It’s All in the Details

Detailed Floral Wood Carving
We deal with so many details every day. I thought it would be fun to take a look at some craft photos to demonstrate how small changes can make such a dramatic difference. Let’s go!

Acrylic Painted Rabbit
Painted Bunny Face
This cute rabbit has blended fur colors, but a rather blank expression.

Acrylic Painted Rabbit with 3D Details
Bunny Face 3D Details
The 3D paint creates facial depth, and provides a twinkle in eyes filled with personality.

Acrylic Painted Flamingo
Acrylic Painted Flamingo
Flamingos are so colorful and unusual. The color scheme captures the essence of the bird but lacks the textured feathers.

Acrylic Painted Flamingo Layered with 3D Texture
Acrylic Painted Flamingo Layered with 3D Texture
Now he appears to be staring back at you while he proudly shows off his brightly colored plumage.

Two-Tone Green Man
Green Man Original
Mother Nature’s counterpart doesn’t look very happy, does he?

Two-Tone Green Man with Metallic Gold Highlights
Green Man Gold Accents
After brightening the whites of his eyes, he had his “hair” highlighted and now he looks rather pleased with himself.  lol

Black & White Photo vs. Colorized Photo
Black White Photo vs Colorized
The black and white portrait is nice, but look how soft, warm and romantic the second photo is thanks to the addition of color and dreamy special effects.

Metallic Silver Octopus
Octopus Monotone
Metallic silver is an odd choice for such a fluid sculpture of a living animal.

Full Color Octopus with 3D Details
Octopus Full Color
A vibrant new color scheme brings this blue ringed octopus to life, and the three-dimensional suction cups add texture as well as a more realistic approach to this wriggling octopus.

Gnome House vs. Bamboo Tropical Hut
Gnome House Original vs Tropical Hut
Originally this little house was part of a collection of gnomes. A bamboo pattern combined with a few brightly colored silk flowers transformed it into a tropical hut for an ocean-themed centerpiece.

3D Painted Celtic Cross
Celtic Cross Green & Black
Celtic designs are famous for their knot work. The three-dimensional green paint contrasts nicely with the black background and textures the entire surface.

3D Painted Celtic Cross with Metallic Gold Accents
Celtic Cross Gold Accents
The introduction of three-dimensional gold accents brings a bit of sparkle and opulence to the design.

Acrylic Painted Seahorse with 3D Accents
Acrylic Painted Seahorse with 3D Accents
Seahorses are known for their brilliant colors and textured bodies. The 3D paint adds a bit of texture along the contours of the body and upon the spiny back.

3D Painted Seahorse
3D Painted Seahorse
By using only 3D paints, the entire seahorse springs to life in glorious color and texture.

Fashionable Snowman
Fashionable Snowman
No snowman is complete without a few knitted accessories.

Fashionable Snowman with Lights
Fashionable Snowman with Lights
The addition of lights not only adds sparkle, but also enables him to shine at night in any window to complement your exterior decorations.

Halloween Witch vs. Christmas Elf
Halloween Witch vs. Christmas Elf
How can a Halloween decoration become one of Santa’s helpers? The answer lies in accessories! Cover the hat and tuck in the hair, add a scarf and candy cane and voila you have a Christmas elf.

Instructions for most of these items can be found on the “How To Projects” page.

It is said: “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Little details have a strong influence over our perceptions, but sometimes we become so accustomed to our surroundings that we barely notice. Look at your home from a new perspective. Check out those little details to see if something could use a touch of color, a bit of whimsy and a little tender loving care. You’ll be glad you did!

Thanks for reading & Happy Crafting!

He’s a Real Swinger

Ghost Swing

With a title like that, you’re probably looking for a good time. And that you will have, but probably not in the way you were expecting. Lol Today we’re going to talk about skeletons and swings.

Skeleton & Pumpkin

Halloween is a skeleton’s favorite holiday.

Skeleton Romance

Love at first sight does not require sight. Even after death love lives on.

Skeleton Lounging

They like to lounge around on Sunday afternoons.

Funny Skeletons

Skeletons can be silly and have a playful sense of humor.

