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Teacher’s Pet: 19 Incredibly Easy Teacher Appreciation Gifts

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Everyone has that one teacher that we’ll never forget, who inspired us in some way and helped us grow as a person. For me, that was my high school art teacher, who encouraged me to experiment with all kinds of art and to push my creative boundaries. I’ll admit, I am terrible at drawing and art in general, but her encouragement definitely inspired me to push myself creatively and for that, I thank her deeply. Being a teacher is certainly an under appreciated field, given how extremely important their jobs are, so as this school year ends, let your little ones show their teacher just how special they are with this collection of incredibly easy teacher appreciation gifts.

From classroom-inspired gifts to one-of-a-kind crafts that your kids can personalize, there’s a perfect gift for any and every teacher. I’ve made sure to include gifts in a jar and other budget-friendly crafts that go a long way, so that your kids can shower their teachers in awesome gifts without breaking the bank. Your kids will love showing their teacher they love them with this list of fantastic end of year ways to say thank you.

If you have any other great teacher appreciation ideas, please leave a comment below. Thanks for reading and be sure to celebrate your child’s teacher with these wonderful DIY teacher appreciation gifts!

Teacher Appreciation

Teacher’s Pet: 19 Incredibly Easy Teacher Appreciation Gifts

An Apple for the Teacher: Cute Apple Gifts

Tiny Apple Refrigerator Magnets

Fun Fact: Did you know the tradition of giving teachers apples started in Denmark?

Write to It: Pencil-Inspired Gifts

Crayon Vase Gift for Teachers

This DIY craft would look perfect on any teacher’s desk!

Gifts in a Jar and Other DIY Ideas

Teacher Appreciation Day Goodie Jar

A great gift idea with tons of wonderful surprises!

One-of-Kind Teacher Appreciation Gifts

School Rules Homemade Chalkboard

Your kids can show their teacher just how much they rule!

How will your kids’ show their teachers some appreciation this school year? Leave a comment below!

DIY Pet Toys

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I have two puppies. Well, technically not puppies. One is a 13-year old yellow Labrador, Lilo, and the other is a 7-year old half black lab, possibly border collie mix, Maggie. So they’re old, but Lilo still thinks she is the little pup we got so many years ago, even though her body can’t keep up anymore. However, no matter how old she gets, she still loves toys. She honestly makes a toy out of anything. We trained her to get the paper from the driveway, to pick out a pair of socks for my dad (as long as the drawer is open), and any loner socks she gets to play with. My dogs are able to make play time out of any household items. So making homemade pet toys has got to be cheaper than buying name brand items, right?

 

DIY Pet Toys

 

DIY Pet Toys

 

That’s why you need to ditch the store-bought toys and make your own with these DIY dog toys. Just a little bit of fabric or an old water bottle can make the different between a dud or a deal.

Now I may not have too much experience in the cat area, or any experience at all, but I feel like I have a good handle on the DIY cat toys and what is considered “cool” in the cat-world (thanks Youtube). Anything small or dangley that attracts attention for short burst of time. And anything they can scratch. Lordy, there’s a lot of scratching.

 

Crunchy ToyI love this crunchy dog toy. It is just a water bottle sewn into a piece of fabric and stuffed. It’s durable enough to play fetch, while soft enough for your puppy to snuggle at night. If you’re not much of a sewist, you can also put a water bottle in a sock and tie off the end. No matter if you’re upcycling fabric scraps or upcycling socks, your fur-baby will love this homemade toy.

 

 

 

DIY Cat Scratching PostFor cats, from what I have gathered, scratching posts are a ridiculous amount of money, but you don’t want to sacrifice your furniture for your cat’s habits. That’s why this homemade cat scratching post is a great way to recycle your cardboard boxes and save your money. I love the fact that you can make it however high or wide you want it so you can accommodate your living space.

 

 

 

 

Whether you have a canine-companion or a feline-friend, these homemade pet toys are going to be your favorite because of how easy it is to make cheap pet toys.

