled in powdered sugar. The patterns appear during baking and no two are exactly alike.
French Meringue
Egg whites are the main ingredient in this recipe. The star shape is created with a piping bag.
Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread smells so great while it is baking. The cookies can be cut into any shape and are often decorated with icing.
Gingersnaps
Gingersnaps can be crunchy or soft depending on how long they are baked. The crispy version is good for dipping in hot chocolate.
Jelly Filled Cookies
To make these jelly filled cookies, you will need two cookie cutters – one small and one large. Layer two cookies on top of each other, with apricot, strawberry, cherry, or raspberry filling. The bottom cookie is solid, while the top cookie has a small cut out in the center. To finish, shake powdered sugar on top.
M&M Cookies
Follow the chocolate chip cookie recipe, substituting M & M’s candy instead of chocolate chips. If you do not like chocolate, add cinnamon or peanut butter chips as a tasty alternative.
Macarons
Almond flour and confectioner’s sugar are the main ingredients in these sweet cookies. The fillings come in a wide assortment, including fruit, chocolate, and vanilla.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookies are a staple in kid’s lunches.
Orange Cookies
These cookies have orange zest in the dough as well as the icing. Substituting lemon or lime zest will provide sweet and tart alternatives.
Peanut Butter Cookies
As kids, we eat peanut butter all the time, so it follows that this would be one of the most popular cookies for adults too. Use either creamy or crunchy peanut butter, and you might want to try adding chocolate chips for that awesome peanut butter cup flavor.
Snickerdoodles
Snickerdoodles taste like cinnamon and sugar with a bit of a tang from cream of tartar. The dough balls are usually rolled in cinnamon and sugar prior to baking.
Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies are another classic. With sugar in the batter and on top, this sweet treat is sure to satisfy.
Thumbprint Cookies
As you probably guessed from the name, use your thumb to make a divot in the top of each cookie, and fill it with fruit filling or a Hershey’s Kiss, as shown in the photo.
So many cookies! You simply cannot eat just one! What is your favorite cookie? Let me know in the comments section.
When it comes to photo editing, creativity truly has no limits. You can make it rain, perform death-defying stunts, or build a civilization on the rings of Saturn. That is a powerful tool! With the right software, such as Corel Paint Shop Pro or Adobe Photoshop, you can turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. Here are some fun photo-editing ideas to explore:
Playful Wildlife
If you can find two animals or insects with similar coloring, combining the two will be more successful. Placing the new creatures against a natural background enhances the believability of the illusion.
Child’s Play
Kids do the most adorable things. Photo editing makes the impossible possible. All you need to do is find a cool background image and insert your family members for some entertaining results.
Guess What I did on Vacation?
We all take vacation pictures, and of course sometimes they don’t quite come out the way we planned. With software, you can straighten images and you might as well add a few embellishments just for fun.
Sweet Dreams
Babies are probably the most popular subjects for photography. Have some fun with your child’s photos on cards, invitations, and to share with family and friends.
A Great Read
Surprise the book lover in your family with a one-of-a-kind portrait, celebrating their favorite pastime. The key to this illusion is the light and shadow throughout the composition.
A Trick of the Light
Lighting makes all the difference for this Irish tree tunnel. The photo on the left has a fanciful, playful atmosphere, where you might expect to spot unicorns or leprechauns. The image on the right looks and feels dark, desolate, and ominous – a perfect haunt for banshees.
Project Runway
Everyone is familiar with runway fashions, but this bride takes us above and beyond our wildest expectations.
By the Light of the Moon
Going to a prom or a formal event is a milestone event. Commemorate that special evening with an equally memorable keepsake.
Sleeping Beauty?
This photo looks so real that it gives me shivers!
He Said She Said
She says: “If I remain very still, he won’t see me!” He says: “Hey! This must be my lucky day! Breakfast is served!”
What is so Funny?
Instead of fear, this image is amusing. The tilt of their heads, the sunlight upon fur and hair, and the clever way the weeds frame the subjects makes you wonder if they know something we don’t.
Fairytales with Attitude
The neutral color palette unifies this otherworldly image. The tiniest details, from the individual strands of her hair to the sunlight streaming through the leaves of a tree, have been meticulously rendered. The light in her eyes and the special effects surrounding the apple imply fierce confidence and power. In this version of the fairy-tale, Snow-White kicks the evil Queen’s butt.
