Bewitching Mushrooms

Mushroom Centerpiece

Mushrooms have been trending this year in everything from apparel to home décor. Nature is filled with magical wonders and what better time to tap into that magic than Halloween? This fun project is fun and easy for everyone.

Original Mushroom Decoration

Original Mushroom

I purchased this cute figurine at Wegmans. The shape of the mushroom cap lends itself perfectly to becoming a witch’s hat.

Supplies

Supplies

For this project you will need acrylic paints, brushes, a black sharpie marker, and a toothpick for tiny touch-ups. You will also need a stuffed animal eye. (You’ll see why below.)

Paint Jack-O-Lantern Faces

Painted Jack-O Lanterns

Painted faces give these pumpkins personality. I didn’t like the low placement of the faces, so I repainted them to start over.

Repaint Pumpkins

Repainted Pumpkins

The new orange paint creates a new blank canvas.

Paint Yellow Jack-O-Lantern Face Details

Painted Yellow Face Details

Yellow paint creates the inner glow typically found in Jack-O-Lanterns.

Outline Face Details in Black

Black Outlines

Using a black Sharpie marker, outline the face details for a carved appearance.

Add a Purple Eye

Add an Eye

The addition of a purple eye is both cute and creepy.

Create Eye Socket with Packing Peanut

Create Eye Socket

Instead of a human eyeball, I decided to give this magical creature a tube-shaped eye socket using flattened packing peanuts.

Side View of Eye Socket

Side Detail

The packing peanut texture coordinates well with the mushroom stem.

Side View of Eye Socket

Side Detail

Finished Bewitching Mushroom

Finished Mushroom

The eye socket was painted beige to blend with the stem.

Side View of Finished Mushroom

Side Details

Side View of Finished Mushroom

Side Details

I hope you enjoyed seeing this bewitching mushroom. It makes a great addition to your Halloween décor and creates an element of the unexpected. As you know, I love Halloween and would love to hear about any of your Halloween-themed projects.

Thanks for Reading! Happy Halloween & Happy Crafting!

Hand Painted Potholder & Oven Mitt

I have always loved ancient Egyptian art and architecture. The symbolism, the colors, and the powerful portrayals of the gods and goddesses is fascinating. Bast (aka Bastet) is the ancient Egyptian cat goddess.

Egyptian Wall Art

Egyptian Wall Art

Ancient Egyptian symbols often include the lotus flower, and this color palette is used throughout their artwork.

The Goddess Squeak

I can’t explain why but my brother’s cat, Squeak, has a royal vibe. As queen of the household, she struts around the house looking for attention and spends a lot of time resting on the kitchen counter on top of dish towels or oven mitts.

3-Dimensional Fabric Paints

My love of ancient Egyptian art combined with this pampered cat to inspire a new craft: painted oven mitts & potholders. Special Note: because fabric paint is heat sensitive, avoid direct contact with hot pots and pans. This project is more decorative, serving as art for the kitchen.

Original Potholder

This plain potholder could use some love.

Painted Lotus Potholder

This eye-catching lotus flower is just what it needed.

Original Oven Mitt

Gray is a very popular color, but we can do better.

Painted Cat Goddess Oven Mitt

Here we see the goddess, Bast, posing in front of the Giza pyramids.

Close-Up of Painted Cat Goddess

The gold collar is perfect for a goddess, including the Ankh and Eye of Horus symbols. I painted the cat’s eyes metallic gold to catch the light and create a glow amid the dark black fur.

My brother and his cat love these. They also make a great place for a quick nap – for the cat, not my brother. Lol

I hope you will be inspired to add some decorative details to your homes. Anything can serve as your canvas. What will you create next?