Swing

What could be more fun than riding a swing? The idea of skeletons and swings inspired our next project.

How to Make a Skeleton Swing:

Halloween Sidewalk Edging – (lightweight plastic)

Swing Seat

I bought this at the dollar store. It is supposed to be used as spooky edging along your front sidewalk or to serve as a perimeter fence around a Halloween graveyard display. This works great as a seat swing, and I kept the stakes for their menacing appearance.

Large Link Chains – (lightweight plastic)

Swing Chains

This dungeon-like chain also came from the dollar store. A note of caution, these fake chains are only for show and cannot hold any weight. Compensate for this by using heavy twine, as you will see in the following steps below.

Assembled Swing

Assembled Swing

Tie chains to each side of the seat using heavy twine. As mentioned above, you will need to add support, and this depends upon the type of skeleton you choose. To prevent the chains from pulling apart: tie heavy twine to each side of the seat and weave it through the chains to the top and then tie it together so it can be placed over a branch or slid onto a wall-mounted flagpole.

Human Skeleton on Swing

Human Skeleton on Swing

Human skeletons have a loop at the top of the skull, which will support the full weight. He will appear to be riding the swing if you clasp his hands upon the chains, allowing the seat to simply lean against his backside. You may need to adjust the chain length to accommodate his height. For a humorous touch, you could add a baseball cap or a fashionable scarf around the neck.

Dragon Skeleton on Swing

Dragon on Swing

Here’s another skeleton option, and as you know I love dragons, so I returned the human skeleton to the store and chose this dragon instead.

Finished Dragon Swing

Finished Dragon Swing

To protect the dragon’s animatronic eyes, jaws and sound effects, I opted to keep the swing indoors and hung it from an existing plant hook in the ceiling. To reinforce the swing to hold his weight, I attached additional twine to the four corners of the seat. I also tied his feet to the seat to ensure he stays firmly in place. Everybody loves this new addition to our Halloween décor. I think he likes it too!

I hope this project will inspire you to think outside the box with your Halloween decorations. Please let me know your thoughts and ideas in the comments.  

Thanks for Reading! Happy Crafting! And I hope you have a very Happy Halloween!

Skeletons Like Makeovers Too

Eerie & Otherworldly
Spooky Cemetery Skeleton
No Halloween display would be complete without a skeleton or two. Each one has its own personality.

Unexpectedly Playful
Funny Skeletons

Culturally Festive
Day of the Dead

Bone-Chilling & Terrifying
Snake Skeleton
Every year manufacturers introduce new items to thrill, amuse or frighten avid Halloween fans. With a few easy steps, you can personalize store-bought skeletons to express whatever style or attitude you desire for your Halloween décor. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Fierce Makeover:

Deep Sea Fish Skeleton
Original Fish Skeleton
This skeleton is based upon a real life deep-sea fish called an Anglerfish. To attract prey, a bioluminescent fishing lure is cast in front of its head and in no time, those strong jaws snap shut as vicious teeth make short work of consuming the meal. Check out the illuminated photo below.

Illuminated Deep Sea Fish Skeleton
Original Fish Skeleton Lit
As a Halloween decoration, it certainly is more unique than the usual offerings. When lit, the lure is bold yellow and the stomach has an eerie purple glow. While he does have a menacing appearance, I think we can do better! I really like the purple glow but when the lights are turned off, the bones are a neutral color without any contrast. In other words, he needs an upgrade!

Fish Skeleton Paints
Fish Paints
Supplies:
Deep Sea Fish Skeleton (8” high x 17” long x 5” wide)
Acrylic Paints – linen, metallic periwinkle blue, & black (not shown)
Paintbrushes

Fish Tail – Before
Fish Tail Before

Fish Tail – After
Fish Tail After
Paint the tail and tips of the spine with metallic periwinkle blue. Notice how the bones stand out against the metallic blue. The reflective quality of metallic paint contrasts well with matte finish bones.

