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15 Recycled Crafts You Didn’t Know You Needed

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As the state of our environment continues to worsen, I’ve started including environmentally-friendly habits into my lifestyle. For example, if I need to be somewhere nearby, I’ll walk instead of drive. Whether you believe it or not, small habits can go a long way. Maybe you can’t save the planet on your own, but switching to a greener lifestyle will definitely contribute to conserving our environment.

Although you have so many possibilities for helping the earth, green crafting is a great way to reduce pollution and waste. One of the biggest contributors to the environment’s current state is landfills. We throw so much garbage away daily that we don’t know what to do with it anymore. Even recyclable materials such as plastic and paper aren’t always recycled. Instead, they’re mixed with all of the other trash.

Recycled Crafts You Didn't Know You Needed

Recycled Crafts You Didn’t Know You Needed

To eliminate this large amount of waste, we should start repurposing recyclable materials. And this 15 Recycled Crafts You Didn’t Know You Needed will help you do that. From toilet paper roll to wine bottle crafts, this list of recycled crafts will provide you with so many environmentally-friendly craft ideas. Instead of throwing your glass or cardboard in the recycling bin, you can create a beautiful craft that you’d never expect. Whether it is a vase, footstool or a planter, these DIY recycled crafts will reduce your daily waste and make your home a little greener. And the best part is that these upcycled crafts aren’t useless! All of these recycled crafts have a practical use that you’ll really appreciate.

  1. Toilet Paper Roll DIY Rose Scented Sachets
  2. Coffee Pot Homemade Terrarium
  3. Recycled DIY Toothpaste Tube Pouch
  4. Wine Cork Bulletin Board
  5. Cardboard and Twine DIY Vase
  6. Recycled Jeans Tin Can Planters
  7. Upcycled Backpack Rain Covers from Umbrella
  8. Wine Cork Planter Magnets
  9. Recycled Plarn Tote bag
  10. Chicken Wire Chandelier
  11. Denim Needle Case
  12. Recycled Wine Crate Footstool DIY Home Decor
  13. How to Make a Washboard
  14. DIY Newspaper Mirror Frame
  15. Radiant Ribbon DIY Candles

What are some of your favorite upcycled crafts? Let us know in the comments below!

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Shore Thing Crochet Beach Cover Up Pattern

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I absolutely love the summer, and it’s not because my birthday is in August. (On the 16th for anyone who’d really like to get me a present, wink wink). But I love summer because you spend those super warm and sunny days at the beach.

You walk barefoot on the scorching hot sand. You wear more sunscreen than you’ve ever had in your entire life. And when you’re sitting in the passenger’s seat on the drive back, you fall asleep with your head slumped against the window. A beach day is one of the best days of the summer. And I especially enjoy that I can wear a cute crochet beach cover-up.

When people mentioned crochet around me, I’d always thought that crocheting was for the wintertime, like crochet scarves and sweaters. But I’ve learned that you can create so many staple pieces with crochet, including crochet beach cover-ups. And if you’re someone who likes to wear a top or a dress over your swimsuit, then you’ll absolutely love this Shore Thing Crochet Beach Cover Up Pattern. So, next time that you’re at the beach, wear this lovely crochet beach cover-up pattern or, better yet, try creating some crochet crafts while you’re at the beach!

Shore Thing Crochet Beach Cover Up Pattern

 

Shore Thing Crochet Beach Cover Up Pattern

Shore Thing Crochet Beach Cover Up Pattern

Materials: 

  • 2 balls of Red Heart It’s A Wrap Yarn in Western
  • 3.25 mm (US D-3) crochet hook
  • Yarn needle

Gauge: 5 pattern repeats =7 in [18 cm]; 12 rows = 4 in [10 cm] in shell pattern of lower section. 20 sts = 4 in [10 cm] in half double crochet (hdc), after blocking.

Finished size: 

  • To Fit Bust: 30-34 (36-42, 44-50, 52- 58)” [76-86.5 (91.5-106.5, 112-127, 132-147.5) cm].
  • Finished Bust/Hip: 42 (48, 56, 65)” [106.5 (122, 142, 165) cm], after blocking.
  • Finished Length: 36 (37, 38, 39)” [91.5 (94, 96.5, 99) cm].

Abbreviations: 

  • ch = chain
  • dc = double crochet
  • hdc =half double crochet
  • sc = single crochet
  • st(s) = stitch(es)
  • () = work directions in parentheses into same st.
  • [ ] = work directions in brackets the number of times specified.
  • * = repeat whatever follows the * as indicated.