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Forest Dragon

Baby Dragon

The mysterious legends of dragons have been a fascination for centuries. appearing in ancient and modern texts, maps, as well as artwork and architecture around the world. Some may say dragons are pure fantasy, but shown below are several dragons alive today. This week’s project, a colored/painted LED dragon, is easy to complete and suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Inspirations:
Komodo Dragon

Komodo Dragon

Australian Seadragon

Australian Seadragon

Green Iguana

Iguana

Supplies:
Raw Wood LED Dragon

Raw Wood Dragon

Magic Markers

Magic Markers

Acrylic Paints

Acrylic Paints

3-Dimensional Fabric Paints

Fabric Paints

How to Color/Paint a Wooden Dragon:
Apply Dark Blue Marker

Dark Blue Marker

Color the wing details and spines running down the dragon’s back and tail.

Apply Aqua Marker

Aqua Marker

Fill in the wings with magic marker. Don’t be afraid to experiment. You can always change it, as you will see in a later step.

Apply Lime Green Marker

Lime Green Marker

Apply Dark Green Accents

Dark Green Marker Accent

I didn’t like lime green and dark green together and changed it in the next step.

Apply Dark Green Marker

Dark Green Marker Body

Apply Dark Blue Marker

Lt Blue Marker Wings

Cover the original aqua wing with dark blue. I liked the color, but it appeared to be rather dull for such a magical beast. At this point, if you are satisfied with your dragon, you could stop. I like to experiment with different paints, as you will see below.

Paint Wing Metallic Light Blue

Metallic Blue Painted Wings

Paint Face and Body Details Metallic Green

Metallic Green Painted Accents

Paint Spines Metallic Purple

Metallic Purple Spines

Paint the spines metallic purple. Add facial details with green 3D paint. Paint the eye metallic blue and outline it in 3D green paint.

Add Textured Scales with 3D Paint

Dk Green 3D Scales

To make tiny scales, dip toothpicks in 3D green paint and lightly touch the wood surface creating a textured pattern.

Add Wing Veins with 3D Paint

Dk Green 3D Wing Details

Finished Dragon

Finished Dragon

Paint the wing veins blue and outline the spines with 3D purple paint.

Finished Dragon Close Up

Dragon Close Up

Dragon LED Lights Lit

Lit Dragon

Dragon Nightlight

Dragon LED Nightlight

This completes our dragon. It’s fun, colorful and functions as a night light too. I hope you enjoy it and feel inspired to explore the many creative options for your next project.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

The Art of Cupcake Decorating II

Assorted Cupcakes

In part 1, we reviewed cupcake flavors and decoration options. Now we have arrived at the fun part, decorating. Each cupcake is a blank canvas, ready for your creativity to come to life. Let your inner artist come out to play.

Decorated Cupcakes:
Flock of Sheep

Sheep Cupcakes

Floral

Floral Cupcakes

Floral

Floral Cupcakes

Cookie Monster & Friend

Monster Cupcakes

Sealife

Sealife Cupcakes

Unicorns

Unicorn Cupcakes

Valentine’s Day

Valentine Cupcakes

Halloween

Halloween Cupcakes

Christmas

Christmas Cupcakes

Snowman

Snowman Cupcake

Cupcake Design & Presentation:
Cupcake Art

Artful Cupcakes

Two things to remember: 1) We eat with our eyes first and 2) Presentation is everything. In the photo above, the layout may look random, but it’s by design. Touches of red and blue draw your eye across the composition. Dark chocolates contrast with colorful tart berries floating upon waves of buttercream icing. Subtle variations in the pastel blue wrappers serve as a perfect backdrop. Let’s see what’s creatively possible…

Mini Cupcake Pops

Cupcake Pops

Flowerpot Cupcakes

Flower Pot Cupcakes

Square Cupcakes in Geometric Pattern

Square Cupcakes

Chocolate Strawberry Cupcake ala Mode

Chocolate Strawberry ala Mode

Easter Cupcakes on a Tiered Tower

Easter Tiered Cupcake Tower

Christmas Cupcakes in Wire Stand

Christmas Cupcakes Wire Stand

Spring Cupcakes in Tiered Tray

Spring Cupcakes Tiered Tray

Floral Cupcakes Centerpiece

Floral Cupcake Centerpiece

Quilling Paper Cupcakes – no calories, no allergens, and completely guiltfree (lol)