Fish Head & Fins – Before
Fish Head Before

Fish Head & Fins – After
Fish Head After
Paint the eyes black. Paint the webbing of the fins and crevices around the eyes with periwinkle blue. The fleshy, darker contrast makes the eyes look meaner in a zombie-like fashion. Linen paint can be used to touch up unwanted marks on the head.

Finished Fish
Finished Fish
The individual bones in the tail and fins really show up now, resembling creepy skeletal hands for seizing prey or curious trick-or-treaters. See fish 2025 updated version below.

Illuminated Finished Fish
Finished Fish Lit

Portraits – Before & After
Before & After Portrait
The first photo is the original fish and the second is the finished makeover. The purple glow now extends across the entire body. With a ferocious expression and intimidating attitude, this Anglerfish is ready to strike, perfect for a Halloween scare.

Fish Update 2025

Angler Fish Revisited
Sometimes I like to live with a finished craft for a while to ensure I’m satisfied. I decided this fish needed a meaner look, which required additional painting. I think I accomplished my mission. What do you think?

Fantasy Fashion Makeover:

Spider Skeleton
Original Spider
Spiders often have a very creepy aura and you could certainly go in that direction. This lucky lady prefers a haute couture makeover and we know just how to bring it!

Spider Skeleton Paints
Spider Paints
Supplies:
Spider Skeleton (6” high x 8” long x 13” wide)
Acrylic Paints – metallic blue sapphire, metallic copper, & pure black
Paintbrushes

Spider Head & Feet
Spider Black & Copper Paint
Darken the eyes with black paint, and paint the facial details and feet with metallic copper. Feel free to experiment with the colors.

Spider Joints & Spine
Spider Metallic Blue
Turquoise and brown are a very fashionable color combination, making metallic blue the perfect complement to the copper. This bejeweled spider is ready to make her debut on the fashion runway! lol!

Finished Spider Pulling Wagon
Spider Drawn Carriage
Why not show off her new look by participating in a Halloween parade with a few friends?

Fairy Tale Makeover:

Frog Skeleton – Before
Original Frog Skeleton
This little guy has a heartwarming smile. I believe we can add a little more charm.

Frog Skeleton Paints
Frog Paints
Supplies:
Frog Skeleton (3-1/2” high x 5” long x 4-1/2” wide)
Acrylic Paints – metallic peridot green & pure black
Paintbrushes

Frog Skeleton – After
Finished Frog Skeleton
Sporting his new color, he’s bound to win hearts and maybe even garner a few kisses for luck. Who knows – maybe he will turn into a prince?

I hope you enjoy these fanciful skeletons and apply these ideas to your Halloween décor..

Thanks for Reading! Happy Halloween & Happy Crafting!

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!

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!

Countdown – Top Six Posts 2024

Rocket Launch Countdown

Is it my imagination, or did this year go by in the blink of an eye? Before we go rushing ahead, let’s take a few minutes to look back at the highest ranked posts, as voted by you, the readers. Below is a list of the Top Six posts of 2024, in ascending order: 

Number 6: Spring Break

Resting Deer

Warm weather appears to be arriving and spring break is in full swing. I will be taking a break from blogging for a while to catch up on a few things. To read more, please click here.

Number 5: 2024 – Year of the Dragon

Fire Breathing Dragon

Since I was a kid, I have always loved dragons. It wasn’t until I became an adult that I was introduced to the Chinese zodiac and discovered that I am a dragon! Isn’t it funny I was instinctively drawn to them as a child?  To read more, please click here.

Number 4: The Art of Napkin Folding

Swan Napkins

We have all admired table settings at restaurants and weddings. Napkins play an important practical as well as artistic role in the dining experience. Napkin Folding is a special art form, which anyone can learn.  To read more, please click here.

Number 3: Halloween: Grins Chills or Screams Part 1

Kid Friendly Graveyard

When decorating for Halloween, there are two decisions to be made: 1. Choose a Theme.  2. Choose a Fear Factor. What is the fear factor? Think of it as how much you want to frighten people, based upon a 3-level scale. Level 1 is Kid Friendly.  To read more, please click here.

Number 2: Valentine’s Conundrum

Valentines Candy

Valentine’s Day – There are many ways to celebrate… Which brings us to a very strange event occurring on the same day this year…  To read more, please click here.

