36 Creative Things to Make with Cardboard

Cardboard is one of those wonderfully versatile materials that often gets overlooked. Whether you’re an avid crafter or just looking for a way to keep the children entertained, here are 36 creative ideas to transform plain old cardboard into something truly special.

1. Cardboard Playhouse: Create a delightful playhouse for kids by cutting out windows and doors, and let them paint it to add their personal touch.

2. Storage Organisers: Construct stylish organisers for desks or drawers using cardboard boxes, covered with decorative paper or paint for a customised look.

3. Greeting Cards: Design unique greeting cards by folding and cutting cardboard into shapes, then embellish them with drawings or cut-outs.

4. Wall Art: Use thick cardboard to make stunning wall art pieces. Experiment with layering and paint to create a three-dimensional effect.

5. Sculptures: Channel your inner artist and craft abstract sculptures by stacking and gluing pieces of cardboard together.

6. Board Games: Design your own custom board games, complete with a game board, pieces, and dice, all crafted from cardboard.

7. Gift Boxes: Skip the shop-bought options and create personalised gift boxes for special occasions, decorated to match the theme of your celebration.

8. Mini Furniture: Build miniature furniture for dolls or action figures, from chairs to tables, allowing for hours of imaginative play.

9. Costumes: Get creative with costumes, using cardboard to make hats, masks, and other accessories for fancy dress parties.

10. Animal Masks: Craft animal masks by cutting out shapes from cardboard and using string or elastic to wear them, perfect for school plays or parties.

These initial ideas are just the tip of the iceberg. The beauty of cardboard lies not only in its accessibility but also in its potential to spark creativity. Whether it’s an afternoon project with the kids or a solo endeavour, there’s no limit to what you can achieve with just a few pieces of cardboard and a bit of imagination. Ready, set, craft!

5 Minute Macrame Plant Hanger DIY Tutorial | Feeling Nifty

Looking to brighten up your indoor space with a touch of greenery and a bit of creative flair? This quick and easy DIY tutorial from Feeling Nifty will guide you through making your very own macrame plant hanger in just five minutes! Perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, this project requires minimal materials and tools.

Start by gathering some cotton rope, scissors, and a pot for your plant. With just a few simple knots, you’ll create a stylish and functional holder that not only showcases your favourite plants but also adds a lovely bohemian aesthetic to your home. The best part? You don’t need any prior macrame experience—just a bit of enthusiasm!

Join us as we walk you through each step, with handy tips to ensure your plant hanger turns out beautifully. In no time, you’ll have a chic addition to your décor and a new skill to flaunt. So grab that rope and let’s get knotting!

Creating DIY mini accordion books is a delightful way to explore your creativity while crafting a unique keepsake. At Crafty Nest, we adore the charm of these petite volumes, perfect for journaling, sketching, or simply showcasing your favourite quotes and memories.

To begin, gather your materials: a few sheets of sturdy paper, some decorative cardstock for the cover, and a pair of scissors. The beauty of these books lies in their simplicity—cut your paper into consistent strips, then fold them into a concertina shape, adhering them together at one end to form the spine.

Once your accordion structure is ready, it's time to let your imagination run wild! Use stamps, washi tape, or hand-drawn illustrations to bring each page to life. You might even consider adding pockets for mementoes or tags that hold special messages.

Finally, cover your book with the decorative cardstock, securing it with a lovely ribbon or some twine for an added touch of whimsy. Whether a gift for a friend or a personal project, your DIY mini accordion book will be a treasured creation to flip through time and again. Happy crafting!

Making paper snowflakes is a delightful and simple craft that can bring a touch of winter magic indoors. Here’s how to create your own frosty designs.

Materials Needed:

• A square piece of paper (white is traditional, but any colour will do)
• Scissors
• A pencil (optional)
• A decorative surface to display your snowflakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Paper: Start with a square piece of paper. If you have a rectangular sheet, simply fold one corner down to the opposite edge to form a triangle, then cut off the excess paper.