Paper Cupcakes

I don’t know about you but I’m seriously craving cupcakes! Unfortunately, it’s too late for baking, but there’s always tomorrow. I hope you are inspired by these ideas. Please let me know your favorites in the comments. Enjoy your cupcakes and eat one for me. (lol)

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

The Art of Cupcake Decorating

Raspberry Cupcakes

Cupcakes are the perfect choice to satisfy your sweet tooth. They are quick to make, fun to decorate, easily portable, and the quantity allows experimentation with multiple designs. We will begin with flavors, followed by decorating options. Let’s begin and let your creativity soar.

Cupcake Flavors: (can be included in cakes, toppings and fillings)
Blueberries & Cream

Blueberry & Cream Cupcake

Carrot Cake

Carrot Cake Cupcake

Chocolate Cheese

Chocolate Cheese Cupcake

Chocolate Chip

Chocolate Chip Cupcake

Salted Caramel

Salted Caramel Cupcake

Vanilla & Chocolate Swirl

Vanilla & Chocolate Cupcake

Chocolate Raspberry with Buttercream Icing

Chocolate Raspberry Cupcake

Butterscotch & Chocolate

Butterscotch & Chocolate Cupcake

Chocolate Chili

Chocolate Chili Cupcake

Red Velvet

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Cupcake

Lime Mandarin Orange

Lime Mandarin Orange Cupcakes

Cupcake Decorating Options:
Piped Icing & Candy

Piped Icing & Candy

Ombre Icing & Sprinkles

Ombre Iced & Sprinkles

Chocolate Dipped & Cookies

Chocolate Dipped & Cookies

Fruit & Edible Flowers

Fruit & Edible Flowers

Fondant

Fondant

Sugar Paste Flowers

Sugar Rose

Modeling Chocolate

Modeling Chocolate

There are infinite combinations of cupcake flavors and decorating ideas. I hope you give decorating a try. In part two, we will see delicious cupcake designs.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Celebrating Spring with Wreaths

Cat Wearing Floral Crown

Nothing says spring has arrived like colorful buds, blooms and leaves. Why not bring nature indoors by making a new wreath. You will have a few decisions to make before you begin…

Colors: Bold & Bright

Bold Colors Wreath

Will you choose bold contrasting colors, soft pastels, or a combination of both?

Fresh-Cut Flowers

Fresh Cut Flowers

Fresh-cut or silk flowers are popular choices. Do you want to simply wire the flowers together or do you prefer using a base wreath and hot glue?

Pussy Willows, Wild Grass & Twigs

Pussy Willows, Grass & Twigs

Would you like an alternative to flowers? Pussy willows, fruits & berries, and vines make great additions to any wreath.

Floral Garland

Floral Garland

Think you don’t have the skills to make a wreath? Coil a silk garland and secure the ends. It’s that easy!

Exotic Flowers & Seashells

Exotic Flower & Shells

Wonder how to create a showstopping wreath? Include the unexpected, such as orchids, starfish, or ribbons & beaded trims. You could choose inspirational themes like holidays or special occasions.

Reusable Tabletop Wreath Centerpiece

Birds Nest Centerpiece

How do you plan to use your new wreath? You can use it as a centerpiece, hang it on a wall or door, or wear it as a floral crown. The wintry centerpiece above can be transformed for spring by swapping a few key elements: Replace the birds with robins sitting upon a layer of spring greens and switch the candles to pale yellow.