Special Stitches:

  • dc2tog (double crochet 2 stitches together) = [Yarn over, insert hook in next stitch, yarn over and pull up loop, yarn over, draw through 2 loops] 2 times, yarn over, draw through all 3 loops on hook.
  • Fdc (foundation double crochet – This technique creates a foundation chain and a row of double crochet stitches in one) =
  • First st: Place a slip knot on hook, ch 3, yarn over, insert hook in 3rd ch from hook and draw up a loop, yarn over, draw through 1 loop on hook (the “chain”), [yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook] twice (the “double crochet”).
  • Remaining sts: *Yarn over, insert hook in “chain” of previous stitch and draw up a loop, yarn over, draw through 1 loop on hook (the “chain”), [yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook] twice (the “double crochet”); repeat from * for desired number of stitches.
  • hdc2tog (half double crochet 2 stitches together) = [Yarn over, insert hook in next stitch, yarn over and pull up loop] 2 times, yarn over and draw through all 5 loops on hook.
  • shell = (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) in indicated stitch.
  • 2-dc Cl (2 double crochet cluster) = Yarn over, insert hook in indicated stitch or space and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook (2 loops remain on hook); yarn over, insert hook in same stitch or space and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook; yarn over and draw through all 3 loops on hook.

Pattern Instructions: 

BACK
Fdc 121 (137, 161, 185)

Lower Shell Pattern Section

Row 1 (wrong side): Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, dc in next st and each st across.
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc in first st, *ch 2, skip next 3 sts, shell in next st, ch 2, skip next 3 sts, sc in next st; repeat from * across working the last sc in top beginning ch-3—15 (17, 20, 23) shells.
Row 3:Ch 3, turn, dc in first st (beginning ch-3 and first dc count as 2-dc Cl), ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell, *ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc, ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell; repeat from * to last sc, ch 3, 2-dc Cl in last sc—16 (18, 21, 24) clusters.
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc in first st, *ch 2, shell in next sc, ch 2, sc in next cluster; repeat from * across working the last sc in top of beginning ch-3.
Rows 5–18 (16, 12, 10): Repeat Rows 3 and 4 for 7 (6, 4, 3) more times. Decrease in Shell Pattern. 
Row 1:Ch 3, turn, dc in first st (beginning ch-3 and first dc count as 2-dc Cl), ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell, *ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc, ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell; repeat from * across working last sc in last ch-1 space; leave remaining sts unworked—15 (17, 20, 23) clusters.
Row 2: Ch 5, turn, sc in next cluster, *ch 2, shell in next sc, ch 2, sc in next cluster; repeat from * across working the last sc in top of beginning ch-3—14 (16, 19, 21) shells.
Rows 3–28 (32, 38, 44): Repeat Rows 1 and 2 for 13 (15, 18, 21) more times—1 shell.
Row 29 (33, 39, 45): Ch 3, turn, dc in first st (beginning ch-3 and first dc count as 2-dc Cl), ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of shell; leave remaining sts unworked—1 cluster.
Row 30 (34, 40, 46): Ch 5, turn, sc in top of beginning ch-3. Do not fasten off.

Half Double Crochet Bias Section

Row 1 (wrong side): Ch 2 (does not count as a st here and throughout), turn, work 121 (139, 163, 187) hdc evenly spaced along sloped edge of shell section.
Row 2: Ch 2, turn, hdc in first st, hdc2tog, hdc in each st to last 2 sts, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in last st.
Row 3: Ch 2, turn, hdc in first st, 2 hdc in next st, hdc in each st to last 3 sts, hdc2tog, hdc in last st.
Repeat Rows 2 and 3 until piece measures about 36 (37, 38, 39)” [91.5 (94, 96.5, 99) cm] from beginning, end by working a wrong side row (Row 3).