T-Rex Attack
I realize high-definition technology is constantly evolving, but this is way over the top! The woman looks terrified, and the T-Rex is equally menacing. The stark walls keep your attention focused upon the action without distractions. I think it would be interesting to shine light upon the T-Rex to cast a larger-than-life shadow upon the fireplace, which would tower over the woman.
Motocross Racing
Tires grind the track surface in search of traction, sending dirt flying, as this motocross competitor races to the finish line in the palm of your hand! Wow! Very realistic!
Motocross on Steroids
In an alternate reality, why race upon a fixed dirt track when you can blaze a new trail across the waves, with nothing but white foam and sea spray in your wake?
The Desert Meets the Ocean
Bringing water to the desert is no easy task, especially if you have to carry this heavy burden upon your back. The well-defined tortoise shell, the bubbles in the water, and the swimmer with dolphins combine to create this amazing three-dimensional image. The light penetrates the water, as if the sun is shining upon the ocean’s surface. The stark contrast of the blues and browns draws the viewer into this fascinating image.
I hope you enjoyed this exploration of photo editing software and feel inspired to give it a try. You probably have lots of photos on your phone, tablet, or laptop right now, just waiting to be transformed into a treasured memory, a humorous gift, or a unique work of art. What will it be? You decide!
It’s hard to believe the summer is over. Where did the time go? We pack away our beach toys and the kids go back to school. Autumn’s arrival signals the coming changes in nature. It’s time to change your décor and update your home with a few of your own handmade creations. Below are a few photos to inspire your next fall wreath project:
Silk leaves can be easily arranged from lightest to darkest. This decoration can be hung upon a door or used as a centerpiece on your dining table. Additional leaves can be sprinkled upon the table to enhance the autumn ambiance.
This wreath has a red, green and yellow color scheme. Coleus plants have the most beautiful leaves in blended shades of purple, burgundy, green, pink and red.
Orange peppers and berries bring bursts of color to this lush green leaf wreath. In cooler climates, genuine fruits and veggies will last from several days to several weeks depending upon the type. Warm locations will require the use of faux produce, which will last for years to come.
A straw or grapevine ring serves as a base for this festive wreath made from dried grasses and berries. Raffia ribbon and a simple wooden heart and nautilus seashell complete the look.
If you happen to have pine trees on your property, collect the pinecones to make this lovely wreath, with the addition of seedpods, and faux cherries and berries for pops of color.
This is a great beginner’s wreath and it’s easy to change for every season. Simply wrap a straw wreath with overlapping ribbon. The large bow also serves as a hanger.
Whether you live near the beach or near a forest, driftwood or twigs are available in abundance. A little Spanish moss finishes this decoration in a style suitable for Mother Nature herself.
This wreath is all about the abundant harvest, made with dried grasses, wheat, and a few silk flowers. If you have a wheat allergy, substitute corncobs or dried flowers.
Celebrate Autumn’s favorite color with orange flowers and berries, accented with touches of maroon and green.
Greet your guests at the door with a lovely fall wreath. To make one, start with a grapevine wreath base. Tie or glue on pumpkins, gourds, pinecones and berries. As an added burst of color, glue red and orange silk leaves on poster board and secure it to the back.
Mickey Mouse fans will love this festive decoration, which will adorn your home with a bit of whimsy from fall through Halloween.
Hydrangeas, berries, and dried fruit adorn an English ivy wreath. As Thanksgiving approaches, replace purple and blue flowers with more seasonal reds and oranges.
While you are gathering your wreath making supplies, consider including something unexpected, such as this mushroom.
How about this adorable little hedgehog? You could also use a squirrel, a baby fox or fawn, or any little woodland creature you can find at craft stores or online. In a place of honor, centered upon your front door, it’s sure to make your guests smile.
Who says fall wreaths must be particular colors? This gorgeous purple, blue, and green wreath would look amazing all year long. What is your favorite color? There are no rules, so go for it!
So many fall decorations can be made with found objects, such as pinecones, acorns, leaves, etc. It’s a nice time of year to take a walk and admire Nature’s changing colors. Why not get the whole family together to enjoy the fresh air and collect a few twigs or ornamental leaves along the way? Time spent with family is a precious gift, and the crafts you make will remind you of these shared adventures.