Check out these other toys…

Dogs

Easy Rope Ball Dog Toy

Recycled Denim Dog Toy

Fleece Tug Rope

Doggy Bed and Blanket Set

Your Pet’s Favorite Toy

No Sew Octopus Ball Doll

Run Rabbit Run Dog Toy

Cats

No Sew DIY Cat Bed

Crocheted Cat Toy

Crochet Cat Bed

Holiday Cat Collar

DIY Cat Toy from thediydiary.com

Catscraper DIY Cat Scratching Post from maisonkuotidien.com

What is something odd that your pet plays with?

Oscars 2014: How to Sew a Red Carpet Dress

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AllFreeSewing.comThe Oscars are a time each year to honor Hollywood’s biggest names for their work, but they’re also the best time to see some of the best (and worst) in fashion walk down the red carpet. The awards themselves are very important, but the fashion choices almost always overshadow the winners. People will share their reactions to the awards, but the conversations will ALWAYS veer towards, “Yeah, and did you see the dress she was wearing?!”

For me, it’s a night where I get to get all dressed up in my Target-chic glitzy outfit and go to my friend’s apartment for her annual Oscar party. Everyone gets red carpet ready, and we have our own little photoshoot before gathering around the TV in time for the actual red carpet. For us, the awards themselves are important, but they do take a backseat to what everyone is wearing and how everyone looks.

Oscar style is always glamorous and indulgent; some celebs choose to go with a long and sleek silhouette while others take advantage of the event to rock something more outrageous and a bit less “safe.” If you’re looking to create your own Oscar-worthy ensemble for your own Oscar party, AllFreeSewing is the place for you! We’ve sought out our more glitzy projects to share with you for some inspiration.

 

Mix and Match

If you aren’t ready to take your look to full-blown Oscar-level and want to look a little more subdued, you can still look stylish and fancy. The best part about these outfit pieces is that you can mix and match them with anything. You can wear the black peplum top with the white lace skirt, and you have a timeless look that works for both an Oscar party and a work outfit. Incorporate these pieces with what you already own for even more styling options!

Sequined Mini Skirt15 Minute Lacy Blazer

Elizabeth Taylor’s Favorite Lace Skirt

Gold Trim Cardi Detail

Enchanting Tulle Skirt 

Ravising Peplum Refashion

Sequined Mini Skirt 

 

Glam Accessories

Don’t forget the accessories! As you’re getting yourself all dolled up, don’t forget a clutch to hold a mirror and your emergency lipstick and the appropriate scarf or wrap to keep you warm this chilly winter. The right accessories can add the proper Oscar glitz to just about any accessory, so don’t be shy!

Purses

DIY Envelope ClutchOn the Go Designer Purse

DIY Fancy Lace Clutch

Lined Sequin Clutch

DIY Envelope Clutch

 

Scarves and Stoles

Faux Fur Collar

Infinity Bow Wrap 

Faux Fur Collar 

How to Sew a Faux Fur Stole

 

 

 

Red Carpet Ready!

Are you ready to go all out with a fabulously fancy dress? These dresses are all fit for a fantastic party. Depending on the mood of the night, choose a sleek and simple long gown, or you can go shorter and tighter to have a dress with a little more party in it.

Tiered Gown

DIY Little Black Dress 

Tiered Gown 

Golden Goddess Gown 

Bachelorette Party Dress

New Year’s Resolution Party Dress 

Draped Maxi Dress 

Putting on the Glitz LBD

Femme Fatale Cocktail Dress 

 

Plus!

Check out these gorgeous dresses and amazing glitter pumps I came across while looking up Oscar inspiration? They all come from Suzannah from Adventures in Dressmaking!

 DIY Christian Louboutin Glitter Pumps Red Skater DressSilk Party Dress

DIY Christian Louboutin Glitter Pumps // Red Skater Dress // Silk Party Dress

Are you more excited for the awards or the fashion of the Oscars?

 

Roll Out the Red Carpet: 10 Frozen-Inspired Crafts

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Have you seen Disney’s latest animated film, Frozen? The Oscar-nominated film tells the story of two sisters attempting to find their place in the world and come into their own. As you might have guessed from the title, it takes place in a land that is experiencing a raging winter, including piles upon piles of snow and freezing temperatures. Kind of like Chicago this year (and Canada every year).