Top Shell Pattern Section

Row 1 (right side): Ch 1, turn, sc in first st, *ch 2, skip next 2 sts, shell in next st, ch 2, skip next 2 sts, sc in next st; repeat from * across—20 (23, 27, 31) shells
Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, sc in ch-1 space of next shell, *ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc, ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell; repeat from * to last sc, dc in last sc—19 (22, 26, 30) clusters.
Row 3: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, 2 dc in first sc, ch 2, sc in next cluster, *ch 2, shell in next sc, ch 2, sc in next cluster; repeat from * to last sc, ch 2, 2 dc in last sc, dc in top of beginning ch-3—18 (21, 25, 29) shells.
Row 4: Ch 3 (counts as hdc, ch 1), turn, 3-dc Cl in next sc, *ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell, ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc; repeat from * to last 3 dc, ch 1, hdc in top of beginning ch-3—19 (22, 26, 30) clusters.
Row 5: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), turn, sc in next cluster, *ch 2, shell in next sc, ch 2, sc in next cluster; repeat from * to beginning ch-3 space, hdc in beginning ch-3 space—18 (21, 25, 29) shells.
Row 6: Ch 4 (counts as dc, ch 1), turn, sc in ch-1 space of next shell, *ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc, ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell; repeat from * to last sc, ch 1, skip last sc, dc in beginning ch-2 spac —17 (20, 24, 28) clusters.
Row 7: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, 3 dc in next sc, *ch 2, sc in next cluster, ch 2, shell in next sc; repeat from * to last sc, 3 dc in last sc, dc in beginning ch-4 space—16 (19, 23, 27) shells.
Row 8: Ch 2, turn, sc in next dc (beginning ch-2 and following sc count as hdc2tog), ch 1, 3-dc Cl in next sc, *ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell, ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc; repeat from * to last 4 dc, ch 1, skip next dc, hdc2tog, leave beginning ch-3 unworked—17 (20, 24, 28) clusters.
Row 9: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, sc in next cluster, *ch 2, shell in next sc, ch 2, sc in next cluster; repeat from * to last sc. dc in last sc—16 (19, 23, 27) shells.
Row 10: Ch 3, turn, dc in next sc (beginning ch-3 and following dc count as dc2tog), ch 2, sc in ch-1 space of next shell, *ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc, ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell; repeat from * to last sc, ch 2, dc2tog (worked over last sc and beginning ch-3 space)—15 (18, 22, 26) clusters.
Row 11: Ch 1, turn, sc in first st, shell in next sc, *ch 2, sc in next cluster, ch 2, shell in next sc; repeat from * to beginning ch-3, sc in top of beginning ch-3—16 (19, 23, 27) shells.
Row 12: Turn, slip st in next 2 dc, ch 1, sc in ch-1 space of same shell, *ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc, ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell; repeat from * to beginning ch-2; leave remaining sts unworked—15 (18, 22, 26) clusters.
Row 13: Ch 4 (counts as ch 1, dc), turn, sc in next cluster, *ch 2, shell in next sc, ch 2, sc in next cluster; repeat from * to last sc, ch 1, dc in last sc—14 (17, 21, 25) shells.
Row 14: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), turn, 3-dc Cl in next sc, *ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell, ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc; repeat from * to beginning ch-4 space, hdc in beginning ch-4 space—15 (18, 22, 26) clusters.
Row 15: Ch 1, turn, sc in first cluster, *ch 2, shell in next sc, ch 2, sc in next cluster; repeat from * across; leave beginning ch-2 unworked—14 (17, 21, 25) shells.
Row 16: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), turn, sc in ch-1 space of next shell, *ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc, ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell; repeat from * across, hdc in last dc of same shell; leave remaining sts unworked—15 (18, 22, 26) clusters.
Row 17: Ch 3, turn, dc in next sc (beginning ch-3 and following dc count as dc2tog), ch 2, sc in next cluster, *ch 2, shell in next sc, ch 2, sc in next cluster; repeat from * to last sc, ch 2, dc2tog (worked over last sc and beginning ch-2 space)—14 (17, 21, 25) shells.
Row 18: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), turn, 3-dc Cl in next sc, *ch 3, sc in ch-1 space of next shell, ch 3, 3-dc Cl in next sc; repeat from * to last 2 dc, hdc in top of beginning ch-3—15 (18, 22, 26) clusters.
Row 19: Ch 1, turn, sc in first cluster, *ch 2, shell in next sc, ch 2, sc in next cluster; repeat from * across—14 (17, 21, 25) shells.
Rows 20–55 (55, 73, 91): Repeat Rows 2–19 for 2 (2, 3, 4) more times—2 (5, 3, 1) shells.
Beginning with Row 2, work until no more shells or clusters remain in last row.
Do not fasten off.

Top Edging

Row 1: Ch 1, working in ends of rows, work 95 (112, 130, 148) sc evenly spaced along top edge.
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across.
Row 3: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, dc in next 14 (17, 20, 23) sts, hdc in each st to last 15 (18, 21, 24) sts, dc in last 15 (18, 21, 24) sts.
Row 4: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, dc in next 14 (17, 20, 23) sts, slip st in each st to last 15 (18, 21, 24) sts, dc in last 15 (18, 21, 24) sts.
Fasten off.

FRONT
Make same as back.

FINISHING
Block pieces to schematic measurements, straightening edges to ensure that each piece is rectangular.

If you like this crochet beach cover-up pattern, check out these 22 Summer Crochet Patterns!

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Best Blogger Contest 2018 Winners!

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Every year after our Networking Event at Creativation, FaveCrafts hosts our Best Blogger Contest! This contest invites guests to use products from our sponsors to make a stunning new craft. Our team then selects twenty finalists, and the most popular projects are voted on by readers like you!

Best Blogger Contest 2018

This year, we had some of the most stunning entries. It was so hard for us to select 20 finalists, and voters certainly had a selection of beautiful projects to choose from. Now, voting is over and the results are in! Check out our top projects from Creativation 2018.

Best Blogger Contest 2018 Winners!