2. Fold the Paper: Once you have a square, fold the paper in half diagonally to create a triangle. Then, fold it again in half to form a smaller triangle. For more intricate designs, you can fold it a third time, bringing the two outer corners together.

3. Create the Design: Use scissors to cut shapes along the edges of the triangle. You can make small notches, curves, or even geometric shapes. Remember, the more you cut, the more intricate your snowflake will be; just be careful not to cut all the way through.

4. Unfold Your Snowflake: Carefully unfold the paper to reveal your unique snowflake. Each one will be different, showcasing your creativity.

5. Display Your Work: You can tape your snowflakes to windows, hang them from the ceiling, or use them to adorn cards and gifts.

Enjoy the charm of your handmade paper snowflakes as they dance in the winter light!

Etched glass is a captivating craft that merges artistry with practical elegance, making it a popular choice for both hobbyists and professional artisans. This technique involves the meticulous application of acid or abrasive materials to create intricate designs on glass surfaces, resulting in stunning pieces that can serve both decorative and functional purposes.

From personalised glassware and bespoke window panels to striking wall art, etched glass items have a unique charm that appeals to a wide audience. Vintage-style coasters, elegant candle holders, and customised wedding gifts often feature etched designs, making them top sellers in the marketplace. The demand for handcrafted pieces continues to rise, particularly at craft fairs and online platforms, where consumers seek distinctive items that add character to their homes.

For those looking to venture into this craft, establishing a signature style and promoting quality craftsmanship can lead to a thriving business. As sustainability becomes increasingly important, using recycled glass adds an eco-friendly element that can further enhance the appeal of etched glass creations. Whether for personal enjoyment or entrepreneurship, the art of etching glass offers endless possibilities and the chance to create pieces that resonate with buyers across the UK.

Creating DIY garden signs with the Cricut Maker is a delightful way to personalise your outdoor space while showcasing your creativity. The Cricut Maker, with its versatile cutting capabilities, allows you to transform ordinary materials into beautiful, custom signs that can add charm to any garden.

To begin, select your design, whether it’s a whimsical quotation, botanical illustrations, or plant labels. The user-friendly Design Space software makes it easy to customise your chosen template. Once you’ve finalised your design, simply load your selected material—such as wood, acrylic, or outdoor vinyl—into the Cricut Maker. The machine’s precision cutting will ensure that your letters and shapes are crisp and clean.

After cutting, all that’s left is to assemble your sign. You can paint or stain the wood for a rustic look, or opt for a bright colour palette to make your sign pop against the greenery. Finishing touches, like sealing with a weatherproof spray, will ensure your creation withstands the elements. With a bit of imagination and the capabilities of the Cricut Maker, you can craft unique garden signs that not only direct the eye but also tell a story, making your garden a true reflection of your style.

Creating your very own tote bag is a delightful project, perfect for both beginners and seasoned sewists alike. To start, gather your materials: you'll need a sturdy cotton fabric, some coordinating thread, and a pair of handles—either store-bought or handmade.

Begin by cutting your fabric into two rectangles, typically measuring about 40cm by 45cm. This will form the main body of your tote. Once you have your pieces, place them right sides together and pin along the edges, leaving the top open. Sew down the sides and across the bottom, making sure to reinforce the seams for added durability.

Next, turn the bag right side out and press the seams for a crisp finish. For the handles, turn the fabric strips right sides in, sew along the edges, and then flip them to reveal the neat finished sides. Attach the handles to the bag, securing them with a few rows of stitching to ensure they can carry all your essentials.

Finally, give your tote a final press, and voilà! You have a chic, personalised tote bag that’s perfect for shopping, days out, or to simply showcase your creative flair. Happy sewing!

15 Easy Macramé Projects for the Beginner

If you're eager to dive into the world of macramé, you're in for a treat! This ancient craft, which uses knotting techniques to create intricate designs, is not only relaxing but also incredibly satisfying. Here are 15 easy projects to kick-start your macramé journey:

1. Macramé Plant Hanger: Perfect for adding a bit of greenery to your home, this simple yet beautiful project allows you to suspend your potted plants, giving them an eye-catching display.

