Ten Stupid Simple Craft Ideas

When November hits, I quickly remember how expensive the next two months are going to be.  Between Christmas presents, donations, food, ornaments, Christmas trees, blah blah blah, it adds up.  And it adds up to a lot.  By the time you get a grasp on your expenses and, like, not having a single moment to yourself on the calendar, those personal touches can fall to the wayside... just a bit.  Unless you have 20% off home decor and gifts on Cartwheel.  Then, and only then, is additional spending necessary.

In no particular order, here are my picks for crafting materials to have around the house during the holidays (and non-holidays) to save you from a bind.

1. Brown Paper Bags 

Create your own door garland with some scissors, tape, and a little imagination.

2. Perel Beads

I like Perel Beads because A. they are super colorful B. They are cheap if you consider how much product you can make and C. The sky's the limit with these suckers - legit secret santa/teacher gifts and totes adorbs gift tags.

3. Popsicle Sticks (various sizes) 

Create some big ass (or small ass) snowflakes by gluing some sticks together.

4.  Kraft Paper + Sharpie Pens

These cheap materials make awesome last minute greeting cards, you know, for that family you forgot about that didn't forget about you.

5.  Mason Jars + Petite China Dishes

This trend has been sticking around, and it won't be leaving anytime soon.  Load up on these bad boys.  Look for coupons at Hobby Lobby and Michaels for deeper discounts.  As far as trinkets go, check out places like Etsy for vintage finds, or your local thrift shop.

6.  Cardstock Paper 

Make no sew paper bunting garland with scissors, string and tape.  If you're feeling extra ambitious; make a fireplace to hang those stockings with care. A hot Toddy or two and maybe some cuddles... just not the struggle kind... is all you need to stay warm on those frigid nights.

7.  Craft Paint + Canvas Paper

Unless you are planning on painting a masterpiece, my advice is to check out brands like Folk Art and Apple Barrel for your painting needs.  I have done plenty of paintings on canvas using these vibrant hues -  for a fraction of the cost of those other super expensive acrylic paint tubes.  A single tube of craft paint will cost you around 92 cents.  And oh, the color options!

Instead of wrapped canvas, opt for canvas paper.  It's frameable, and fits nicely in your favorite gallery frames.

9. Gold Leaf Paint

With a little gold paint and a lot of imagination, you can add shimmer and shine to everything from christmas ornaments to mini figurines to canvas gift bags to black river rocks to terracotta pots to... I'll stop there.

*Recommendation: Liquid Leaf - Apply using dry bristle brush*

10. Felt

Felt has always been a tried and true crafting medium.  You can stitch it, cut it, glue it, paint it, snap it, work it, quick, erase it. Technologic. Technologic.

As far as time goes, all of these crafts took less than one hour leaving plenty of time for all of those other things that fill up your schedule.  The best part is, these crafts and materials are simple enough for you and your family to participate in.  And having three glasses of wine, minimum, will really get those creative juices flowing.  Happy designing, folks and have a splendid New Year!