Finished Wreaths:

Pink & Blue Floral Wreath

Flowers & Blueberries

Multi-Color Hydrangea Wreath

Hydrangea Wreath

Berries, Leaves & Flowers Wreath

Flowers & Berries Wreath

Freeform Wreath Centerpiece

Wreath Centerpiece

Easter Egg Mobile Wreath

Easter Egg Wreath Mobile

Thai Garland

Thai Garland

Candle Ring

Candle Ring

Heart Shaped Wreath with Fresh Cut Flowers

Heart Wreath

Multi-Color Peonies Wreath

Peonies Wreath

Tropical Floral Crown

Tropical Floral Crown

Tropical Fruit & Flowers Wreath

Tropical Wreath

Wreaths are fun and easy to make. There are endless possibilities and they make great gifts! Please let me know your favorites in the comments.

Thanks for Reading, Welcome Spring & Happy Crafting! 

The Symbolism of Rings

Assorted Rings
We wear jewelry for many reasons, but rings in particular have played a significant role in our lives.  The circular shape, with no beginning and no end, symbolizes eternity.  Rings can have special meanings for individuals, families, communities, and cultures.

Self-Expression:
Triangle Ring
The most obvious reasons to wear rings are self-expression and personal adornment.

Attention Getting Rings
We express our individuality by creating the image we show to the world, including hairstyle, clothing choices, and yes, even jewelry.

Sculptural Wrap Ring
A signature ring is an item worn on a daily basis.

Venetian Glass Bead Rings
Although it may have a significant meaning, the way it makes you feel when you wear it is the most important hallmark of such an adored piece of jewelry.

3D Sculptural Ring
Jewelry is art for the body.

Commitment:
Engagement Ring
Engagement rings represent promises and intentions.

Wedding Rings
Wedding bands are signs of love and fidelity.

Eternity Bands
Anniversary rings, also known as eternity bands, commemorate love through the years.

Family Heritage:
Coat of Arms Ring
A coat of arms honors family history.  Rings like this become family heirlooms passed down from one generation to the next.

Garnet Ring
Birthstone rings celebrate your birth month or zodiac sign.
For more information on gemstone meanings and uses throughout history, please read: “Gemstone Healing Traditions.”

Accomplishments:
High School Ring
Accomplishments are often celebrated with jewelry.  Upon graduation, alumni often wear a ring to demonstrate school pride and personal achievement.  Champions in athletics are awarded expensive rings such as the winners of the Super Bowl.

Affirmations:
Love Ring
Affirmation rings serve as reminders to fulfill our goals and dreams.

Feather Rings
Feathers symbolize our connection to angels, the spirit world, and our higher selves.

Cultural Pride:
Claddagh Rings
Different cultures wear jewelry for traditional reasons and to express pride in their heritage.  The Irish Claddagh signifies love, loyalty and friendship.

Morrocan Ring
This mosaic ring set in silver is a fine example of intricate Moroccan design and craftsmanship.

Ancient Viking Rings
Ancient Viking rings symbolize clan loyalty, while the open design provides flexibility.

Membership:
Club Rings
Social clubs wear rings in honor of teamwork, shared goals and simply for the fun of it.

Signet Ring
Professional organizations wear insignia rings as a sign of group values and camaraderie.

Power:
Royal Ring & Seal
Rings can be a sign of authority, such as those worn by royalty and religious leaders.  Historically, kings often sealed documents with hot wax and the impression of a specific ring to authenticate the contents.  Envoys sometimes carried a royal ring as proof of their authority to speak on behalf of the monarchy.

Lord of the Rings
Who could forget the One ring?  Although it is a fictional story, “The Lord of the Rings” is a haunting tale, demonstrating what some are willing to do, good or bad, to gain power or to protect and save their world.

As we move toward the future, new jewelry designs will debut and the classics will appeal to new audiences, while their underlying meanings pique our curiosity.  What do your rings mean to you?

Thanks for Reading and Happy Crafting!

Non-Traditional Valentine’s Day Gifts

Colorful Hearts

Flowers and a heart-shaped box of candy are the traditional gifts for Valentine’s Day. While there’s nothing wrong with that, let’s see if we can find more creative ways to express love.

Floral-Themed Gifts:
Rose Cake Pops

Flowers Cake Pops

Cake pops are often dipped in chocolate and covered with sprinkles. In the photo above, the rich chocolate cake center was wrapped in modeling chocolate, creating edible roses.