Number 1: Happy Easter 2024

Easter Dogs

Easter is quickly approaching and dying eggs are part of the fun.  To read more, please click here. 

Holiday Craft Projects

And there we have it – the top 6 posts of 2024.  We have a new year to explore the world of creativity.  There are always new ideas and I’ll be sure to include more of your favorites.  Your opinions are greatly appreciated, and I look forward to so much more this year.  If you have any suggestions for future posts, please let me know. 

Thanks for Reading, Happy New Year & Happy Crafting! 

The Christmas Mouse

Cat Toy Mouse in Manger

Years ago, when my brother and I were kids, we added an extra animal to our mother’s cherished Nativity scene, which was proudly displayed on the buffet in our dining room. We wondered how long it would take her to notice. Much to our surprise she liked it! In fact, it became a family tradition every year. We’re lucky to have such a cool mom!

Original Mouse

Original Mouse

Now we are adults, and that same adorable critter is in the display, but the years have not been kind to him. His hair is thin and there are some bald spots too. His tail is twisted and torn. This little guy needs some TLC to restore him to the cute furry mouse he used to be.

The Solution – The Hair Club for Mice

Gray Cat

Sometimes a mouse’s best friend is…a cat. Lol

Supplies

Mouse with Supplies

For this project, we will need gray fur, Elmer’s Glue and white felt.

Partially Repaired Tail

Broken Tail in Progress

Cut & glue a piece of felt to underside of the tail. The original tail was so fragile, it broke. I glued it on top of the felt, making it stronger and easier to handle.

Repaired Tail

Close Up - Needs Fur

Apply Gray Fur

New Fur Coat

Apply glue to the top of the tail and push small pieces of gray fur along the entire length. Don’t worry about trimming, which will be done in a later step. Now apply glue to the body and press hair into it to fill the gaps. I also applied hair to the face, which was worn smooth. I allowed it to dry overnight. The next day he looked great, but in desperate need of a haircut.

Trim Fur & Tail

Mouse After Hair Cut

Carefully trim the hair as needed. New eyes were created using black 3D fabric paint.

Restored Mouse

Restored Mouse

Ta-da! Here is our new and improved mouse. Before the makeover, he looked like a well-worn toy, but now he looks very realistic. Should we try to scare our mom with it? No, she’s always three steps ahead of us. Lol

Our cats have their toy back (shown in first photo) and once again our Christmas mouse proudly sits in the Nativity scene. You never know where new traditions may come from or what you might do to keep it going for generations to come.

Togetherness

Cat & Mouse

Thanks for Reading, & Happy New Year!

Holiday Wrap Up

Dreaming of Christmas
It’s the night before Christmas, and little feet tiptoe toward the tree for a sneak peek at the presents. We may not admit doing this but it’s human nature to wonder what’s inside the box. Whether you are celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, you’re going to give gifts to lots of people, and those gifts need to be boxed, bagged or wrapped in an attractive fashion. Here are a few ideas:

Colorful Gift Boxes
Colorful Boxes
If the thought of wrapping gifts is unappealing, you could buy readymade gift boxes such as these. All you need is some ribbon and bows and no wrapping is required.

Vintage Wrapping Paper
Vintage Paper & Red Twine
Revive memories of Christmases past with vintage designs and twine.

Contemporary Sparkling Gift Wrap
Sparkling Paper
Modern technology has enabled the creation of new textures, colors and special effects never before possible.

Nature’s Wrapping
Nature Wrap
For an all-natural look, utilize recycled paper with twine instead of ribbon and pinecones, evergreen or other elements from your own backyard.

Foil Wrapping
Foil Wrap
This easy-to-use method only requires the gathering of foil paper and a simply tied bow.

Coordinated Paper & Ribbon
Fabric Ribbon Coordinate Paper
Even though the prints vary, red and white colors unify this attractive gift wrap.

Self-Stick Bows
Self Stick Bows
The invention of the self-stick bow is a wonderful time saver.

