Crochet
Crochet has been around for years but is becoming increasingly popular again. No longer is crocheting the domain of hats, scarves and blankets! Just one of the trends is crochet in miniature. The most popular miniature crocheted items are small flowers and hearts which can be made and then added as an embellishment to a pouch or hat, for example. Other fashionable items include small cute animals and cushion covers. Many creative craft experts don't stop there! They have managed to include crotchet into such items as jewellery and plant pot covers.
Pineapples
Pineapples are back in fashion but they are a little different from the 1960's plastic ice bucket! Today they are more likely to be made of paper mache or clay and used as decorations. There are many good web sites giving instructions on how to make a pineapple. Children may also favor a pineapple structure as it is the home of a little sponge person who lives under the sea!
Mini Clay Animals and Food
Again the miniature theme is in evidence but this time the medium used is air dry clay. Air dry clay is very versatile as it can be shaped, stamped and coiled and dries naturally without the need for a kiln. Small clay shaped animals that can be painted and then attached to necklaces, earrings or key rings. These can be seen on many of the most visited craft sites. Small clay food items can be used for garnishing bowls or as props for a doll's house and are wonderfully realistic. A steady hand or a well-shaped cutting tool is all that is required to get the shape of the object you desire.
Centerpieces
A good table centerpiece can really make all the difference to a table setting. So what's in vogue right now? The use of colored sand for table centerpiece is a good, cost-effective and imaginative way of creating your own theme. The sand can be layered in one or a variety of colors in a glass or crystal bowl and then add whatever you like to sit on the top. Small plants, candles and shells look beautiful atop coordinating sand shades or personalize to suit your event: for example a small American football helmet for a Super Bowl party would look fantastic.
D.I.Y Wedding Crafts
For the more creative bride making some of the table decorations or favors herself or with her bridesmaids adds a real uniqueness to the special day. Clay hearts and birds which can be placed or hung are universally admired and can even be inscribed with a personal message. These have even been used for table decorations: hanging from a wooden tree like structure as a centerpiece.
Easter
Easter eggs and bunnies epitomize the occasion for children but with a little imagination you can bypass the shop bought and create something special. Paper mache, crotchet, clay and colored sand can all be used to create the theme shapes but giving different textures and finishes depending on the use. How about creating a paper mache bunny carrying a crocheted basket filled with chocolate eggs? The only limit is your imagination. A simple table center could utilize the sand in a bowl, as discussed in centerpieces, with the addition of eggs, chicks or brightly colored paper mache eggs, or you could go fabulous and create an enormous bejeweled air dry clay masterpiece.
As many craft materials are inexpensive and easy to use it can be exciting to be creative and stay on trend. Have a go and see which appeal to you most and don't forget to have fun!