Dessert is a wonderful thing. Do you ever find yourself checking out the dessert menu before looking at the entrees? I do. In fact, I had a craving for something sweet while working on this post. You have been warned! Proceed if you dare! Below, you will find lots of desserts to tempt your willpower.
Baked Alaska
Wondering what Baked Alaska is? Start with a slice of angel or sponge cake, add ice cream, cover it with a thick layer of meringue and bake until it lightly browns.
Black Forest Cake
Chocolate, whipped cream and cherries – does anyone have a fork?
Boston Cream Pie
Boston Cream Pie is actually a cake, made with two layers of vanilla sponge cake, a custard filling, and topped with chocolate icing.
Cake Pops
Undecided whether to have chocolate or cake? Have both with chocolate cake pops.
Carrot Cake
Shredded carrots, raisins, and crushed pineapple are the secrets to making this moist and delicious cake, topped with cream cheese frosting.
Cherry Cheese Tarts
Most people love cheesecake. These tarts have the delicious flavor, and they’re finger foods as well. You could purchase ready-made mini piecrusts and make your own filling. They can also be made in a cupcake pan. Line the pan with paper cupcake wrappers. Drop a vanilla wafer in the bottom of each cupcake. Pour in your filling and bake. After they cool, top with cherries or strawberries and enjoy!
Chocolate Mousse
Who could resist the rich, creamy taste of chocolate mousse?
Chocolate Tarts
Most people love chocolate, and this dessert does not disappoint. Chocolate whipped cream is sandwiched between layers of cake and piped on top, garnished with chocolate shavings and raspberries.
Crème Brulee
Creamy egg custard topped with a crunchy, caramelized sugar crust is the perfect combination for this mouthwatering dessert.
Croissants
Butter croissants are finger licking good, but they also come with delicious fillings, such as chocolate, almond, or raspberry.
Fresh Fruit
As the seasons change, fresh fruits appear in abundance, courtesy of Mother Nature.
Ice Cream
Ice cream is an easy dessert to keep on hand for unexpected guests. Whether it is served in dishes, cones, or sundaes, you can’t go wrong with ice cream.
Lemon Bars
Lemon bars are a popular treat for “kids” of all ages.
Lemon Meringue Pie
Sweet and tart are perfectly balanced in lemon meringue pie.
Napoleons
Napoleons consist of alternating layers of light as air puff pastry crust and vanilla cream, topped with powdered sugar icing swirled with chocolate.
Pecan Pie
If you like sweet and salty, this is the dessert for you. The filling is made with eggs, butter, brown sugar, and pecans. For a rich caramel flavor, use dark brown sugar.
Petits Fours
Petits Fours are the perfect marriage of cake and candy. Fondant icing covers bite-size cubes of yellow, sponge or pound cake. While the fondant is still wet, decorations can be applied using piped icing, or a sprinkling of either candy or nuts. As an added burst of flavor, jelly or butter cream can be spread over the cake prior to applying the fondant.
Popsicles
Fruit juice and popsicle molds are all you need to make whip up this cool treat.
Pumpkin Pie with Homemade Crust
Pumpkin pie has a delicious flaky crust. There are some great baking tools, such as fluted piecrust cutters for edging, and spring-loaded piecrust cutters to create cutouts like the leaf shown in the photo above.
Spiced Pumpkin Roll with Orange Cream Cheese Icing
A spiral design is the hallmark of this impressive dessert. Bake the cake in a jellyroll pan lined with parchment paper. After baking, lay the cake face down on a towel. If necessary, trim any ragged edges. Starting with a long side, roll the cake in the towel and cool completely on a wire rack. Unroll and remove the towel and lay cake flat. Spread the filling over the top within 1/2” of the edges. Suggested fillings include whipped cream, pie filling, and pudding. Carefully roll the cake and place it with the seam side down on a platter. Garnish as desired.
Rice Pudding
Rice pudding, fresh from the oven, is one of life’s great comfort foods.
Strawberry Shortcake
Fresh fruit garnishes and a little powdered sugar is all you need to top off this summertime favorite.
Tiramisu
Espresso, rum, cocoa, and creamy mascarpone filling make this dessert out of this world.
Because we live in such a beautiful world, it comes as no surprise that we are inspired to create using every color of the rainbow. Many people have not had the opportunity to explore or develop their artistic abilities. Starting small enables you to build up your confidence while learning new skills. Coloring is a fun and easy introduction to the world of arts and crafts.
