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!

Valentine’s Conundrum

True Love

Valentine’s Day – There are many ways to celebrate…

Indulge in a romantic dinner for two.

Valentines Dinner

Toast your love with champagne on ice.

Valentines Champagne

Savor decadent chocolates by the box full.

Valentines Candy

Which brings us to a very strange event occurring on the same day this year…

Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday

It may sound crazy, but it’s true. Ash Wednesday, a day of fasting and prayer falls upon February 14th, a day of indulgence and passion. Really? How did that happen? Oh well, I guess there’s an easy solution.

If you want to enjoy sweet desserts,

Sweet Desserts

fine wine and lots of chocolate, …

Chocolates

celebrate the day before! lol

Mardi Gras Parade

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

Valentine’s Day Crafts of Love

Love Birds
Valentine’s Day is a great time to let those special people in your life know how much you care – spouse, partner, girlfriend, boyfriend, mother, father, kids, grandparents, friends, and the list goes on… Flowers are nice, but a show of affection doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, some of the simplest ways cost very little, but mean so much.

Drawing, Coloring & Painting
No Words Necessary
Sometimes no words are necessary. Create a simple drawing or a fine arts painting.

Papercrafting & Creative Writing
Papercraft
Instead of buying expensive greeting cards, buy fancy paper or card stock and write your own message. A few well-chosen words or a favorite quote will do nicely, or you might want to challenge yourself by writing a poem.

Candle Light For A Romantic Evening
Candle Light For A Romantic Evening
Candles provide light, scent and ambiance. The incredible selections include beeswax, fragrances, multicolor, tea lights, pillars, tapers, battery operated LEDs, and electric. If you can’t find exactly what you want, get a candle making kit.

Baking Sweets For Your Sweet Heart
Baking Sweets For Your Sweet Heart
With the infinite number of recipes on the Internet, and the availability of boxed baked goods, anyone can bake delicious cookies, cakes, and breads.

Who Doesn’t Love Candy?
Candy & Flowers
Store-bought candy comes in mouth-watering flavors. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, buy candy melts and a mold to surprise the chocolate lover in your life with a few homemade confections. A heart shaped box can be purchased to complete this romantic theme.

Jewelry Making
Jewelry Making
Jewelry is a versatile gift for women, men and kids. Obviously there are many readymade items on the market, but if you make your own, it’s sure to be one of a kind.

Valentine’s Figurines
Valentine’s Frog Figurines
If you can’t find the right words, and the thought of making something gives you chills, there are plenty of inexpensive Valentine’s figurines sure to charm your loved one.

Stuffed Animals
Teddy Bear
A big cuddly bear could be just the ticket to getting a big “bear” hug.

Charms & Trinkets
Charms
Located in the jewelry aisle of the craft store, charms and pendants can be added to an existing bracelet or necklace, and can also be used on key chains and purses.

Flower Arranging
Silk Flowers
While fresh cut flowers can be outrageously expensive for Valentine’s Day, silk flower can be arranged in a pretty vase or container at a much more affordable price.

Photography & Framing
Decorative Silver & Blue Picture Frame
We all have special moments in our lives. Times we want to remember for a lifetime. Take a photo of that special person, event or location and place in an attractive frame.

Knitting & Crocheting
Knitted Gloves
Crocheted or knitted hats, scarves and gloves are always appreciated. The addition of faux fur trim is a hot trend in fashion today.

Don’t Forget Your Furry Friends
Dog in a Blanket
A blanket is the perfect accessory for a warm and cozy nap on a cold winter day.  If needlework is not in your skill set, a new toy or a playdate will thrill your pet.

It doesn’t matter how you choose to say it. Just let your loved ones know how you feel.

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!

Crafts of Love – Valentine’s Day Gifts

Frogs in Love
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your appreciation for the people you love.

Valentine's Cake
Celebrate with a Lady Finger Torte, Layer Cake, Cherry Cheesecake, Cupcakes, or Cake pops. Anything homemade is always appreciated. And if baking is not your specialty, buy one at the bakery, put it on your own serving dish and it will be our little secret! (lol)

Homemade Candy
Candy making is an easy process for everyone, even beginners. Start by melting chocolate wafers, called candy melts, which come in a variety of colors and flavors. Pour the chocolate into molds and refrigerate according to directions. You might also consider chocolate covering strawberries, nuts, graham crackers, or marshmallows. Present the finished pieces in a heart-shaped box or container.

Decorated Valentine's Cookies
Decorated cookies are eye-catching as well as delicious. Whether you choose homemade cookies or plain store-bought, add icing details, candy, or sprinkles to complete your festive designs.

Roses
Fresh-cut or silk flowers can be arranged in a bouquet, vase, or heart-shaped wreath. You don’t have to go to the expense of buying roses because any type of flowers will be appreciated.

Bleeding Hearts Flowers
Live flowers in a hanging basket or pot are not only beautiful, but long lasting as well. The flowers shown have not been photo shopped. They really are heart shaped, hence the name “bleeding hearts.”

Glass Heart
A glass paperweight, suncatcher, or pendant is a beautiful option.

Heart Charm
You could also paint a wooden heart to be hung on a wall, included on a wreath, or as a charm on a gift package or handbag.

Jewelry
Beaded jewelry is easy to create. If you don’t have those skills, you can buy a readymade chain or cord and string over-size beads without the need for any tools.

Winged Heart
You could also buy a heart-shaped pendant and add it to an existing chain or choose a new one.

Love Song or Poem
If you have a gift with words, write a song or poem on specialty paper to suit the occasion.

Painting
Artwork, such as painting, drawing, and photography, is a personal way to share your talent and show your affection at the same time.

Photo Album
A scrapbook is a thoughtful way to commemorate family memories and special events.

Vision Board
Create a vision board or photo album with inspirational travel brochures, activities and scenic pictures to build excitement for an upcoming vacation.

Candle Making
Candle making is simplified using a kit. There are multiple options including colors, shapes, sizes, and essential oils scents.

Romantic Dinner
You can’t go wrong with dinner for two. This is the perfect venue for candles, printed napkins on a pink or red tablecloth, and creative place settings to set the mood for a romantic evening.

Heart Pillow
Sewing a pillow is a quick colorful project to coordinate with any décor.

Knitting
A knitted scarf, hat, gloves, or sweater will keep that special someone warm and cozy on a cold winter day, and it will be enjoyed for years to come.

Stuffed Animals
Who doesn’t love cuddly stuffed animals, especially teddy bears? If you are skilled with a needle and thread, you could make a bear with faux fur or buy one. There’s nothing like a big bear hug to brighten your day and chase away the blues.

Sunset at the Beach
It is said, “The best things in life are free.” Go to the beach, the mountains, a nearby park, or your own backyard. Any place will do to spend time together watching the sunset, enjoying a picnic or barbecue, or simply going for a walk hand in hand. Expressions of love don’t need to cost a lot, just a little creativity and a heartfelt message.

Happy Valentine’s Day and Happy Crafting!