Glass Flowers

Glass Flowers

Each delicate petal in this stunning centerpiece was skillfully handcrafted with glass.

Floral Digital Art

Floral Digital Art

Digital flowers provide infinite possibilities. A frame is the perfect finishing touch.

Fresh-Cut Rose Lilies Centerpiece

Flowers Rose Lilies

Are you familiar with rose lilies? These colorful, fragrant blooms have that wow-factor and are much less expensive than roses.

LED Floral Garden Lights

Flowers LED Garden Lights

No green thumb is required for these pretty blooms. When the sun goes down, imagine the surprise of seeing a magical glowing flower garden.

Floral Painted Glass

Flowers Painted Glass

One of the challenges of stained glass is working with sharp wire and glass, causing cuts in your hands. With painted glass, the problem is solved. You can have the look of genuine stained glass and none of the pain. Yeah!

Silk Chrysanthemums Centerpiece

Flowers Silk Centerpiece

Silk flowers have come a long way. These fool-the-eye chrysanthemums will look divine long after the typical roses have faded away.

Heart-Themed Gifts:
Hand Blown Glass Heart

Heart Blown Glass Art

Glass blowing is an age-old art, and each is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Nature’s Valentines Photography

Heart Nature's Valentines

Heart shapes appear everywhere in nature, including seashells, rocks, and animals too.

Twig Heart Wall Art

Heart Twigs

Whether you prefer hiking through a forest or walking on the beach, the treasures you collect along the way can be incorporated into unique and meaningful gifts.

Glass Mosaic Heart

Hearts Mosaic Glass

Mosaic art can be created with glass, ceramic tiles, stones, seashells, etc. These intricate designs adorn walls, furniture, jewelry, or anything else you imagine.

Wood & Glass Heart Box

Hearts Wood & Glass Box

Painted, stained or decorated wood crafts make great gifts.

Papercraft 3D Wall Art

Hearts Paper Craft Wall Art

Wall art, scrapbooking, and origami fall under the papercraft category. There was a time when paper was limited to matte or gloss finish. Today, there are metallic, iridescent, painted, and decorative papers to bring your design to life.

Writing:
Musical Composition

Writing Music

Compose an original song.

Calligraphy

Writing Calligraphy

Heart-felt words of love are sure to be appreciated.

Write Poetry

Writing Poetry

Whether you write a single poem or a book, sharing your creative writing makes a thoughtful, memorable gift.

Miscellaneous Gifts:
Paper Sculpture

Paper Sculpture

If paper could make a wish, I suppose becoming a sculpture would be the ultimate dream come true. If you prefer digital art, a similar sculptural effect can be achieved using AI software.

Take a Class

Take a Class Chocolate Dessert

Instead of flowers or candy, you and your loved one could take a class in flower arranging or candy making. As an alternative to expensive restaurants, learn how to cook a delicious dinner and mouthwatering dessert. Spending time together is a gift too.

Thanks for Reading, Happy Valentine’s Day, & Happy Crafting!

Year of the Snake 2025

Chinese New Year Snake

Today, we are celebrating the Year of the Snake. At the start, I must admit that I struggled with this topic. Many people instinctively fear snakes. All creatures have something to teach us, and my challenge is to find lessons and photos that will appeal to my readers. I hope I have succeeded. Please continue reading as we explore how snakes can motivate and inspire us…

Enjoy Nature

Snake in the Grass

Daily exercise is important. Sunshine and fresh air can do wonders for the mind and body.

Get a New Perspective

Snake in a Tree

If you’re feeling low, climb higher and gain a new perspective.

Speak Your Mind

Speak Up Snake

Try not to keep everything bottled up inside. Speak up and let your stress melt away.

BFFs or Soulmates?

Soulmates or BFFs

Everybody needs somebody sometime. Whether it’s a new best friend or your soulmate, sharing and caring bring joy and happiness to you both.

