Dec 7, 2014 |
This cute and creative idea was inspired by a magazine ad I saw years ago. It’s my favorite homemade craft.
People Feeder
This versatile project can be themed around any holiday, or any decorating style.
You’ll need:
- A wood birdhouse with plastic windows
- Acrylic paints
- Glitter (optional)
- Decorative add-ons (optional)
- Small candies
- assorted paint brushes
- cleaning rag
- water in a small dish (for brush cleaning)
People Feeder Supplies
Acrylic paints dry quickly, which makes this an easy afternoon craft. Starting with the inside of the birdhouse, pour a small amount of paint on the wood then use a paintbrush to spread it around and get into the edges. If you want to add a little extra touch, sprinkle glitter over the paint while it’s still wet.
After you’ve painted the entire birdhouse inside and out, carefully lay on its side separating the base and the lid, and let it dry overnight.
Let it Dry
Carefully scrape off any dried paint from the windows. For more creative detail, glue on painted decor or tiny tokens (miniature candy canes, ribbons, tiny packages, dollhouse ornaments).
Fill with your favorite small candies then step back and watch your people flock to this fun centerpiece.
This craft costs less than $10 for all supplies, and takes about an hour to complete.
Happy Holiday Decorating!
And Frankly, My Dear . . . that’s all she wrote!
You may also enjoy reading:
Bedford Manor on a Budget: Christmas Wreaths
Bedford Manor on a Budget: Candles in Cups
Bedford Manor on a Budget: Pine Cones on Display
Bedford Manor on a Budget: A Light Decor
Bedford Manor on a Budget: Pine Cones in a Vase
Bedford Manor on a Budget: Christmas Candies
Dec 3, 2014 |
I love pine cones. They’re fresh, woodsy, and versatile. Most stores sell them in bags, or if you have neighbors with pine trees, you can ask them for the dropped cones.
Next to my Nutcracker Village, this is one of my favorite Christmas decorations.
A display of pine cones brings a touch of the outdoors inside, and adds a splash of color to any Christmas shelf.
Pine Cones in a Sleigh
This craft is extremely easy. You’ll need:
- A display container
- Pine cones
- Garland or other decorative filler
- Spray paint
- Newspaper (optional)
Start by selecting pine cones that are sized for your container. You can use a decorative item like a sleigh or basket, or you can paint a shoe box or other container.
If you’re using fresh pine cones, I recommend putting them upside down or sideways on a cookie sheet in the oven at 200 degrees for approximately twenty minutes. After removing from the oven, let cool then carefully tap them. This will remove any seeds and tiny bugs that might be hiding.
Once you have your cones selected, lay several them out on a newspaper or plastic sheet, and spray paint. Allow them to dry for at least 24 hours.
Depending on the size of your container, you may want to crumple some newspaper to put under the cones and garland. This will add height and dimension to your display.
Arrange the garland/filler and top with your painted and unpainted cones.
Display of Pine Cones in a Sleigh
You can add candy canes, jingle bells, winter flowers, or whatever holiday decor works best with your other decor.
The price will range, depending on your container, garland/filler selection, and how many cones you paint. Try different cone sizes. Sprinkle with holiday glitter. Top with a small Santa doll. Make it your own.
However you decorate this season, I wish you a Merry one!
And Frankly, My Dear . . . that’s all she wrote!
You may also enjoy reading:
12 Wishes of Christmas
How Bedford Manor Got Its Name
My Favorite Christmas Movie