10 Runners Up

Wooden Rooster Gift Box

By: Carissa Bonham from creativegreenliving.com

Wooden Rooster Gift Box

Pistachio Clay Necklace

By: Gloria Uhler from domestic-divaonline.com

Pistachio Clay Necklace

Shabby to Fabulous Tray Redux

By: Susan Brown from sbartist.com

Shabby to Fabulous Tray Redux

Yarn Wrapped Chicks

By: Erin Reed from scraps-of-reflections.blogspot.com

Yarn Wrapped Chicks

Her Glitterness

By: Candy Rosenberg from AVintageGirl.com

Her Glitterness

The Craft Fairy

By: Rita Barakat from ritabarakat.com

The Craft Fairy

 

Trio of Bright and Sweet Note Cards

By: Kathy Jo Wood from daisysanddaffodils.blogspot.ca

Trio of Bright and Sweet Note Cards

DIY Hello Chalkboard Sign

By: Margie Higuchi from margieh.blogspot.com

DIY Hello Chalkboard Sign

Chalked Paint Hutch and Buffet

By: Marjolaine Walker from marjolainewalker.com

Chalked Paint Hutch and Buffet

Modern End Table from Wedding Keepsakes

By: Betsy Burnett from aimhappy.blogspot.com

Modern End Table from Wedding Keepsakes

Third Place

Easy DIY Sticky Notepad Holders

By: Nadine Carlier from myscrapnstuff.blogspot.com

Easy DIY Sticky Notepad Holders

Second Place

Spring Foliage Inspired Altered Dress Form

By: Mitsyana Wright from upontippytoes.com

Spring Foliage Inspired Altered Dress Form

First Place

Purrfectly Purple Patons Crochet Kitty

By: Sarah Zimmerman from repeatcrafterme.com

Purrfectly Purple Patons Crochet Kitty

A big congratulations to all of our winners!!

Want to see all of the gorgeous projects our bloggers and designers submitted? Browse this list from Creativation 2018.

Wondering what else was trending? Check out this post of Trending Crafts from Creativation 2018.

What trending new project are you dying to make?

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National Craft Month 2018: a new tutorial every day in March!

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National Craft Month 2018 is here! Every year, we celebrate the craftiest month of the year by releasing a new craft project each day in March. These crafts cover a wide range of hobbies, from crochet and knitting to recycled crafts, paper crafts, and more!

National Craft Month 2018

National Craft Month 2018

Visit our hub page on FaveCrafts.com to get a sneak preview of all the beautiful projects we’re featuring this year! Bookmark this National Craft Month page to make sure you don’t miss each new project!

Today, our friends at Therm O Web have a darling new bobbin necklace tutorial they’re sharing:

No-Sew Bobbin DIY Necklace Pendant

This darling bobbin necklace is such an easy jewelry making project, and you can customize the different bobbins with various threads and fabric scraps to create unique designs each time. The star charm is an elegant finishing touch. Long necklaces make beautiful accessories for so many outfits, and this is a particularly crafty one!

Check back tomorrow to see our next project, an Interwoven Cabled Chic Shawl crochet pattern from Red Heart:

Interwoven Cabled Chic Shawl

Interwoven Cabled Chic Shawl

This gorgeous shawl features stacked double crochet stitches and an amazing cable border. Cables aren’t just for knitting! The height of this shawl makes it ideal for wrapping so many ways for a cozy yet chic accessory.

Get a sneak peek of so many more projects to come!

More National Craft Month Projects

National Craft Month Preview

Plus, we’re giving away a grand prize giveaway! The National Craft Month Extravagant Grand Prize Giveaway lasts throughout the entire month of March, and there are so many ways to win! Enter to win on the giveaway page, and you can get BONUS giveaways by commenting on the different craft projects! Make sure you use the hashtag #NationalCraftMonth2018 to qualify for the bonus entry.

National Craft Month Extravagant Grand Prize Giveaway

National Craft Month Grand Prize

What is a new craft you’d like to try? Maybe it’s something you’ve always wanted to learn but haven’t done yet! Let us know in the comments.

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Trending Crafts from Creativation 2018

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Every year we adore seeing new craft trends at the Creativation show. It’s wonderful to get an insider’s look at what new projects and motifs are up and coming! We love sharing what’s new with our readers. Here are some of the popular trending crafts from Creativation 2018.

Trending Crafts

Birds of Paradise, especially Toucans

Toucans and other tropical birds were everywhere at Creativation this year! There was a cute toucan make and take, and I saw toucan paper, fabric, and other crafts with toucans at the show.

Trending crafts: Birds of Paradise

Flamingos and Pineapples

Speaking of birds of paradise, flamingos are still hip. In fact, flamingo crafts were everywhere at the show! If you’re pairing flamingos and pineapples, you’re especially on trend.