Let’s look at the coloring media options, and then we will explore different crafts where you can apply your coloring savvy.
Thin Core Colored Pencils
Thin core, colored pencils have hard lead, which is great for drawing fine details. These are inexpensive and sold in sets. If you are looking for saturated colors, or need to fill large areas with color, use thick core pencils shown below.
Thick Core Colored Pencils
Thick core, colored pencils have soft lead, which is essential for shading and blending. When purchased individually, these pencils can be expensive, but craft stores often have big sales on colored pencil sets, such as Prismacolor, at very affordable prices.
Crayons
Crayons have been kid’s favorites for decades. If you have them on hand, grab your favorite color and plunge into the world of coloring.
Gel Pens
The fine points on gel pens can be used for drawing intricate details or color accents. These pens include some unusual inks, including metallic, neon, iridescent, and glitter.
Markers
Markers produce bold colors across large areas with only a few strokes. You can also layer colored pencil over marker to create interesting effects. Markers may soak through paper, so be sure to place a liner under the page to prevent damage to the surface underneath.
Sketchbook versus Coloring Page
Now you could buy a sketchbook and start doodling. However, the dreaded blank page can be intimidating. Coloring books are a great place to start. As you develop your unique artistic style, you might want to pursue new crafts, which will challenge your newfound skills. Below are side-by-side coloring pages with related crafts.
Coloring & Watercolor Painting
Do you enjoy blending colors to find that perfect shade? Painting may be the perfect choice for you. Watercolors can be transparent, translucent, or opaque, depending upon the amount of water used. You may want to lightly outline your overall design with watercolor pencils prior to painting, but don’t press too hard as the lines might show through the paint. Watercolor paper is strong enough to withstand being wet and dries flat. Acrylic and oil paints are alternate options.
Coloring & Mural Painting
Do you find yourself drawn to bold colors and designs? Is your motto: “Go big or go home?” You might want to try mural painting. If wall space is limited, paint on canvas.
Coloring & Soft Pastels
Soft dreamy palettes are easily achieved using soft pastels as shown above. These pigments come in easy-to-use sticks, allowing you to draw and color at the same time.
Coloring & Mixed Media
Do you tend to choose geometric images with sharp, clean lines? Mixed media is up for the challenge. Technical pens, markers and watercolors were combined to render this beautiful image of Notre Dame Cathedral.
Coloring & Stained Glass
Nature is a common theme for stained glass. The complex patterns, and bold translucent colors are illuminated by sunlight, creating a kaleidoscope of light.
Coloring & Mosaics
If you enjoy intricate designs, mosaics fit together like puzzle pieces, which work together to create a larger image, viewed at a distance.
Coloring & Fantasy Portraiture
Yes, fantasy portraiture is a thing. With the appropriate wardrobe, accessories, hair, makeup, and special effects created with photo editing software, fantasy becomes reality. Make someone’s dream come true.
Coloring & Abstract Art
Abstract art is very popular, and can be created with any medium, including oils, acrylics, watercolors, and photo editing software.
Coloring & Embroidery
Bold solid colors, floral motifs, and three-dimensional details easily translate to needle crafts, such as embroidery or needlepoint.
Coloring is relaxing, reduces stress, and provides instant gratification. Who knows what crafts you might explore next? One thing I have found to be true in all my artistic endeavors: “Draw or paint what you FEEL, not what you know.” Follow this advice and you will never be disappointed.
Special thanks to Trudy, a local crafter, for providing all the coloring pages!
Hermione and Harry never go anywhere without their magic wands.
Logo/Sign at Ollivander’s Wand Store, Universal Studios
Every Hogwarts’ wizard goes to Ollivander’s to choose his or her magic wand.
Magic Wands at Ollivander’s Wand Store
While doing research, I was surprised to see that many of the wands in the Harry Potter series were rather lackluster. I expected wizards to have exquisite, highly personalized wands to express their personalities as well as their power.
Wooden Chopsticks
For this project, we will transform wooden chopsticks into magic wands for Hermione Grainger and Harry Potter. Use these techniques to create a wand for any character and add whatever embellishments feel right to you.
How to Make Hermione’s Magic Wand:
Inspiration
Hermione’s wand has a fairly simple design, consisting of English ivy wrapped around a monotone magic wand.
