Hands-on tutorials and creative projects you can make yourself — from painted denim to sardine-print skirts. These posts are all about transforming everyday materials into something uniquely you.
Shredded docs → sassy fish. 🐟 Reel In the Craft of the Day!
If your living room tree is more “ever-delightful” than “evergreen,” these Kraft Paper Fish Ornaments are a playful way to keep it dressed up between holidays. They’re eco-friendly, easy to make, and give you an excuse to break out the crayons, paints, and markers like a kid again. Bonus? This recycled craft adds some serious charm to your earthy, year-round tree.
Download & Print Grab the fish template and print it on letter-size Kraft paper.
Double It Up Place a blank sheet of Kraft paper behind each printed design. Hold both sheets together and cut out your fish shape. (Keep each cut-out pair together!)
Decorate Color, paint, or doodle your heart out on one side of each fish.
Staple & Stuff Lay the decorated fish on top of its blank twin. Staple halfway around the edge so it looks like cute little stitches. Leave an opening, then stuff it with shredded paper. Tuck in any strays.
Add the Hanger Cut 5-inch ribbons, knot them into loops, and staple one to the back of each fish at the top fin.
Close It Up Finish stapling around the fish to seal it in. Done!
Pro Tip: Try this same method with my other templates—birds, bugs, shells, starfish, or milagros. Mix them together for a whimsical, garden-of-delights tree that feels alive all year long.
Sometimes the perfect upholstery pattern just doesn’t exist on a fabric bolt—you have to make it yourself. That’s exactly what I did with these mid-century modern dining chairs. Inspired by the layered, global vibe of Ethnic Chic—a style that blends cultures, textures, and traditions into one “well-traveled” look—I decided to hand-paint my own bold sunburst motif. The result? A fresh, personal update that feels both modern and timeless, and a project anyone can tackle with a little creativity and patience.
Upholstered seat and seat back before and after hand painting sunburst pattern
How to Paint Your Own Upholstery Pattern
Supplies You’ll Need:
Dining chairs (or any upholstered seat with removable cushions)
Screwdriver (to remove seat + seat back)
Wax paper + inkjet printer
Computer design program (or a printed pattern you love)
Fabric paint + small paintbrushes
Damp cloth
Steps:
Prep your chair Unscrew the seat and seat back to make painting easier.
Create your pattern Design your motif on the computer (I went with a circular, sunburst-style pattern). Convert it to a bold outline in the color you’d like—reddish-brown worked beautifully on my cream fabric.
Transfer the design Print the pattern onto wax paper with your inkjet printer. Lay the print ink-side down on the fabric and rub the backside to transfer the design. Wax Paper Ink Jet Transfer Tutorial
Paint the pattern Use fabric paint and a stiff brush to carefully go over your transferred lines. Don’t rush—steady brushstrokes will make your design pop.
Clean it up Once the paint is completely dry, gently wipe away any leftover transfer marks with a damp cloth.
Reassemble your chair Screw the seat and seat back into place, and admire your one-of-a-kind creation!
How to Make Metal Embossed Seashells and Starfish Ornaments
Yep, you read that right-I keep a tree in my living room year-round, and instead of packing it away after December, I just keep dressing it up with whatever makes me smile. Birds, flowers, seashells, starfish—you name it, it finds a branch. Think of it as a revolving gallery of my whims.
Today I’m showing you how to make your own shiny DIY ornaments using metal embossing. Don’t worry—it sounds way fancier than it is (spoiler: you’ll be using a ballpoint pen). The end result? Handmade ornaments that catch the light beautifully and bring a little beachy, earthy magic into your space, no matter the season.
Embossing tools (get creative: a ball stylus, a wooden clay tool, even an orange stick from your nail kit works!)
Ribbon (about ⅛-inch wide, cut into 5-inch strips—one per ornament)
Safety note: aluminum edges can be sharp. Pop on a pair of gloves while you’re working to save your hands and keep things clean.
Step 1: Prep your template
Print out your seashell and starfish templates. Rough cut around each shape, leaving about a half-inch border of plain paper.
Step 2: Cut your craft metal
Snip a piece of aluminum foil from the roll that’s the same size as your craft foam sheet. Place it on top of the foam—this creates your “cushion” for embossing.
Step 3: Tape & trace
Tape the paper templates onto your craft metal. With your trusty ballpoint pen, trace the outlines of the shapes. Don’t press too hard—you want lines, not holes. (Flip it over as you go to check your progress.)
Step 4: Add the fun details
Now comes the satisfying part: embossing! Use whichever tool feels good in your hand and press in lines, dots, and textures to bring your seashells and starfish to life. Pro tip: flip the metal over to press designs in the opposite direction for extra depth.