Trending crafts: Flamingos and Pineapples

Flamingo Crafts:

Letterboards

See that beautiful “how about them pineapples” photo above? That text is written on a letterboard, and letterboards were everywhere.

Trending: Letterboard

Cacti

At first we thought we were seeing so many cacti because Creativation is held in Arizona, but as it turns out, the humble cactus is trending. Perhaps cactus is the new succulent?

Trending Decor: Cactus Crafts

Cactus Crafts:

Hygge Crafts

Hygge became hip in 2016 and it continues to be popular! Red Heart released a new line of hygge yarns, and comfy and cozy products were abundant.

Hygge Crafts

Check out our collection of 27 Hygge Crafts.

Pom Poms

It’s true: pom poms are here to stay. There was plenty of pom pom rick rack, ribbon, and other pom pom details on knit and crocheted projects. The Craft Yarn Council made pom poms at their booth this year, too.Trending: Pom Poms

Explore our eBook of pom pom and tassel ideas: 5 Easy Tassel Crafts and DIY Pom Pom Projects.

Last but not least…

Llamas

Llamas abounded at the show this year! They were on cards, printed on paper, embroidered for home decor, and sewn into cute little plushies.

I made a llama! #makeandtake #creativation2018 #fuijifilmafci2018

A post shared by FaveCrafts (@favecrafts) on

Llama Crafts:

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What trend are you most excited about for 2018?

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7 Craft Trends for 2018

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Craft trends are always fantastic to keep in mind when searching for a thrilling new project to make. Here you can get a head start on some of the hottest crafts for 2018! Resources like Pinterest, Google, The Columbian, and other sites have posted top searches from 2017 to predict 2018’s trends. Check out some of our favorite predictions below!

Craft Trends 2018

Sheer Socks

Craft Trends 2018

These stunning beauties can take a formal outfit to the next level. Perfect for winter weddings and dressy dinners.

DIY Tulle Socks by Tringa Osmani from diyclothes.net

Embellished Shoes

DIY Glitter Loafer Shoes Refashion

Whether it’s glitter, tassles, rhinestones, paint, tie dye, or really anything, customizing your shoes will be a hot craft in 2018.

DIY Glitter Loafer Shoes Refashion by Miki  from sfmgs.co.uk

Paracord

Paracord Water Bottle Holder DIY

Paracord has been popular for a while now, but it’s still rising in popularity even into 2018! Get inspired with a variety of paracord project ideas.

Paracord Water Bottle Holder DIY by Ashley Griffith from hellonatureblog.com

Macrame

Macrame 3-Pot Plant Holder

By the way, if you love paracord projects, you’ll love macrame. If friendship bracelets were your jam as a child, macrame is practically the adult version! Tie knots and make gorgeous projects.

Macrame 3-Pot Plant Holder by Wendy Robbins from myfrenchtwist.com

Giant Knitting

Extra Chunky Gratitude Blanket

Giant knit blankets, scarves, and other accessories with jumbo yarn are rising in popularity! You can knit quickly and make a beautifully textured project when it’s giant.

Extra Chunky Gratitude Blanket by yarnspirations.com

Statement Earrings

Gilded Paper Dangle Earrings

From giant hoop earrings to oversized geometric shapes, oversized earrings are back on trend.

Gilded Paper Dangle Earrings by Ann Martin from allthingspaper.net

Berets and Newsboy Caps

Crochet Newsboy Hat Pattern

Add a bit of a brim and classic style, and you’ll be wearing a hat that’s ultra trendy for 2018.

Crochet Newsboy Hat Pattern by Sharon Mann for redheart.com

Never miss a hot new project! Bookmark our most recent articles list to see new projects added every day.

Wondering what you missed last year? Check out our roundup of Creativation Craft Trends for 2017.

What trends are you excited about for 2018?

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Happy Birthday to You! Card Make n’ Take with Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L

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Here at Prime Publishing, we love it when we get to try new projects with some of the brands we work with! Last week, our friends from Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L came by our Northbrook, IL office to teach us how to make a darling birthday card.

Happy Birthday to You Photo Corners Card

Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L likes to promote “wearing adhesive on the outside”, which is showcased beautifully in this birthday card with the photo corners! Several of our editors signed up to make this fun card.

Editors hard at work putting together their cards!

Media Director Beth Pingry showed us how to use their E-Z Runner® Grand to adhere the layers of paper. We also used 3D foam adhesive between some layers to give the card more dimension.

Did you know it’s easier to place all the photo corners on the card before pressing it down? For some reason I thought positioning the paper first would be better, but not so! It’s much easier to get the photo corners in place before pressing it down.

Margie and Beth trimmed the photo corners down ahead of time for us, which made them easier to work with! They come packaged on a larger sheet.

Aren’t those foil shapes darling? Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L sells foil that works with their adhesive shapes for an easy and pretty embellishment.