Although this film breaks from a few typical Disney characteristics, it heralds back to the animated musicals that made Disney, well, Disney. One of my favorite songs from the film has to be “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” It’s just too cute! As a bit of movie nut, I felt inspired by the films beautiful winter wonderland animations. From the ice castle to the glistening white snow-topped trees, I had so much “craftspiration” from the film, I just had to share it with you.

While we may not be able to turn our house into literal ice (I’m not so sure we’d like to), we can make a few beautifully frosted and snow-covered crafts to make us feel like we’re in the movie. We’ve got winter wonderland snow globes and frosted luminaries, to a few snowman crafts in honor of one of the film’s most lovable characters, Olaf the Snowman.

Let’s roll out the carpet for some of these Frozen-inspired crafts from AllFreeChristmasCrafts:

Winter wonderland crafts: Frosted Snowflake Luminaries

Stunning Frosted Mason Jar Luminaries
Chic Mason Jar Snow Globes
Winter Wonderland Bottles
Frosted Snowflake Luminaries
Frosted Glass Ball Wreath

 

 

 

Make your own Olaf with these snowman crafts: Super Cute Snowman DIY Wreath

Mini Knit Snowman
Darling Snowman in a Jar
Super Cute Snowman DIY Wreath
Adorable Poufy Snowman
Snow Much Fun Snow People

 

 

 

 

Looking for more “craftspriation”?

Christmas Crafting in No TimeEnter our current giveaway of Christmas Crafting in No Time. This craft book is full of 50 step-by-step projects and inspirational ideas to help you decorate your house for the holidays. You have until February 11th to enter. Don’t miss your chance to win, enter today!

 

 

 

Quilting 101 for Animal Lovers: Animal Print, Modern Quilt Patterns, and Projects for Pets

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One of our favorite sources of inspiration has been shared with designers, quilters, and people all over; animals. Our editors at FaveQuilts have noticed that whether it’s with gorgeous animal print fabric or a cute little quilt pattern for your pet, quilters can’t get enough of animal patterns! We want to help celebrate both the wild and the domestic with some creative and cute quilt patterns that are all animal-inspired in one way or another.

Projects with Animal Print

Quilting fabric is so much fun when it comes to prints. Not only are there patterns than use those classic designs we’re familiar with like the one seen in the Tiny Tiger Pouch, but there are also some beautiful fabrics that include cute little animals that quilters are able to cut and transform into creative designs for kid’s quilt patterns, as well as holiday-themed designs.

 

  1. Tiny Tiger Pouch (shown)
  2. Bedtime Bears Baby Quilt
  3. Cats Around the World Quilt
  4. Chilly Penguin Wall Art
  5. Elephant Applique Cushion
  6. Under the Sea Quilt

Modern Quilt Patterns Inspired by Animals

Even if you only have plain fabric, you can still express your love of animals through your quilt patterns. There are many paper piecing patterns and quilt blocks that use the techniques you’re already familiar with to depict your favorite animals right on your project.

 

 

 

 

  1. Happy Cat Quilt Block (shown)
  2. Bird Love Quilt
  3. Enchanting Peacock Pillow
  4. Giraffe Quilt Block
  5. Howling Wolf Block
  6. Majestic Maple Fox Block
  7. Owl Always Love You Quilt Sampler
  8. Pig in a Blanket Quilt
  9. Silly Shabby Butterflies Quilt

 

Small Animal Quilt Projects

Putting an animal on your quilt isn’t the only way you can make a project featuring your favorite creatures. These small quilt projects serve as organizing ideas, quilted gifts, and just all-around fun ways to make you smile.

 

  1. Kitten in a Box (shown)
  2. Bucket of Fish Game
  3. Charlie the Elephant
  4. Chickadee Pincushions
  5. Stuffed Turtles
  6. Sweet Christmas Birdie Ornament
  7. Winter’s Deer Paper Pieced Block

 

Projects for Pets

Our pets are like members of the family, so why not show them some love with one of these easy quilt patterns? Imagine how much money you’ll save by putting together a scrappy pillow for your puppy or a fun little catnip toy for your cat. They’ll last for years, they’re easy to repair, and they’ll be just as unique as your precious pet.

