Crowning Glory – Create Beautiful Floral Crowns

Party Animal
Raise your hand if you wore a crown as a kid on your birthday. Come on, you know you did! It was fun being a prince or princess for the day. From the moment I awoke on that special day until I climbed into bed that night, the crown was on my head. I know it was only plastic or cardboard with glitter, but to me it was precious metal and gemstones. Ah to be a kid again!

You’ll be happy to hear that crowns are making a comeback – for adults. Instead of visiting a party store, you can make your own headbands and crowns with fresh-cut flowers and silk foliage. For a unique approach, accessorize with beads and shells.

Red Roses
Bold red roses and a frilly red dress are sure to be noticed at any occasion. To make one, you’ll need floral wire and tape, wire cutters, and enough fresh-cut blooms to conceal the wire. Make sure the roses have long enough stems to attach to the wire. You can trim them later when the crown is complete. And while it’s probably obvious when working with roses, don’t forget to remove all the thorns.

Casual Crown
By simply gluing silk leaves and flowers to braided twine, you can create a laid back, casual look, perfect for a summer barbecue with friends.

Ivy & Berries Crown
English ivy and red berries lend a wintry vibe to this crown. If time is limited, choose silk garlands, which can be cut to size and secured with green florist’s tape. Be sure to hide the ends with leaves or flowers.

Rosebud Crown
Lavender rosebuds beautifully coordinate with this model’s makeup.

Green Leaves
Wearing matching green leafy crowns is an adorable way for a bride and groom to start their new life together.

Shells & Nuts
A readymade strand of woven seashells and nuts is a nice alternative to flowers in this attractive crown.

Blue Flowers
Lush blooms in vibrant blue celebrate the joys of springtime.

Hyacinths Crown
Hyacinths and daffodils are a great combination with a heavenly scent.

Wild Flowers Crown
Nothing says summertime like wildflowers in the sun.

Dried Flowers Crown
This headpiece can be worn again and again thanks to the use of dried flowers.

Daisies & Cornflowers Crown
If you are on a gluten free diet, this is not the crown for you. Yellow, blue and red flowers form a delicate balance with the wispy texture of wheat in this sweet bountiful style.

Seashell Crown
A seashell necklace can become the perfect accessory for accentuating this pretty pinned up hairdo. Simply double the strand and drape it over the top. What could be easier than that?

Hibiscus Crown
Contrasting hibiscus flowers, in red and white, beautifully frame this young woman’s face. You could easily create the same look by attaching silk tropical flowers to a purchased headband.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a special anniversary, getting married, or having a fabulous time on a tropical vacation, why not don a crown? They’re not just for royalty. Think of all the things you do for friends, family, co-workers, and acquaintances each and every day, all year long. Wear the crown. You’ve earned it!

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

The Ultimate Hair Accessory – Flowers

Girl in a Field of Flowers

Spending time in nature brings a renewed sense of balance, re-energizing the mind and body and nourishing the soul. Wearing flowers in your hair is a lovely way of taking a little piece of paradise with you as a daily reminder to stop and smell the roses.

Accessories by Nature

Butterfly & Flowers

Who needs an accessories store when Mother Nature provides everything we could possibly need and more?

The Power of One

Single Flower Focal Point

Sometimes all you need is one bold flower as a focal point. Of course, there is no denying that having green hands tends to be an attention-getter as well. (lol)

Hawaiian Traditions

Hawaiian Floral Traditions

Native Hawaiians celebrate beautiful traditions with music, dance, and flowers, and visitors are encouraged to join in the fun.

Timeless Flowers

Granddaughter & Grandmother

Weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries are all great excuses for floral accessories, but you don’t have to wait for a special occasion. Celebrate “Me Day” with flowers!

Flower Girls

Flower Girls

Sweet and sassy flower girls are experts at charming audiences and stealing the show. 

Back to Nature

Back to Nature

Turn an ordinary picnic in the park into a portrait session for you and the kids.