2. Wall Hanging: A chic macramé wall hanging can transform any dull wall into a statement piece. Start with basic knots to create patterns that suit your style.

3. Keychain: A fun project to practice your knots, a macramé keychain can be customised to reflect your personality, making your keys easier to find.

4. Bracelet: Craft a stylish macramé bracelet using colourful cords. It's a great way to create personalised gifts for friends and family.

5. Bookmark: Combine function and art with a macramé bookmark, perfect for those who love reading and want to add a unique touch to their books.

6. Bag Charm: Add a bit of flair to your handbag with a charming macramé keychain or bag charm, making your accessories truly one-of-a-kind.

7. Coasters: Craft stylish macramé coasters to protect your surfaces while adding a rustic touch to your coffee table.

8. Curtain Tiebacks: Elevate your home décor by creating macramé tiebacks for curtains, bringing a touch of elegance to your living space.

9. Dream Catcher: Incorporate macramé into a traditional dream catcher, intertwining knots with feathers and beads for a stunning piece that also serves as a keepsake.

10. Napkin Rings: Impress your guests with beautifully knotted macramé napkin rings that can elevate any dining experience.

11. Candle Holder: Create a lovely macramé candle holder using a simple pattern that can enhance your ambience during those cosy evenings.

12. Wall Shelf Decor: Design a macramé shelf to hold your favourite trinkets or plants, adding both style and functionality to your home.

13. Phone Holder: Keep your mobile safe and styled with a macramé phone holder that’s easy to make and incredibly practical.

14. Dreamy Garlands: Make a whimsical macramé garland to adorn your space for special occasions or just to brighten up your everyday life.

15. Macramé Belt: Add a unique touch to your wardrobe with a macramé belt that can easily be adjusted to fit any outfit.

With these beginner-friendly projects, you’ll soon be knotting like a pro and filling your home with your own delightful macramé creations! Grab your cords, find a comfy spot, and let your creativity flow!

Boondoggle keychains are a delightful and tactile craft that can be enjoyed by both beginners and seasoned crafters alike. Using colourful plastic lace cord, you can create eye-catching pieces that not only serve a practical purpose but also showcase your creativity.

To get started, gather your materials: plastic lace cord in various colours, scissors, and a keyring or clip. Begin by cutting two lengths of cord—one should be significantly longer than the other, as this will form the base of your design. The shorter piece can be used as the working cord to create your intricate patterns.

To weave the boondoggle, start by folding the longer piece in half and threading the ends through the keyring. Next, take the shorter piece and position it over the longer one to begin your stitch. There are several styles of boondoggle knots, but the square knot is a popular choice for beginners. Simply alternate your patterns, pulling the cords taut to ensure a neat finish.

Once you've achieved the desired length, finish off your keychain by securing the ends with a knot and trimming any excess cord. Admire your handiwork and perhaps experiment with different colours and patterns to create a whole collection of charming boondoggle keychains!

If you're looking to add a unique touch to your home decor, creating your own clock can be a rewarding endeavour. Here are 25 cool DIY clock ideas that are sure to inspire your creativity. From rustic wooden designs to sleek modern styles, there’s something for everyone.

Consider crafting a wall clock with reclaimed wood for a charming, eco-friendly aesthetic. You could also repurpose an old vinyl record into a funky timepiece that pays homage to your love of music. For a whimsical option, why not create a clock using a collection of vintage spoons arranged in a sunburst pattern?

If you prefer something minimalist, a simple clock face featuring elegant typography can add a contemporary flair to any room. For a fun twist, paint a large canvas with vibrant colours, and attach clock mechanisms for a bold statement piece. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, these 25 cool clock ideas offer a delightful blend of functionality and artistic expression, transforming the way you view time in your space.