 

 

  1. Pinwheel Pillow for Puppies
  2. Plaid Puppy’s Dog Bed
  3. Best Blanket for Dogs
  4. Reversible Halloween Dog Coat
  5. Catnip Mice

 

Safari Fabric Bundle

 

If you’re ready for your patterns to get wild with some animal-inspired designs, simply enter to win this Safari Fabric Bundle from Quilting Treasures. You have until November 5th!

What animal do you think is the most inspiring?

 

 

 

 

FaveQuilts Giveaway: Best of Judy Hopkins: 365 Quilt-Block Patterns Perpetual Calendar

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Quilt block patterns are some of the most basic parts of the quilting process, and they’re also some of the most popular. Even if you don’t want to start on a new full quilt pattern, you can make quilt blocks to experiment with new designs, use up your scraps, and expand on your quilting skills. You’ll be able to try a new pattern every day if you have the 365 Quilt-Block Patterns Perpetual Calendar handy. It compiles 365 block patterns from quilting expert Judy Hopkins that will provide you with a fresh idea and helpful instructions on how to create your own 8″ or 14″ quilt block.

365 Quilt-Block Patterns Perpetual Calendar: Best of Judy Hopkins

This calendar isn’t just about showing you a series of gorgeous geometric designs. Every single one of the 365 quilt block patterns included in this calendar also provides you with cutting instructions and measurements that will allow you to make accurate designs, as well as suggested color schemes to bring out the best in each design. You can go through the calendar day-by-day, but if you’re looking for something specific, simply flip to the index to search based on block designs, techniques used, and sizes. You can easily get an idea for a new quilt pattern with some of the popular designs included, or you may find yourself inspired by a particular color scheme. You may even find a few designs you want to mix and match. With 365 quilt blocks, there’s no end to what you can do!

Ready to start planning your next block to start on? The 365 Quilt-Block Patterns Perpetual Calendar can take care of that for you in no time, and you can get your hands on your very own by entering our giveaway! Simply submit your entry by July 30th for your chance to win this wonderful collection of quilt block patterns.

Kids’ Summer Craft: No-Sew Nautical Puppets

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Go Under the Sea with Summer Crafts for Kids!

This post brought to you by Lady Lucas

 

no-sew-nautical

These adorable felt finger puppets are the perfect afternoon craft for summer days. I’ve created a whale and jellyfish for you below, but you could continue the concept into almost any sea creature you can imagine, from a shark to an octopus or even a mermaid!

no-sew-kids-puppets-small

Materials:

Instructions:

Whale Finger Puppet

no-sew-nautical2

1. Fold a piece of bright blue felt in half and use scissors to cut out two identical whale shapes. You can create your own shape or print and cut out the template.

no-sew-nautical3
2. Place fabric glue around the perimeter of one of the whale shapes and leave about an inch of space at the bottom. Carefully place the other whale shape on top so that they match up and press down firmly. You can leave the handle of a paintbrush in the opening of your puppet while it dries to ensure it does not seal shut.

3. When your puppet is dry, draw an eye, mouth, and any other details you wish with a black fabric marker. A tiny pink circle of felt can be glued on for a cheek. Repeat this face on the other side if you wish.

4. Once your puppet dries, have fun playing with him or her, or display it on a bamboo skewer for a great summer decoration!

Jellyfish Finger Puppet

Jellyfish Finger Puppet

1. Fold a piece of bright pink felt in half and use scissors to cut out two identical semi-circle shapes. Use the template if you’d like.

no-sew-nautical5
2. Cut 5 pieces of red ribbon for tentacles. Three pieces should be approximately 10 inches, while the other two should be around 5 inches. Glue these towards the bottom of one of your cut shapes like so:

no-sew-nautical6

3. Place fabric glue around the rounded part of one of jellyfish shapes {the one with the ribbon pieces} leaving the flat bottom part without glue. Carefully place the identical jellyfish on top and firmly press down. You can leave the handle of a paintbrush in the opening of your puppet while it dries to ensure it does not seal shut.