Here’s what some of our editors had to say:

“I was amazed how quick and easy the project was! When I saw what we would be making, I thought it looked so beautiful and complex that it would take at least an hour – but the whole project only took 30 minutes! The photo corners are so fun to work with, and I love the vintage touch that they gave to the final card.”- Chelsea Scarnegie, AllFreeHolidayCrafts.com Editor

“I’ve done a decent amount of scrapbooking, and these were my favorite photo corners. I loved how the back portion extended out an extra long distance, providing more stability for the paper. And the ability to make cards that were three-dimensional was so much fun—it was like something out of the pretty card section at a store.” – Jessica Thelander, 103 Recipe Cookbooks Editor

“I really enjoyed using the products from Scrapbook Adhesives to create a beautiful birthday card. Specifically, the photo corners we used made the design pop and provided a fun retro vibe. I also loved using different layering techniques and adhesives to add dimension to the card. I haven’t decided who will be the lucky recipient of the card, but I’m sure he or she will be very impressed!” – Kathryn Abrams, AllFreeKnitting.com Editor

“I really enjoyed how easy making this particular card was! You could easily make a lot for say, Christmas, in no time at all. I thought the creative possibilities with the photo corners (especially when they showed us the other colors they came in) were amazing!” – Jamie Garcia, RecipeLion.com Editor

“I really liked the card that we made. It was easy to construct, and the finished product was lovely. I was also impressed by how many different ways you can use the photo corners. I never would have guessed how versatile they are!” – Kristin Anderson, TheWineBuyingGuide.com Editor

“I really enjoyed the make and take with 3L! The photo corners were easy to use and added a lot of character. I especially liked the foil accent – it was so simple but added sparkle without creating a mess like glitter sometimes does. I’m going to give this card to my mom for her birthday!” Natalie Taylor, AllFreeCasseroleRecipes.com Editor

Check out another finished product on the FaveCrafts Instagram!

 

Find more projects from Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L on FaveCrafts.

Tell us: have you used photo corners in a unique way like this? What did you make?

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6 Ways to Donate Your Handcrafts to Kids in Need Around the World through OCC

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Cheryl from Simply Shoeboxes is guest posting with us today to share how you can make a difference this holiday season with Operation Christmas Child.
Operation Christmas Child

In 1993 Samaritan’s Purse was asked if they could provide shoeboxes* with gifts and necessities to the children of war torn Bosnia.  Across the Southeastern United States they collected 28,000 shoebox gifts.  Since that time Operation Christmas Child (OCC) has grown to have collections not only in the U.S., but also in Canada, the U.K., Australia, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Finland, Spain, New Zealand and Japan.  They have delivered over 146 million shoeboxes in 160 countries.  Each shoebox is packed by an individual, family or group hosting a packing party.

Zambia Shoebox

We sent two shoeboxes in 1993, one from each of my young daughters; and since that first year it has become a yearly event in our family.  We are so hooked on shoebox packing that my daughter, Sarah, and I write a blog dedicated to our journey called Simply Shoeboxes.  We like to include handcrafted items in our boxes which make them more personal.  Since I love crafting and I love kids, it is a perfect match of two passions.  I wanted to share with FaveCrafts readers how you, too, can use your love of crafting to help kids in crisis around the world.

OCC Shoeboxes Delivered by Wagon in Madagascar

OCC collects shoeboxes each year the week before Thanksgiving.  This year’s goal is 9.5 million shoeboxes for the US and 12 million worldwide.  Many boxes arrive at the processing center with few items inside or items that are not allowed and need removed (candy, toothpaste, breakables, war related, liquids).  This leaves gaps in the boxes which volunteers fill with items donated for this purpose. These extra gifts are called “fillers.”  This is where crafters can step in and help fill that need.

There are six ways to donate crafts to the Operation Christmas Child shoebox packing efforts.  The following is based on donations in the US.  If you are in another country check with your country’s guidelines as they may differ in some ways.

Teddy Bear Shoebox for Operation Christmas Child

Six Ways to Donate Your Handcrafts to Kids in Need Around the World thru OCC

  1. Pack a Shoebox

You can pack your own shoebox gift and include your handcrafted items.  Choose an average sized shoebox and include such things as toys, hygiene items, clothes and school supplies (many children around the world can’t go to school because the parents can’t afford school supplies).  Hobby Lobby stores and local churches often have the OCC shoeboxes available for free.  You can find out all the information on the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox website.   Find a local drop off location open during national collection week thru the OCC link above–there are over 5000 nationwide.

  1. Find a Shoebox Packer

If you don’t want to pack a shoebox, find someone who does pack and offer to donate handcrafted items to their packing effort.  Any packer would be thrilled for donations.  We have two ladies from opposite ends of the country who send us items to help us pack more boxes and we greatly appreciate it.  If you don’t know anyone personally who packs, call local churches or stop by our Simply Shoeboxes Facebook page and leave a comment that you are looking for a local person to donate to.  Or if you would like to ship your handcrafted items to someone who packs, we can also help you find someone thru our page.