Fairytale Princess

Childhood Fantasy Portrait

Start with an adorable portrait of your precious crowned prince or princess (a.k.a. child) and let the power of photo software magically develop a fairytale image to be treasured for years to come.

Fur Babies

Flowers & Pets

If your kids are fur babies, a few flowers will render heartwarming photo results.

Love & Romance

Orchids & Lilies

Perfectly placed blooms evoke an exquisite romantic vibe.

Beaded Beauty

Indian Traditions

As the bride processes down the aisle, guests are dazzled by a delicately beaded headpiece and a ring of bold red flowers to complete this attractive updo.

All Eyes on Me

Floral Headbands

On the left, a copper headband wrapped in flowers, complemented by beaded copper earrings and shimmering eyeshadow, creates this lovely harmonious look. The more organic style on the right beautifully frames the bride’s face, while dramatic makeup and lashes draw attention to her eyes. 

Confidence is Beautiful

Floral Headbands

Soft and ethereal like a fairy princess or bold and sensual as a siren of the sea, flowers let your personality shine through with confidence.

Floral Fashionistas

Pink & Purple Floral Hairstyles

Makeup, hair, and jewelry accompanied by color-coordinated flowers are the key elements of these fashion forward styles.

Pretty in Pink

Peonies Crown

Peonies are so beautiful, and their scent is intoxicating.

Bold & Beautiful

Red Floral Bridal Hairstyles

If you want to stand out in a crowd, wear red. Flawless makeup with vibrant lip color will have them hanging on every word.

In Perfect Harmony

Beads & Flowers

A white pearl headband and earrings mimic the white hydrangea blossoms and charming lace wedding gown. A filmy pink dress calls for delicate mini roses and pastel blooms of spring.

Poetry in Motion

Mexican Traditions

Flowers, ribbons, and vibrant designs are an integral part of Mexican traditions. Her black dress and hair provide the perfect contrast for the fuchsia and green palette, with a brilliant smile as the cherry on top.

Belle of the Ball

Belle of the Ball

Start with an intricately beaded evening gown, layered with fabric petals and pearl centers. Wispy greens serve as the foundation for a lovely peach floral crown and matching bouquet.  A soft peach makeup palette completes this exceptional formal look. The belle of the ball will be dancing long after midnight.

Flower Power

Fairytale Wedding

If you love being the center of attention, a bold statement is the way to go, and this floral look is unforgettable. The makeup palette perfectly complements this jaw dropping composition. The only disappointment is not seeing how her bridal gown coordinates with such an over-the-top floral display.

Here we are at the end of our flower extravaganza. Hopefully you are inspired to incorporate more flowers into your life. Flowers bring smiles and we all benefit from more happiness.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

How to Make a Lilac Wreath

Purple Lilacs

Lilacs are such beautiful flowers, and their scent is intoxicating. I wish they could bloom all summer, but we can only enjoy them for a few weeks each spring. By creating a silk wreath, you can enjoy lilac blooms year-round. Let’s get started.

Heart- Shaped Grapevine Wreath

Grapevine Wreath

I chose a heart-shaped grapevine, but you can use any shape wreath made from whatever material you prefer.

Flower Layout

Flower Layout

While shopping for a wreath, experiment with flower colors and placement. You will also need wire cutters and floral wire. As an alternative to wire, you could use brown twine.

Wire Floral Picks

Wire Floral Picks

Choose a starting point and begin attaching each floral pick. Because I am working with a heart, I started at the top center point, and moved along the left side, placing each bloom as though it is growing upward.

Progress Photo

Progress Adding Lilacs

Continue adding flowers. When you reach the bottom of the heart, turn the blooms to climb up the right side.

Progress Photo

Progress Arrange Lilacs & Leaves

Adjust the flowers and leaves to fill in any gaps. Trim any visible wires as needed or tuck them into the back of the wreath.