4. Glue two tiny yellow felt circles for eyes and add pupils with a black fabric marker. Use your marker to add a mouth as well.

5. Once your puppet dries, have fun playing with him or her, or display it on a bamboo skewer for a great summer decoration!

no-sew-nautical7

Check out Lady Lucas’ Etsy shop here!

Do you prefer the beach or the pool in hot weather?

 

Celebrate Your Furry Friend On National Love Your Pet Day

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Today is a very important holiday … it’s National Love Your Pet Day! The next time your spot your favorite furry friend, give him or her a little extra squeeze (not too hard, though). Here at FaveCrafts, we love dogs, cats, guinea pigs and even sugar gliders! We love sharing stories about our pets and even passing around photos of our favorite “fur babies.” We know our readers love their own pets, hence why we have an entire pet crafts category of the site.

    

Today, make your pet something that they can wear or use for playtime. Your favorite companion deserves a little TLC, and these projects certainly show how much you care.

Crafts For a Cat:

  1. Snazzy Cat Collar
  2. Kitty Treat Jar
  3. Sock Bed for Kitty


Crafts For a Dog:

  1. Doggy Style Dress
  2. Easy Upcycled Dog Toy
  3. Dog Sweater Crochet Pattern


Crafts For Every Pet:

  1. Pet Food Mat
  2. 3-D Pet Collage
  3. Pet Treat Pail

Do you have a pet? Leave a comment and tell us all about him/her!

AllFreeKnitting Kneedle Pet Organizer Giveaway!

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AllFreeKnitting is giving away one green Kneedle Pet Knitting Needle Organizer to one lucky winner. Built with lightweight and durable foam, this cute fish-shaped organizer is able to hold straight, circular and double pointed knitting needles. Keep all of your smaller crafting supplies in one place with this handy organizer that comes with its own handmade cozy.

 

Enter now for your chance to win!  Contest ends March 15.

 

 

Hi Diddle Dee Dee! DIY Puppet Crafts

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A little wooden puppet skipped his way into the movies on February 23, 1940, when Walt Disney’s animated movie Pinocchio was released in theaters. In celebration of the event, today is Pinocchio Day–the best day for puppet crafts!  There are plenty of puppets you can make at home including hand puppets, finger puppets, and sock puppets.

wormWhen it comes to puppet materials, everyone has their own preferences. Personally I like to use felt because it reminds me of  my favorite puppets, Jim Henson’s Muppets. CutRateCrafts has several puppet kits and plenty of felt and wiggly eyes. And take it from a girl who knows a thing or two about puppets, it’s all in the eyes. Whether you use wiggly eyes, buttons, or felt pieces, a puppet’s look and personality can all be linked back to the placement of those eyes.

 

DIY Puppet Craft Tutorials

Finger puppets are pint-sized and work well for the tiny fingers of kids. Make some bunny finger puppets to give away as gifts or knit Oscar the Grouch’s buddy Smiley the Worm from the show Sesame Street. But if you want to include the kids in making a puppet, have them work on paper bag or sock puppets. Use a sock or paper bag as the creature’s body and attach different craft materials to create the features. It’s the perfect opportunity for them to use their imagination and create something wild.

Fun-Bath-FriendsHand puppets can be made out of tons of different materials. These Bath Friends are crocheted out of yarn. What kid wouldn’t want to take a bath when given the option to take one of these fun toys in with them? Or make stick puppets using foam balls, some paint, and wooden rods.

At the end of the day, finish off your puppet crafts by making an old-fashioned puppet theater. It’s easy to put on a puppet show by having kids hide under a table or behind a couch and popping up their puppet above. If you really want to add some scenery, check out this Medieval Puppet Theater that you can build out of Styrofoam blocks, some paint, and material.

 

Kermit the Frog will always be my favorite puppet. Who’s your all-time favorite puppet character?

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