OCC Packing Party for Kids

  1. Find a Packing Party

Operation Christmas Child shoebox packing parties are held around the country.  Some are for packing a few dozen up to one in PA that packs over 25,000.  This year we are hosting two for the kids at church–one for 100 shoeboxes and the other for 200.  You can imagine the number of items needed for these.  As mentioned above, check with local churches or our Facebook page to find one near you or to ship your items to.

  1. Drop Off at a Collection Center

The week before Thanksgiving each year there are thousands of OCC collection centers at which to drop off your shoeboxes.  They also take boxes of filler items.  Pack your handcrafted items in a box (NOT a shoebox) and mark “fillers” on the outside and drop them off.  You can find a location near you thru this link:  Operation Christmas Child shoebox drop off location (these are only listed during the late fall).

OCC Shoeboxes Stacked to Donate

  1. Drop off at an OCC Processing Center

Each year thousands of volunteers check each shoebox to be sure there are no items on the “do not send” list.  Operation Christmas Child has processing centers open for several weeks after collection week in Baltimore, MD, Charlotte, NC, Boone, NC, Atlanta, GA, Dallas, TX, Minneapolis, MN, Denver, CO and Orange County, CA.  Fillers can be packed in boxes marked “fillers” and dropped off at one of these.  You can contact Operation Christmas Child to find out the location and hours of operation, or call (828) 262-1980.

We have a guest post on our blog by an OCC regional director if you would like to see what happens in A Day at the OCC Processing Center.

  1. Mail to Charlotte Offices Year Round

A seamstress asked on the Operation Christmas Child Facebook page what she could do to help.  They told her she could donate handcrafted items anytime of the year by mailing them to:

Operation Christmas Child
Attn:  Seth Brewer
7100 Forest Point Blvd.
Charlotte, NC   28217

Operation Christmas Child also accepts fillers from local businesses and large manufacturers.  You can read more about OCC’s request for Gift-in-Kind on their website:  Operation Christmas Child Gift-in-Kind Opportunities.

Fat Quarter Library Bag Winnie the Pooh

Guidelines for Craft Donations as Fillers for OCC Shoeboxes

Operation Christmas Child divides the shoeboxes into six groups:  2 to 4 year old girls, 2 to 4 year old boys, 5 to 9 year old girls, 5 to 9 year old boys, 10 to 14 year old girls, and 10 to 14 year old boys.  Any item appropriate for a child in any of these groups can be donated.  Including but not limited to:

  • Clothing (no camouflage fabrics)
  • Dolls
  • Stuffies
  • Games
  • Tote Bags
  • Small Blankets
  • Hats, Scarves & Mittens
  • Aprons

Grandma Sally’s Bitty Blanket

I have shared tutorials for many of these on our blog here:  Crafting for Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes Index.  Some of my favorites are:

Some of the crafts on FaveCrafts that would be perfect for shoeboxes are:

And these from AllFreeSewing would also be great:

Fiji OCC Shoebox Distribution

Remember it needs to be small enough to fit in an average sized shoebox with other gifts.  I advise people to use the size of a quart mayonnaise jar as a guide.  If the item when folded, rolled or ready for packing is not much larger than that it should fit fine.

Crafters have the opportunity to craft what they choose and to craft as much as they would like.  There are groups who knit hundreds of sweaters yearly, a retired gentleman who makes hundreds of wooden cars, a 100 year old gal who sews dresses and thousands of crafters across the globe crafting all kinds handcrafts for shoeboxes.  It is also a great opportunity to gets kids crafting for kids.

Shoebox Crafting Communities

So if you love crafting and are looking for an outlet for your crafts that can make a difference in the life a child, look into donating thru Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes.  And if you like communities, here are some Facebook pages for OCC shoebox packers and crafters:

Carpenter Mission Zambia Shoebox Distribution 2016

Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Distributions

OCC works with local churches and other agencies within the receiving countries to distribute the shoeboxes.  If you would like to learn more about the distributions or see more images, we have three guest posts on our blog from ladies who have been involved in distributions.  You can find them here:  Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Distribution Stories.

Thank you to Jennifer Carpenter for this image of the Zambia OCC shoebox distribution and the smiling girl at the top.  All other shoebox distribution images courtesy of Operation Christmas Child.

Questions about Operation Christmas Child

If you have any questions I would be happy to answer them; and if I don’t know the answer, I’ll do my best to find it.  You can reach me at thesimplyblogs @ gmail[dot]com.