Fireworks Bow
Fireworks Bow
What do you get when you combine a metallic pompom and a large white bow – an amazing starburst bow, which makes the perfect topper for an elegant package. (And it’s a self-stick bow too!)

Crinkle Ribbon
Sprinkled Snow Curled Ribbon
Instead of a bow, tie long strands of crinkle ribbon around a package and curl it with a pair of scissors.

Triple Bow & Custom Paper
Triple Bow & Finger Painting
Making your own bows is a sure way to make your gifts stand out. For an added more personal touch, plain white wrapping paper can be colorfully finger-painted, creating wrapping for gifts year round.

Floral Fabric Bow
Floral Bow
Sometimes a really great topper steals the show. A floral bow, such as this, will be treasured and it’s reusable. Check out the many bow-making videos online for how to instructions.

Floral Picks
Floral Picks
From a distance, this photo resembles a water lily garden, but it’s actually green bows adorned with artificial red berries.

Ornaments

Dress up dollar store ornaments with ribbons or bells and tie onto your gifts and hand-delivered cards.

Handmade Ornaments/Gift Tags
Holly Tag & Ornament
Is it an ornament or a gift tag? It’s both! Write the name & year on the back and attach it to your present. After the gift is opened, it’s ready to hang on the tree.

Gift Bags – Paper
Gift Bag Paper
Gift bags are probably one of the best inventions of all time. They’re sold just about everywhere, including the food stores, so when you’re running around at the last minute a gift bag is easily on hand.

Gift Bags – Fabric
Gift Bags Fabric Amazon
Amazon provided these sparkly gift bags, which are reusable and perfect for any occasion.

Gift Pouch
Christmas Pouch
Gift pouches are ready to use and include the ribbon and gift tag.

Christmas Stocking
Christmas Stocking
If you have several small size items, a Christmas stocking is a fun alternative to traditional gift wrap.

Gift Baskets
Gift Basket
A gift basket filled with the recipient’s favorites is always a welcome surprise.

Collectible Porcelain Box
Porcelain Box
Porcelain boxes come in a variety of designs for jewelry, small items, or cash gifts.

Seasonal Metal Tin
Seasonal Metal Tin
Most people associate tins with cookies or other baked goods, but this large tin could easily hold a pair of pajamas or sweater. The design is adorable and all you need to do is simply close the lid and the gift is ready to give, without the need for paper, bows, tape or scissors! How easy is that?

Glass Mason Jars
Glass Jars
Jellies, candy, sauces and anything else you cook up stores well in re-sealable glass jars, which require nothing more than a simple bow or ornament, and can be reused indefinitely.

Handmade Soap & Soap Dish
Hand Made Soap Dish
Many people like to make their own Christmas gifts. Take your creativity to the next level by designing a unique gift presentation, such as this handmade soap and accompanying twig soap dish.

It’s a Family Affair
Festive Dogs
If you can’t get help with all that wrapping, at least you’ll have the companionship and encouragement from your family pets.

Treat Yourself
Treat Yourself
As they say, “it’s the thought that counts,” but “presentation is everything.” With a few creative choices, wrapping gifts can be a pleasure, and be sure to treat yourself while you’re at it! Thanks for reading!

Happy Holidays & Happy Crafting!

Thanksgiving Table

Holiday Table

Thanksgiving is celebrated by everyone across the United States. It is a time of family gatherings and delicious food. Planning is the key to preparing a feast for a crowd, which can be a daunting task. There are so many decisions to be made, starting with the dining table.

Traditional Dining Room Table

Traditional Dining Table

Is there enough room for your guests and the food? Should you serve a sit-down dinner or buffet style? How can you create a festive atmosphere?