Finished Wreath

Finished Lilac Wreath

I used a piece of purple ribbon to hang the wreath upon a wall. As an optional step, you can recreate that heavenly scent by simply spritzing the finished wreath with lilac essential oil.

I hope you enjoyed this project. Wreath making is a fun and easy craft anyone can do. Over time, the wreath can be easily updated with new flowers to coordinate with your décor.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Flowers – Reality vs. Illusion

Assorted Flowers

Today’s silk flowers easily fool the eye and are available in an infinite assortment.  Prepare to be amazed with the side-by-side photos of silk and live flowers.  Which are real and which are an illusion? Can you tell the difference? Let’s find out…

Birds of Paradise

Birds of Paradise Live vs Silk

Calla Lilies

Calla Lilies Live vs Silk

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemum Live vs Silk

Daffodils

Daffodils Live vs Silk

Dogwood Blooms

Dogwood Live vs Silk

Ferns

Ferns Live vs Silk

Gerber Daisies

Gerber Daisies Live vs Silk

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas Live vs Silk

Magnolias

Magnolias Live vs Silk

Orchids

Orchids Live vs Silk

Poppies

Poppies Live vs Silk

Pussy Willows & Forsythia

Pussy Willows & Forsythia Live vs Silk

Roses

Roses Live vs Silk

Roses – Two Tone

Roses Two Tone Live vs Silk

Stargazer Lilies

Stargazer Lilies Live vs Silk

Sunflowers

Sunflowers Live vs Silk

Tulips

Tulips Live vs Silk

With silk flowers, there’s no need for water, fertilizer, sunshine, or a green thumb.  In the challenge of recognizing live flowers versus silk, how did you do?  Please let me know your thoughts and favorites in the comments section. 

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

A Change of Seasons – Autumn Wreaths

Colorful Leaves
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:

Fall Leaves Wreath
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.

Leafy Wreath
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.

Berries & Peppers Wreath
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.

Wreath with Heart
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.

Wreath Pinecones
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.

Wreath Ribbon
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.

Wreath Twigs
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.

Wreath Wheat Flowers
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.

Orange Floral Wreath
Celebrate Autumn’s favorite color with orange flowers and berries, accented with touches of maroon and green.

Gourds Pumpkins Wreath
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 Wreath
Mickey Mouse fans will love this festive decoration, which will adorn your home with a bit of whimsy from fall through Halloween.

Floral Veggie Wreath
Hydrangeas, berries, and dried fruit adorn an English ivy wreath. As Thanksgiving approaches, replace purple and blue flowers with more seasonal reds and oranges.

Wreath Whimsical
While you are gathering your wreath making supplies, consider including something unexpected, such as this mushroom.

Hedgehog Wreath
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.

Purple Blue & Green Wreath
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.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Flower Power

Multicolor Flowers

Arranging flowers is like painting a masterpiece.  Instead of paints on canvas, you place fresh-cut or silk flowers and leaves in a vase, bottle, or bowl.  Before you begin, you have some decisions to make.  What colors will choose?  How will you create visual interest?  Do you prefer balanced or abstract designs?  What will be your focal point(s)?  Do you have a container in mind?  Would you like to include a few accents, such as berries, or butterflies?  Feel overwhelmed?  Below are several pointers on flower arranging to help you get started. 

Complementary Colors:

Orange & Blue

Complements Orange & Blue

Complementary colors provide maximum contrast.  They say opposites attract.  Maybe that is why this orange butterfly found a blue flower irresistible. 

Yellow & Purple

Complements Purple & Yellow

Yellow shines brilliantly alongside its complement, purple.  This combination is associated with spring as well as Easter. 

Red & Green

Complements Red & Green

Red immediately grabs your attention.  Set against green it really pops.  Although red and green are hallmarks of Christmas, they are perfect any time of year, especially with other accent colors, as shown in the above photo. 

Exotic Focal Points:

Bird of Paradise

Exotic Bird of Paradise

While you are selecting flowers for a new arrangement, consider your focal point(s).  A few exotic flowers bring bold colors, shapes, and textures to your design. 