Step 5: Make a hole for hanging
Each template has a little circle at the top—trace it, then press through with your pen tip to create a hanging hole. Wiggle the pen gently to widen it just enough for your ribbon.
Step 6: Cut them out
Carefully cut around each ornament shape. (Reminder: those edges can be sharp, so take your time and protect your hands!)
Step 7: Ribbon & hang
Thread your 5-inch ribbon through the hole, tie a knot, and ta-da—you’ve got a shiny, ocean-inspired ornament ready to sparkle on your tree.
And there you have it—your very own set of handmade, nature-inspired ornaments. I love how they shimmer in the light and bring a touch of seaside magic indoors. The best part? They look just as good hanging with flower garlands and bird ornaments in spring as they do alongside twinkle lights in December.
Hey there, creative souls! Let me introduce you to something that’s been in the works for a while now—the Poodoodle Journal. It’s more than just a notebook; it’s a creative companion designed to help you unleash your ideas, without the pressure or perfectionism that often holds us back.
The Birth of the Poodoodle Journal
The idea for the Poodoodle Journal came from my own struggle with the dreaded blank page. You know, that empty stare-down where your mind goes blank and creativity feels miles away? Sound familiar? I’ve been there too many times to count, and I realized: we need something to help us embrace that initial mess, the not-so-perfect ideas, and the glorious “oops” moments.
That’s where the Poodoodle comes in.
I wanted to create a space where anything goes. A place to doodle, brainstorm, make lists, scribble down half-baked ideas, and write without judgment. The Poodoodle Journal is here to remind you that creativity doesn’t need to be perfect to be beautiful. Whether your ideas are fresh, funky, or even a little funky-looking, it’s all good. The journal’s name alone is a playful nod to this—because sometimes a little fun (and a little nonsense) is exactly what we need to spark our best ideas.
Poodoodle Journal Features
140 dotted pages: The dots give you just enough structure for sketches, bullet points, and creative layouts, but they don’t box you in. It’s all about flexibility.
5.5″ × 8.5″: A compact size that’s perfect for tossing in your bag, yet spacious enough to let your ideas stretch out.
Wire-bound for easy use: No awkward flipping or bending. It’s ready to go, wherever you are.
And here’s a little bonus inspiration on the back cover:
That’s right. Not every idea has to be a stroke of genius. Sometimes, you’ve got to start with the so-so ones and let them evolve. The Poodoodle Journal is here to encourage that messy, beautiful process.
A Thoughtful Purchase
One of the things I’m most proud of with the Poodoodle Journal is how it’s made. Each journal is crafted just for you when you place your order. No mass production, no piles of unsold stock. This on-demand model helps reduce overproduction and waste, so every purchase is a more sustainable choice. How cool is that?
Let’s Doodle, Let’s Create
I truly believe that creativity flourishes when we take the pressure off and just let the ideas flow—no matter how imperfect they may seem. So, if you’ve been staring at a blank page, hoping for inspiration to strike, it’s time to stop waiting. Pick up the Poodoodle Journal, and let the creative chaos begin.
Remember, it’s not about the end result; it’s about the process. So let’s make room for a little mess, a little doodle, and a whole lot of inspiration.
I hope this inspires you to dive into your next creative adventure. Whether you’re sketching your dreams, planning your goals, or just letting your thoughts run wild, the Poodoodle Journal is here to help you do it all—no stress, no pressure, just pure creative freedom.
The Dino Denim Jacket has officially made its mark—and what a roar-some statement it was! Auctioned at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science’s 2023 fundraiser, Cretaceous Couture, this unique hand-painted jacket left buyers and guests in awe, capturing the perfect blend of creativity, fun, and fashion.
A Dino-Mite Twist on Denim
The jacket was more than just a piece of clothing—it was a canvas waiting for creativity to come alive. The sleeves were adorned with whimsical, white dinosaur shapes—perfectly poised for little artists to add their personal flair. Buyers had the chance to transform their prehistoric pals, whether it was a T-Rex with colorful rainbow spots, a Triceratops in neon stripes, or perhaps a Stegosaurus in cozy pajamas!
What made this jacket so special was the interactive aspect. It wasn’t just about wearing a jacket—it was about creating one. The dino designs offered endless possibilities for imagination to take flight.
The Paint-Your-Own Jacket Kit
Each Dino Denim Jacket came with a special kit that included 3D fabric paints in a range of vibrant colors, turning the jacket into an exciting craft project. The paint was easy to apply, dried quickly, and—most importantly—lasted through wear and tear, making it the ideal material for young, enthusiastic artists.
Painted sleeves with frolicking dinosaurs.
A Jacket with a Purpose
Beyond the fun of designing and wearing a personalized jacket, the Dino Denim Jacket was also created with a heart full of purpose. The jacket was a featured in the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science’s fundraiser, with proceeds supporting important programs in science education and museum outreach.