Be Silly

Be Silly

There’s nothing more rewarding than making someone laugh.

Be Bold

Be Bold Snake

There’s no need to hide in the shadows. Be yourself. Self-expression is a beautiful thing.

Just Dance

Dancing Cobra

Listen to music, let it move you, and dance like nobody’s watching.

Get Plenty of Rest

Resting Snake

Life can be a rat race. Take time to rest and rejuvenate to stay healthy and strong.

Self-Reflection

Self Image Snake

Look in the mirror and ask yourself: Am I the person I always wanted to be? Like a snake sheds its skin, you can make changes in your life, out with the old, in with the new. Move forward, making your dreams come true.

Camouflage

Camo Snake

Some days you just want to blend into your surroundings. Keeping a low profile reveals opportunities as you watch and learn.

Strut Your Stuff

Fantasy Golden Cobra

Confidence is sexy. Hold your head up high, stand out from the crowd and let your brilliant light shine. Become an inspiration. You are legend.

May the Year of the Snake be your best one yet! 

Happy Chinese New Year & Happy Crafting!

Crafts for Every Holiday

New Year's Kitten

I couldn’t resist this photo of a kitten swatting a clock just before midnight on New Year’s Eve. Time flies so quickly. I don’t think this little guy could catch it, but that won’t stop him from trying. There are so many creative opportunities throughout the year. Let’s look at some of the possibilities for each of the major holidays:

New Year’s Eve/Day – Specialty Drinks

New Year's Drinks

New Year’s Eve/Day – Homemade Zodiac Chocolates

New Year's Zodiac Candies

Chinese New Year – Lanterns & Decor

Chinese New Year Decorations

Valentine’s Day – Homemade Candy & Cookies

Valentine's Cookies & Candy

Valentine’s Day – Flower Arranging

Valentine's Wreath

St. Patrick’s Day – Flower Arranging, Jewelry, & Sewing

St Patrick's Day Apparel

St. Patrick’s Day – Cookies

St Patrick's Day Cookies

Easter – Dyed Eggs & Wood Crafts

Easter Eggs & Wood Crafts

Easter – Cookies & Ceramics

Easter Cookies & Ceramic Basket

Cinco de Mayo – Hat Design, Beading & Embroidery

Cinco de Mayo Hat

Cinco de Mayo – Costume Design, Sewing, Embroidery & Beading

Cinco de Mayo Couple

Mother’s Day – Flower Arranging & Jewelry

Mother's Day Flowers & Jewelry

Mother’s Day – Painting

Mother's Day Painting

Mother’s Day – Portraiture

Mother's Day Portrait

Father’s Day – Wood Sculpture

Father's Day Wood Sculpture

Father’s Day – Craft Beer

Father's Day Craft Beer

Father’s Day – Illustration & Digital Art

Father's Day Illustration

Independence Day – Cake Design

July 4th Cake Design

Independence Day – Homemade Popsicles

July 4th Popsicles

Halloween – Cosplay Costume Design, Makeup, & Props

Halloween Cosplay

Halloween – Cookies, Candy, & Baked Treats

Halloween Desserts

Halloween – Nail Art

Halloween Nail Art

Thanksgiving – Centerpieces, Candle Making, & Specialty Lighting

Thanksgiving Centerpiece

Thanksgiving – Ceramics

Thanksgiving Ceramics

Hanukkah – Candle Making

Hanukkah Candles

Hanukkah – Jelly Donuts

Hanukkah Jelly Donuts

Christmas – Cupcakes

Christmas Cupcakes

Christmas – Hand-Painted Nutcrackers

Christmas Nutcrackers

Christmas – Hand-Painted Ornaments

Hand Painted Christmas Ornament

Kwanzaa – Candle Making, Candleholders, & Centerpieces

Kwanzaa Candles

Whether you make these holiday-themed crafts for yourself or give them as gifts, they are all wonderful ways to express your creativity. Don’t be afraid to try something new. You may discover talents you never knew you had.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!