Dahlias

Exotic Dahlias

Dahlias offer amazing variety.  Check out the gorgeous pink and white dahlia in this photo.  Many people believe the ombre-effect was manmade, but Mother Nature thought of it first. 

Hibiscus

Exotic Hibiscus

Although hibiscus is a readily available flower, the rich, blended colors and delicate details appear to be hand-painted by Mother Nature. 

Monochromatic:

Pinks

Monochrome Pink

Monochromatic designs do not have to be boring.  Choose a variety of flowers in shades of your chosen color and arrange them in a visually pleasing way. 

Purples

Monochrome Purple

Dramatic contrasts in color as well as shape are the keys to this arrangement. 

Multicolor:

Tulips

Mulicolor Tulips

Jewel-tone tulips stand on their own as an easy and attractive centerpiece.

Assorted Flowers

Multicolor Flowers

Pastel colors and small-scale blooms blend harmoniously in this lovely springtime bouquet. 

Floral Design Balance:

Symmetry

Symmetry Asymetry Heart

This arrangement has elements of symmetry and asymmetry.  The heart shape and three roses are symmetrically balanced, while the assorted perimeter flowers are asymmetrical and yet still fit within the overall heart shape. 

Asymmetry

Asymmetry

This asymmetrical centerpiece is an abstract art lover’s dream. 

Floral Accessories:

Cute Critters

Accessorize Birds & Flowers

You might want to include a few well-chosen characters to adorn your floral creations, including birds, butterflies, ladybugs, geckos, and fairies. 

Bouquet Holder

Accessorize Heart Bouquet

Give a floral bouquet an upgrade with a special themed holder, such as this heart for Valentine’s Day, which can be paired with a vase, and reused for years to come. 

Ribbons & Twigs

Accessorize Ribbon Sticks

The bright yellow daffodils contrast well with purple ribbon, woven with other blooms upon a twig base.  In autumn, pinecones, and berries are attractive additions. 

Floral Display Containers:

And the Envelope-Please

Accessorize Ribbon Sticks

Flowers look beautiful no matter how you choose to display them.  For the cute arrangement above, you need to “think inside the box!”  An envelope-shaped box is a sweet surprise and wonderful conversation starter. 

Martini Glass

Container Martini Glass

A new use for an old friend – this martini glass, with an extra-long stem, is a great idea for providing floral beauty, while still enabling guests to see each other across the table. 

Old Fashioned Ceramic Jar

Container Simplicity

For country chic, choose the simplicity of a ceramic jar filled with a few fresh cut blooms.

Water Bowl

Container Bali Floating Flowers

Who needs a vase when you have a water bowl?  A floating mandala design sets a relaxing tone.  If you are having a party, each table could have a unique floating centerpiece to show off your creativity. 

Floral Design Influences:

Religious

Bali Design

This Balinese flower offering exhibits many of the design principles discussed in this post including symmetry, focal point, all six complementary colors, multicolor flowers, and a unique flat design display.  A large outdoor table, in a shaded area, offers a great opportunity for a flat floral centerpiece. 

Cultural (Before & After)

Tropical Rain Forest Before&After

Tropical flowers grow in abundance in Hawaii and are an integral part of their cultural history and traditions.  This beautiful arrangement has a nice selection of exotic flowers, but two elements throw off this design: 1) The red roses do not belong in a tropical arrangement.  2) The metallic silver vase is too contemporary.  To fix it, add more red ginger and anthuriums, and use a Hawaiian drum to conceal the vase, unifying this Polynesian theme. 

Architectural

Architectural Floral Design

A large interior space requires an equally strong floral display, and this one meets that challenge.  These organ pipes have strong vertical lines, multiple levels, sculptural scrolls, and decorative arches, which are echoed in the grooved, scalloped urn, tiered flowers, curled leaves, and bell-shaped flowers.  High contrast of complementary colors can be found in the purple flowers with bold yellow centers, and the blue flowers against the tall orange-red stalks.  Exotic lilies serve as focal points, drawing the eye in toward the rich lush greens and purples and pulling your attention upward, much like the heavenly organ music floating upon the air. 