Not only did the lucky winner walk away with an extraordinary, one-of-a-kind piece of art, but they also contributed to a cause that inspires future generations of explorers, scientists, and artists. It was a win-win situation for both fashion and philanthropy!
Final Thoughts
The Dino Denim Jacket proved to be more than just a fashion statement—it was a full-on creative experience! The jacket provided the perfect outlet for self-expression, while also supporting a cause that nurtures curiosity and love for science. Whether it was the chance to personalize a favorite jacket or the thrill of owning a unique, one-of-a-kind piece, this product certainly left a lasting impression.
While this particular jacket is now a collectible, we can’t help but hope that it inspires other dino-mite creations in the future! Keep your eyes peeled—you never know when the next interactive art-meets-fashion sensation might pop up! 🦕🎨
This quirky little garden project began with a plain old cement rabbit from a local garden store—and ended in one of my favorite creations yet: a hip jackalope garden display that brings personality and humor to any outdoor space.
Groovy garden vibes with this jackalope statue 🕶️🦌
How to Build a Jackalope Garden Display (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Base Clean & Prime
Clean your cement rabbit thoroughly. I used a stiff brush to remove dirt, then gave it a rinse and let it dry in the sun. A layer of white gesso helped the paint stick better.
Step 2: Build the Antlers
Using Apoxie Sculpt, I formed two simple antlers—kind of like big branching Y’s. Let them cure fully overnight, then lightly sanded the surface for better paint adhesion.
Step 3: Paint & Detail
Paint the rabbit in your desired color scheme. I went with desert tones—brown body, soft white chest, and black outlines for pop. Once dry, I added 3D puff paint for extra texture along the fur lines and ears.
Step 4: Accessorize
The finishing touch was a pair of novelty sunglasses I picked up from Etsy. I hot-glued these right onto the snout for max cool factor.
Shady and serene 🌵
Why I Made This
I was going through a tough time mentally when I began this project. Sculpting the antlers and painting slowly over a few days felt like a form of meditative healing. Giving a bunny antlers and calling it a jackalope somehow gave me a laugh I really needed—and now it brings that joy to everyone who sees it in my front yard.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to combine playfulness, art, and a little bit of desert folklore into one project, the jackalope garden display is it. Whether you’re gifting it, auctioning it, or just sprucing up your own yard, this DIY jackalope will absolutely steal the show.
What is one way to hide a chaotic heap of twisted cords beneath a colossal TV screen? My solution includes strategically positioning a visual diversion: A custom console styled with arty pots on the bottom and a Nambé bowl on the top. This project is for a home with an interior that is a nice mix of Modern and Ethnic Chic. (What is Ethnic Chic?)
I’ve been pinning images of illustrated furniture for years. This project was my chance to dive in and give it a try. I found an unpainted sofa table that was the right size and style. Once the table was assembled, I removed the knobs, pulled out the drawer, and lightly sanded and primed all surfaces. Then I coated it with a few layers of satin latex paint and gave the drawer slides a very light coat to keep them in good sliding condition. I created an illustration the same dimensions as the drawer front using Adobe Illustrator. Next, I printed the illustration to size and it became my pattern. I traced the artwork by sandwiching a sheet of Saral Transfer paper between the print out and the drawer face. After the artwork was transferred to the drawer front, I drew on top of the traced image with a paint pen. NOTE: It was really important to let each layer dry the recommended amount of time, as well as, lightly sand between coats. After all the paint had cured for two weeks, I covered the table with several coats of poly acrylic (again – pay attention to drying times and sanding between coats). I rubbed a bar of soap on the drawer slides to improve their glide and attached the knobs. Kinda cool. Kinda artsy. I heart.
Still trying to decide if this paper craft is cuter than, happy as, or crazy as (a June bug). Either way, I’m ready to release this swarm of June bugs into my living room. The bright colored insects will serve as tree ornaments celebrating the holiday known as summer.
Paper Bug Craft
Did you know?
Real June bugs emerge from the soil at the end of spring or the beginning of the summer and are famous for bumping into porch lights and sneaking into houses. “(A June bug) Often tries to sneak into houses, either by flying right in when the door is open, or by hitching a ride on somebody’s clothes like a little ninja. Harmless to humans and cannot bite. Despite their name, they can come out as early as May.”URBAN DICTIONARY
June bugs are related to scarabs from ancient Egyptian iconography. TERMINIX FACT
June bugs have a spiritual side. They show how to balance and remain grounded. METAPHYSICALSCIENCES2012 Learn more about their SPIRITUAL MEANING
Either trace bug pieces and leaves onto colored paper using transfer paper or pinch template and paper together and trim.
Gently curl wings using a writing element with a curved exterior – like a marker. Hold the element like a wand, place it under a wing with your thumb on top of the wing and gently pull from the inside to the outside of the wing. Repeat for each wing.