Contemporary Dining Room Table

Contemporary Dining Table

Just as artists are faced with a blank canvas, what can you do with an empty table? Let’s look at a few options…

Tablecloths & Placemats:
Tablecloths

Table Cloth

Placemats

Placemats

Centerpieces:
Table Runners, Candles & Flowers

Table Runner Centerpiece

Cornucopia with Seasonal Produce

Cornucopia Centerpiece

Seasonal Accents at Varying Heights

Seasonal Centerpiece

Ceramic Pumpkins & Leaves

Ceramic Centerpiece

Place Settings & Glassware:
Formal Place Setting – Neutrals

Formal Place Setting

Formal Place Setting – Bold Jewel Tones

Formal Place Setting

Casual Tropical Place Setting

Casual Place Setting

Buffet-Style Place Setting

Buffet Place Setting

Glassware

Glassware

Food Presentation:
Charcuterie Boards

Food Serving Charcuterie Boards

Spreading Knives

Food Serve Spread Knives

Bold Contrasting Colors & Materials

Food Serving Contrasts

Decorative Platters & Artfully Arranged Food

Food Serving Eye Appeal

Thanksgiving Themed Desserts

Food Serving Artistic

Homemade Cakes & Candy (Edible Décor)

Food Serving Artistic

Lighting:
Firelight & Candlelight

Candlelight Dinner

Fairy Lights

Fairy Lights

Specialty Lights & Floral Garland

Specialty Lights Garland

Thanksgiving Day:
Dinner is Served

Dinner is Served

Celebrating with Family & Friends

Family Dinner

I hope these suggestions will inspire you to come up with creative Thanksgiving décor in your own unique style. Wow your guests on this memorable occasion. If you have any family traditions you would like to share, please do so in the comments.

Thanks for Reading, Happy Thanksgiving & Happy Crafting!

Feathered Bird Mask

Black & White Feather Mask

A mask is the perfect accessory to complement any Halloween costume. Feathers have gorgeous colors and patterns and are easy to work with, making them a great choice for mask making projects.

Humorous Bird Mask

Humorous Bird Mask

Masks not only coordinate with costumes, but can also express personality, subtle sophistication, and even humorous characteristics.

Unintentionally Humorous Bird

Oops Bird Mask

The colors and patterns in this mask are bold and confident, but there’s a problem…birds don’t have feathers on their beaks. To correct it, remove the beak feathers and simply paint it flat black, which will return the focus to the beautifully accented eyes.

How to Make a Feathered Bird Mask:

Assorted Supplies

Supplies

Crafts stores sell several mask styles, such as half masks, full face masks, and some with sculpted scroll or fleur-de-lis details. Decorations include feathers, rhinestones, sequins, faux diamonds, and fancy beaded or woven trims.

Paint Mask Black

Paint Mask Black

This half mask is made of plastic. Because spray paint can produce strong odors, I chose to hand paint it with acrylic paint to make this more comfortable to wear. Depending upon the mask material, it may require two coats of black paint.

Add Faux Faceted Diamonds

Faux Diamonds

Glue individual diamonds, flat side down, around the eye openings, ensuring the gems will not impede vision.

Begin Layering Black Feathers

Black Feathers

I started under the center point of the eye openings and worked my way around to the top, following the contours of the mask.

Create a Feathered Crown

Layer Black Feathers

Layer additional black feathers creating a beautiful crown, which extends above the top edge of the mask.

Layer Turquoise Feathers

Turquoise Feathers

Turquoise & brown tipped feathers are added, starting at the edge of the nose and continuing around the eye as shown. Repeat for the other side.

Completed Mask

Completed Mask Front

Add turquoise accent feathers on the top to contrast with the black. You may need to touch up the black paint due to scratches or nicks from handling. This completes the mask and it is ready to wear.

Completed Mask – Left Side View

Completed Mask Left Side

Because each feather is unique, there will be variations, but this will not detract from the design. I chose to create a balanced design, but masks can also be asymmetrical.

Completed Mask – Right Side View

Completed Mask Right Side

Completed Mask – Top View

Completed Mask Top

Raven/Parrot Costume

Raven Wings Costume

I made this mask for my mom to wear to a Halloween costume party. I had already purchased this cape, which resembles bird wings, from Grandinroad. She wanted an easy-to-wear costume. All she had to do was wear a black top and slacks, pull on the cape and complete the look with the feathered mask.

I hope you enjoyed this project. It’s easy and fun. Have you ever made a mask? Please let me know in the comments.

Thanks for Reading. Happy Halloween & Happy Crafting!