Sculptural

Sculptural Floral Design

Seashells and lotus blossoms automatically make you think of water.  Beginning at the top, invisible water flows diagonally, from leaf to leaf, making its way back and forth across the arrangement until it reaches the bottom, only to begin the journey anew.  Textures in the seashell are repeated in the leaves.  Whether you spend the day at a pampering spa or have a luxurious soak in the bathtub at home, this soft color palette and gentle flowing movement soothes away your cares bringing peaceful relaxation to body and mind. 

Take your time finding inspiration, developing ideas, and planning your design.  Choosing flowers and creating a unique floral display will shine with your artistic flair.  Enjoy the process and best of luck! 

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

Gifts from the Heart

Frog with Heart
As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s a nice reminder to show appreciation for those who share our lives, including family, friends, and yes even our pets.  It doesn’t have to cost a lot.  In fact, you may already have what you need for the perfect gift.   Here are a few creative ideas to get you started:

Sweets for the Sweet
Homemade Candy & Cookies
Homemade cookies and candy will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Nature Lover
Fruit Hearts
This edible art is delicious & nutritious.

Heart of the Vineyard
Wine Corks Heart
Connoisseurs will appreciate shared memories celebrated with a nice glass of wine.

The Personal Touch
Clay Heart Vase
Gifts made by hand are always the best way to show your love.

Two Hearts Beat as One
Metal & Wood Hearts
Whether you prefer working with wood or metal, this universal symbol of love says it all.

Love is in the Details
Mosaic Heart
Glass, tile, and stones can be used to create mosaic jewelry, tabletops, wall art, etc.

A Rose by Any Other Name
Paper Roses
As timeless symbols of love, these paper roses will forever be in bloom.

Big Bear Hugs
Teddy Bear & Flowers
Everyone could use a hug.  Teddy bears can be sewn, crocheted, or knitted.  If you don’t have those skills, buy one and add a personal touch, such as a bunch of silk flowers or homemade chocolates.

Soft & Dreamy
Watercolor Painting
Watercolor, acrylic or oil paints are the perfect choice for creating beautiful artwork to be treasured for years to come.

Heartfelt Adventure
Pink Stone Heart
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy taking a romantic walk along a beach or trail on a “treasure” hunt, consisting of well-placed hearts made from stones, shells, or flowers.

Presentation is Everything
Heart Earrings
At the end of the treasure hunt mentioned above, surprise your companion with a little gift, such as a bouquet of wildflowers or handmade jewelry.

Reflective Photography
Black Swan
At first glance, you might only notice the beauty of this black swan but look closer and you will see the perfect heart shape created by his reflection.

Just the Two of Us
Romantic Silhouettes
A sunset photo of a couple is a nice keepsake and posing just right forms a heart.

Your BFF
Dog Wearing Scarf
Our best friends are always looking for affection.  A new scarf or a heart charm for the collar are nice options, but the best way to show your love is by giving them your time and attention.  Works for people too!

Thanks for reading.

Happy Valentine’s Day & Happy Crafting!

Countdown – Top Six Posts of 2020

Time Travel
In the movie, “Back to the Future”, Michael J. Fox traveled back in time.  As a new year begins, it’s interesting to review the best moments from the previous year.  As voted by you, the readers, below is a list of the Top Six posts of 2020, in ascending order:

Number 6: Say It with Flowers
Creative Flower Arranging
Flowers have been used for centuries to decorate, commemorate and celebrate the moments of our lives.  Whether you choose fresh cut or silk flowers, the artfully arranged blooms are both a challenge and a triumph for the dedicated crafter.  To read more, please click here.