Decorate bug pieces as you choose. Some ideas: paint ombre gradients, draw tangle patterns with markers, layer colored tissue paper with Mod Podge, glue yarn in swirly patterns. Stuck? I got a lot of inspiration from my Pinterest collection of beautiful bug art: bug_inspiration
Attach layers using scotch tape or glue. Layering formula for each bug is shown at the bottom of templates.
Attach googly eyes. The moth doesn’t have room on its head for the eyes, but they can be glued to the wings!
Cut and bend chenille stems to match the legs and antennae shown on each template. Tape in place on the back/undecorated side of the bugs.
Fold leaves as shown on the bottom of each template. Veins can be added by drawing and applying gentle pressure on the back with a dull pencil.
Once your paper June bugs are ready to swarm, you can strategically place them in houseplants, decorate a year-round holiday tree, give them to friends named, “June,” or use them to decorate the fridge door!
Mother Earth is miffed at the apparel industry. It is the second largest polluter in the world, after the oil industry. Americans throw out an average of 80 pounds of clothing per year. Two River Times
You know Cowboy Kimono is all about upcycling denim jackets, but did you know that Cotton’s Blue Jean’s Go Program gives you a discount if you turn in an old pair of jeans before buying a new one? Participating companies partner with Cotton to make it easy for you to recycle your denim.
Another trendy way to bring your jeans back from the dead is Boro. Patch the jeans you have using this bold stitching technique and fabric scraps. “Central to Boro is the concept of finding beauty in mending—that nothing should ever be wasted, and that imperfections have their own subtle and simple appeal.” Indigoniche.com
Breathing life into someone else’s castoff doesn’t always mean a trip to the thrift store or dumpster diving. Online second-hand stores like ThredUP or Patagonia’s Worn Wear line (clothing made from recycled garments) let you shop without leaving home.
Trade your jeans locally with trading groups.Share creatively and tread lightly on the planet by trading your jeans for something else in a local BuyNothing group.Rojos Brazos painted denim jacket by Cowboy Kimono
Cowboy Kimono’s favorite way to extend the life of denim is to purchase recrafted or upcycled clothing and accessories. Most of my hand painted denim jackets start as thrift store purchases! Check out Patagonia’s Worn Wear selection of recycled denim Worn Wear by Patagonia
An irresistible paper craft originally created to celebrate the Year of the Ox, 2021. Simple instructions follow – but first a brief history of the Lunar New Year from Pinterest:
Celebration of Luck, Health, and Togetherness
“Marking the first new moon of calendars traditional to many East Asian countries, Lunar New Year is a multi-day celebration of luck, health and togetherness celebrated by billions of people around the world. February 12 marks this year’s festivities, beckoning in the Year of the Ox according to the Chinese zodiac. And while this year’s celebrations may be at home this year, the rich traditions of this holiday aren’t going anywhere.“
How Lunar New Year Came To Be
“The legends behind the Lunar New Year date back thousands of years. The tale goes that at the beginning of each new year, there was a monster that attacked a village. The monster was afraid of loud noise, bright lights and the color red, so the villagers banded together to scare it off by hosting loud celebrations and wearing red. Each year is represented by a different animal, the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac, with this year represented by the ox, which symbolizes patience and cheerfulness. The Chinese zodiac has been adopted by many countries throughout Asia. Lunar New Year is celebrated in a variety of ways across different Asian cultures. For example, in China, the celebration is often called the Spring Festival, in Tibet it’s known as Losar, and in Vietnam, it’s called Tết. It’s widely celebrated amongst the Asian diaspora all over the world, making it a truly global holiday.” https://www.pinterest.com/today/article/how-to-celebrate-lunar-new-year-2021/64041/
Print template’s front square, flip paper and print back on same page.
Cut out red square from the printed page.
Fold origami bookmark using photo guide or YouTube video link
Cut out nose, ears, head flower, nose ring, horns and tassel strips.
Clip tassel strips as shown in photo (below).
Glue nose beneath eyes, making sure not to glue the pocket opening. Glue the nose ring to the nostrils.
Gently pinch each ear on the tip and glue to the back side of the head.
Glue the horns slightly above the ears.
Glue the head flower over the printed flower.
Make the tassels by putting a dot of glue on the left and right, unclipped edge of each strip. Place the tip of a 3-inch piece of yarn or thin ribbon in the glue with the remaining length going up and away from the unclipped edge. Repeat for the second strip. Tightly roll each strip lengthwise. Pinch for a few seconds to allow the glue to take hold. Put a dot of glue on the top, unclipped part of the tassel and wrap with a 2-inch piece of yarn or thin ribbon. Glue the end and repeat for the second tassel. Tie the tassels together at the top and glue the knot to the back side, center of the head.