Supplies
Supplies: Wooden Chopstick (9” long x 3/8” thick) Acrylic Paint: yellow ochre Bottle fabric paint: glow-in-the-dark white Paintbrushes Clear Spray Paint: Matte Finish Optional 1) Faceted rhinestone & Acrylic Paint: metallic peridot. See “Advanced Painting” below.
Painting Chopstick
Step 1 – If the chopsticks are lacquer-coated, you may need to prime the surface first, and then apply two coats of acrylic paint. Puncture a hole in a box to hold the wand upright for drying, but don’t forget to paint the tip later. To prevent fingerprints and scratches, handle with a tissue.
Painting Vines & Leaves
Step 2 – Starting at the top, use three-dimensional paint to create an ivy vine wrapping around the wand. Add an interesting twist by using glow in the dark white paint, but if you prefer, you can use plain white. If you want to be true to Hermione’s original wand design, wait until the 3D paint dries, and then paint the vines with yellow ochre to match the rest of the wand.
Hermione’s Finished Wand
To seal the paints, spray the wand with clear spray paint. At this point, the wand is complete. If you have been following this blog for a while, you know there is usually an enhanced version, which is shown below in the “Advanced Painting” section.
How to Make Harry’s Magic Wand:
Inspiration
Harry’s wand has a textured, two-tone design. Rough “tree bark” at the top serves as a handgrip, and the rest is smooth wood.
Supplies
Supplies: Wooden Chopstick (9” long x 3/8” thick) Acrylic Paint – licorice black, coffee bean brown 1) Bottle fabric paint – brown Paintbrushes Clear Spray Paint: Matte Finish Optional – Glue gun & 1) Faceted rhinestone. See “Advanced Painting” below.
Creating Texture
Step 1 – Using three-dimensional paint, draw long lines at top to create the basic texture as shown above.
Adding More Texture
Step 2 – Fill in with more texture, to create a rough tree bark appearance, including pointed edges across the top of the wand. Allow paint to dry overnight.
Painting Black
Step 3 – Paint the entire wand with black acrylic.
Dry Brushing Brown
Step 4 – Dry brush the rough bark with brown acrylic paint, allowing the black recessed areas to show through, as they do with real bark. Seal the paints with clear spray paint.
Harry & Hermione’s Finished Wands
This photo shows the two completed wands side by side. I wanted to take this project to the next level by creating more texture on Harry’s wand and more visual interest for Hermione’s.
Advanced Painting:
Hermione’s Wand – Defining the Leaves
Step 1 – Make the leaves more prominent by applying a thicker coat of the same three-dimensional glow in the dark paint on each individual leaf.
Close-Up Vines & Rhinestone
Step 2 – Create a glowing cap on the end of the wand and place a rhinestone in the center as shown. In case you didn’t know, fabric paint can be used in place of glue.
Glowing Wand
Step 3 – After being exposed to light, the vines, and leaves glow in the dark. You can test the glow by holding the wand under a bright light for several seconds and then switch off the lamp. Adjust the paint as needed.
Accent Painting the Leaves
Step 4 – Something still needed to be added, but I didn’t know what it was. Finally, I decided to apply a soft pastel green to the leaves, providing color as well as a subtle shimmer. Seal paints with clear spray paint. By day or night, this wand has stylish and surprisingly powerful.
Harry’s Wand – Creating Thicker Tree Bark
Step 1 – Using a glue gun, add long lines for more texture upon the handgrip.
Roughening the Texture
Step 2 – Use brown three-dimensional paint to roughen up the smooth lines of glue, to resemble tree bark more closely.
Painting Black
Step 3 – Paint the entire wand with black acrylic.
Dry Brushing Brown
Step 4 – Dry brush only the rough bark handle with brown acrylic paint, allowing the black recessed areas to show through, as they do with real bark. Use glow in the dark fabric paint to attach a rhinestone to the end of the wand as shown above. Seal paints with clear spray paint.
Harry’s Finished Wand
The thickened “tree bark” looks better, and the sleek black wand is the perfect choice for a powerful wizard.
Harry & Hermione’s Finished Wands
These two wands work well together, just like Harry and Hermione.
Close-Up – Both Finished Wands
I hope you have found a few inspirational ideas to create your own wands. Do you have a favorite wizard, or a favorite magical literary character? What kind of magic wand do you think that character would choose? Please let me know in the comments section. Enjoy the creative process, and let your ideas run wild.