Number 5: Celebrating 100th Post
100th Post
Today marks a very important milestone – my 100th post!  It has been a wonderful experience, and I thank all my readers and followers.  To read more, please click here.

Number 4: The Beauty of Wood Crafts
Beauty Wood Crafts
Wood crafts are a fun and inexpensive way to express your creativity.  From birdhouses to toys and home décor, there’s something for everyone and these projects are great activities to do with the kids.  To read more, please click here.

Number 3: Tropical Splendor
Tropical Leaves
Ah the tropics!  I’m sure we all wish we could be basking in the sun on a tropical island -sand under your feet, a soft ocean breeze, and a cool fruity drink within reach.  Our travel plans may be on hold for now, but we can dream.  A tropical project may be just what we need to brighten the day and lift our spirits.  To read more, please click here.

Number 2: Thank You
400 Followers
With many thanks to all of you, I have reached an important milestone: 400 Followers.  Thank you to all my readers and followers for liking, commenting, and sharing this creative journey with me.  I am so grateful for each and every one of you.  To read more, please click here.

Number 1: Fun with Photo Editing
Photo Editing
Wouldn’t it be cool if you could simply change a gloomy sky to a gorgeous day with a wave of your arm?  We might not have that ability now, but we can certainly achieve this monumental task through the power of photo editing.  To read more, please click here.

Future Projects
Art Supplies
And there you have it – the top 6 posts of 2020.  Now we have a new year, a clean slate, and together we shall explore the world of creativity.  There are always new ideas, new mediums for experimenting, 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!

All the best in 2021 and Happy Crafting!

Halloween Magic – How to Make a Bewitching Centerpiece

Witch Flying Across Full Moon
The movie Hocus Pocus is celebrating its 27th Anniversary, inspiring witch themed costumes and decorations. Whether you’re having a Halloween party or simply decorating for the fun of it, a centerpiece is a must for the coffee or dining tables. Below are step-by-step instructions and photos for building your own, one piece at a time.

Witch Boots
The Inspiration – As with all creative projects, the first requirement is a source of inspiration. This pair of witch’s boots is sold at Michaels. Although smaller than expected, it still has a spooky vibe. The style varies slightly, but all are black with a silver spider painted on each side. Having a pair of boots is nice, however it’s one piece and can’t be separated. If you prefer a more humorous impression, many stores sell individual witch boots painted in bright, fanciful colors and patterns.

Witch Boots
Step 1. Witch’s Boots – Centered upon this coffee table, these boots look quite sparse, but we’ve only just begun.

Witch Boots with Floral Stems
Step 2. Floral Stems & Owl – For color and texture, the key to this design is choosing strange looking plants in autumn, Halloween colors. Here we have added leafy vines with plush mini pumpkins, and orange lanterns. Bend the stems as needed to adjust the height. Crafter Tips: Do not cut the stems because you may need to adjust the height at the end when the arrangement is complete. (You may not need to cut them at all, simply conceal the bent stems inside the boots). The owl, made from twigs, was already mounted on a long stick for easy placement.

Witch Boots with Pumpkin
Step 3. Jack-O-Lantern – Orange and black – the perfect color combo for Halloween. This resin pumpkin includes optional lighting. High contrast and a brilliant punch of color lend visual interest to this asymmetrical composition. Instead of a pumpkin, you could use a round platter or globe, resembling the full moon, or a light color witch’s broom to contrast with the dark boots.

Witch Boots with Pumpkin & Owl
Step 4. Ceramic Owl – Contemporary details with an eerie presence make this owl a perfect addition by contributing color, light, and texture. Moss green and tan coordinate with the autumn vines and leaves. Feather-like half moon slits in the body of the owl allow light to pass through and the opportunity to insert mini lights inside with the battery pack underneath, wrapped in black fabric. Crafter Tip: Ensure the battery pack’s on/off switch remains accessible.