Samaritan Purse Gift Catalog

Samaritan’s Purse

Samaritan’s Purse is much larger than Operation Christmas Child.  They are an international relief agency that helps after natural disasters here in the US and around the globe.  They also have dozens of other relief efforts helping children, women, families and communities with medical, farming, schooling, clean water and much more.  Check out their Christmas Catalog for a quick overview of the types of things they do.

Life Saver Snowman Set

Share Your Craft Images

And finally, if you craft items to donate thru Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes I’d love to see them.  Stop by our Simply Shoeboxes Facebook page and post them.

*Please note:  Operation Christmas Child and packers around the world write shoe boxes as one word:  shoeboxes.   For consistency, this article includes that spelling.

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New Ways to Share and Save on Prime Publishing LLC Sites

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The editors of the Prime Publishing websites are excited to announce the launch of our brand new social sharing feature on our sites. Now it is even easier to pin, share, and save your favorite projects, recipes, and pages.

Sharing Your Favorite Links and Articles on Social Media

At the bottom of every single link, you will see this brand new box! All you need to do to share these links on your favorite social network is click the corresponding button.

If you’re a fan of StumbleUpon, Google+, and Reddit, you’ll find those buttons if you click the “more” button.

My Projects/Patterns/Recipe Box Changes

If you’re looking for these features on individual pages, never fear! They’re still there.

Saving is as simple as clicking the “+ Save button” shown below.

If you would like to add Notes to a project, just click the little notepad button.

 

Printing or emailing these projects, patterns, and recipes is as simple as clicking the little email or printer buttons.

We’re so excited to launch this newly updated feature and hope that our readers find the streamlined design and look easier to use. If you have any issues, feel free to reach out to our Customer Service Team and they will assist you. 🙂

 

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7 Absurdly Easy Afghans for Beginners

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So you’ve just learned to crochet or knit. That’s fantastic! Great beginner patterns include knit or crocheted dishcloths and scarves. Once you’ve mastered some of these basic patterns, it’s time to graduate to afghans!

7 Absurdly Easy Afghans for Beginners

Beginner Knit Afghan Patterns

Homespun Country Cousins Knit Baby Blanket

Homespun Country Cousins Knit Baby Blanket, by the designers from Lion Brand Yarn

Okay, so I recently unearthed the Homespun Country Cousins Knit Baby Blanket pattern on FaveCrafts and I love it so much! It is probably the easiest knit afghan pattern we have. Whip up squares of garter stitch and seam the squares together with a contrasting yarn for that country look. You can make this blanket bigger by just working up more squares, too!

Chunky Funky One Day Blanket

Chunky Funky One Day Blanket, by Lynn Spencer from nourishandnestle.com

This Chunky Funky One Day Blanket features a basic stockinette stitch. Beginner knitters should be reasonably comfortable with this stitch because this pattern features oversized needles and yarn to complete it. The results are so worth it!

Easy Chunky Knit Blanket

Easy Chunky Knit Blanket, by the designers of Bernat Yarns

This pattern will make you pay attention, but it’s still so easy for beginners! Get the effect of those unique textured bars with this Easy Chunky Knit Blanket pattern. It looks great with a variegated yarn or a solid! A solid will help draw attention to the texture even more.

Find more of our favorite knit afghans in our collection of 33 Free Knit Afghan Patterns.

Beginner Crochet Afghan Patterns

Under 6 Hours Crochet Throw Pattern

Under 6 Hours Crochet Throw Pattern, by the designers of Lion Brand Yarn

This fast pattern is wildly easy. The Under 6 Hours Crochet Throw Pattern features the V stitch—one of my favorite beginner stitches ever!—and you hold three strands of yarn together so it works up ultra quickly.

Red Crochet Afghan

Red Crochet Afghan, by the designers of Bernat

The name says it all. This Red Crochet Afghan just has a few pattern steps that repeat. The combinations of chain stitches, single, and double crochets give this pattern a lovely texture.

If you’re looking for a new throw, explore your options! Check out our collection of 21 Gorgeous Free Crochet Throw Patterns.

Stashbuster Granny Stripe Afghan

Stashbuster Granny Stripe Afghan, by Amy Ramnarine from thestitchinmommy.com

Master the basic granny stitch, which is essentially clusters of double crochet, and you can complete this Stashbuster Granny Stripe Afghan pattern. Some very easy color changing along with a fundamental stitch are all you need to know.

Colourful Granny Rainbow Crochet Baby Blanket

Colourful Granny Rainbow Crochet Baby Blanket, by Kirsten Ballering from haakmaarraak.nl

This Colourful Granny Rainbow Crochet Baby Blanket may look complicated, but it’s much easier than you think. Beginners who’ve mastered the granny square can pull off this pattern with just a bit of basic color changing and joins.

If you adored these afghans for beginners, be sure to check out our complete collection of 51 Free Crochet Blanket Patterns for Beginners.

What are your favorite blankets to work up? Do you have a go-to pattern for gift-giving, etc?

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