Add Decanter
Step 5. Decanter – No witch-themed display would be complete without a few unknown potions brewed with magical spells. The clear glass decanter, with four separate chambers and claw-like stoppers, provides much needed height and color on the left end of the display. A little food coloring and water becomes a scary cocktail of witch’s potions. The green color was chosen to coordinate with the other green elements. Alternatives: You could create a grouping of different size bottles or apothecary jars with strange contents inside; or add a book of “spells” and candles to capture the spooky aura. Crafter Tip: Experiment with various objects and colors, being sure to balance the composition.

Add Rat & Snake
Step 6. Rat & Snake – Now we need a few creepy crawlers to stir up our primal fears. A rat on top of the pumpkin seems like a natural choice, and the snake has the added bonus of implying movement, as it appears to slither along the tabletop among the objects in the centerpiece. A trip to a Halloween or craft store is sure to have plenty of options, including spiders, worms, skeleton bones, and the like. A few spider webs might kick up the spooky factor another notch.

Candle Stick
Step 7 Orange Candle & Metal Candleholder – To add height and a pop of color on the left end of the centerpiece, add an orange candlestick in a dark metal candleholder. Although the base of the holder is plain, it provides an opportunity which we will take advantage of in the next step. The candle had been stuck in a box for years, which caused the wax to curve. This works great in a Halloween project, where crooked lines are more desirable than straight ones.

Add Spider
Step 8. Orange & Black Spider – I never thought I would say these words, but this spider is actually quite beautiful. The camera flash tends to wash out the brilliant colored stripes upon the spider’s body, which is covered in tiny orange and black glass beads. The large size and imposing ready-to-strike posture are just what this display needed.

Add Witch's Hat
Step 9. Witch’s Hat – The pumpkin’s toothy grin becomes the witch’s face by the simple addition of a classic black hat, which frames the pumpkin’s face, adds character, and ties all pieces together into a unified Halloween theme.

Finished Centerpiece Illuminated
Step 10. Illumination – This is the finished centerpiece with optional lights turned on inside the owl and pumpkin. It’s spooky fun just like the movie, Hocus Pocus.

Designing a Halloween centerpiece is an enjoyable process for stretching your creative muscles. Start with one piece as an inspiration and decorative items you may already own. Find different ways to use existing items by looking at things in a whole new way with your theme in mind.

Happy Halloween and Happy Crafting!

Say It With Flowers

Soup Tureen with Lilacs
Lilacs Soup Tureen
Flowers have been used for centuries to decorate, commemorate and celebrate the moments of our lives. Whether you choose fresh cut or silk flowers, the artfully arranged blooms are both a challenge and a triumph for the dedicated crafter. The caption beneath each photo, shown below, expresses the sentiments of each floral centerpiece.  What do your flowers say about you?

Yellow & Pink Rain Boots with Gladiolas and Wild Flowers
Rain Boots as Vases
Playful Humor– Filled with long-stemmed, summertime favorites, these adorable boots present a delightful surprise. Using a waterproof product as a vase is the ultimate irony. Let it rain! We’ll go barefoot.

Crafter Tips: Artificial flowers come in bouquets, picks (short stems), long stems, and garlands. Types of containers are only limited by your imagination. Use what you have – lots of items in your home could be used as floral centerpieces, including a bucket, basket, toy truck, and wagon.

Glass Bowl with Orange & Purple Tulips
Glass Bowl with Orange & Purple Tulips
Spring Fever – For a few shorts weeks every year, we are treated to a vast array of candy colored tulips. Fanned out in alternating heights and colors, this asymmetrical centerpiece commands attention. The small leafy greens add texture, and conceal the stems in the clear glass bowl.

Crafter Tips: When arranging flowers, you’ll want to take into consideration the size of the container, the overall shape of flowers (height & width), contrasting light & shadow, colors, textures, and patterns. Where will it be displayed? Do you have a particular occasion or theme in mind? (Seasons of the year, holidays, tropical garden, day at the beach, etc.)

Water Pitcher with Purple Lilacs & White Sweet Alysse
Water Pitcher with Purple Lilacs & White Sweet Alysse
Abundance – A painted floral motif adorns this antique fine china pitcher, spilling over with delicate pastel blossoms. As a vessel for water, it projects a sense of fresh cut flowers, even if the flowers are artificial.

Crafter Tips: Wire cutters, from a craft or home improvement store, will make the process much easier. Some silk flower stems are made to easily bend and break to the length you want, but don’t count on it.  If cutting the wire is too difficult, bend the stem and hide it with the foliage. Secure flowers using: ties, glue, green florist tape, or by poking the stems into a foam base. Use vines, moss, leaves, or other material to conceal the foam and stems as needed.

Paint Can with Peach Roses & Carnations
Paint Can with Peach Roses & Carnations
Monochromatic Magic – Sometimes a single color can really pack a punch. The lush green leaves offset warm peach flowers in a variety of shapes and sizes. The paint can, an interesting choice, has been covered in coordinating gift-wrapping paper. The white babies breath adds softness to this warm floral palette.

Crafter Tip: You’ll be amazed at the beautiful selection of floral accessories, such as butterflies, birds, glass marbles, candles, and LED lights. The sky is the limit for to what you can achieve.

Black Stiletto Pump & Evening Bag with White Alstroemeria
Black Stiletto Pump & Evening Bag with White Alstroemeria
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – A chic study in black and white, this impressive display is sophisticated and sassy. The textured metal chain and sleek stone surface contrast with the soft white petals. Obvious question: What happened to Cinderella’s other shoe?

Wicker Basket with Purple Lilacs
Wicker Basket with Purple Lilacs
Impromptu – Easy and carefree, it looks like you just came inside from the garden with a treasure trove of heavenly scented lilacs. For silk blooms, a few drops of essential oil will scent the air, and you’ll enjoy these flowers all year long.

Tea Cup & Saucer with Pink Flowers
Floral Teacup
Clever – Delicate flowers in a china teacup make a great gift or perfect centerpieces for a bridal shower or afternoon tea. After a party, your guests will be competing over who gets to take home the centerpieces.

Grapevine Tricycle with Blue & White Orchids
Floral Tricycle
Child’s Play – Fragile green vines weave their way around this grapevine tricycle. The glass hurricane in the back creates a soft glow when light hits the yellow flower centers. Feel like a little kid again while you admire this playful beauty.

Watering Can with Purple Flowers
Watering Can with Purple Flowers
Casual – You know you have green thumbs when flowers burst forth from your watering can! Like you favorite pair of denim jeans, there’s a relaxed, easygoing vibe suitable for every day. No special tools or items are required, and you can easily swap out the flowers whenever you like.

Driftwood & Flowers
Floral Driftwood Centerpiece
Coastal Drama – An interesting piece of driftwood combined with thoughtfully placed flowers become a sculptural piece of art for your table.

Tree Bark & Exotic Flowers
Flowers & Tree Bark
Woodland Drama – The rough, textured bark contrasts beautifully with the delicate purple petals of a single flower stem in this elegantly simple design.

What Lies Beneath
Flowers Underwater
Unexpected Pleasure – At one time or another, we have all had the experience of putting flowers in a vase. In this example, the vase disappears as the submerged white flowers reach toward the light at the surface. Clear glass marbles anchor the stems and also reflect light for a touch of sparkling glamour.

Orchids in the Spotlight
Lit Orchid Centerpieces
Romantic Ambiance – Lighting is the key element in creating nighttime drama. Soft, diffused light glows from within each frosted glass vase, as orchids spill over the top, receiving the full star treatment, lit brilliantly from below by LEDs. The resulting ambiance is both dreamy and romantic.

So much can be said with flowers. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or an intimate dinner for two, flowers have a great way of setting the mood with playful exuberance, heartfelt devotion, or the excitement of infinite possibilities.

Thanks for reading & Happy Crafting!