Autumn and Halloween crafts with Bostik!

The nights are closing in and cold air is sweeping through our homes, Autumn is definitely here! There’s no need to be downcast though, less time out playing means more time indoors crafting for all members of the family. Today I’m showing you some fun Autumn and Halloween crafts that your kids are bound to enjoy. As part of the Bostik Craft Bloggers Network I receive a regular box of themed goodies that let my kids and I enjoy a great afternoon coming up with interesting ideas that are fun to make.

DSC_0209This month our box contained:

Pegs

Lolly Sticks

Pipe Cleaners

Faux Leaves

Bostik Glu Dots

Bostik Glu Pen

Ribbon

Polystyrene Balls

Melting Beads

Greaseproof Paper

Here’s what that lovely box turned into:

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Autumn Peg Fairies

A slight twist on the standard peg person, these peg fairies look great standing on a shelf or hung upon a tree.

Autumn Peg Fairies

Using the Bostik Glu dots two leaves are wrapped around a peg to create the fairy’s skirt.IMG_0498

Next cut a lolly stick into a few pieces and secure to both sides of the peg using the Bostik Glu Dots to make arms.IMG_0502

Wrap ribbon around the peg over and under the arms to make the bodice. Secure using the Bostik Glu Pen.IMG_0504

Next two leaves are used to make the wings. Using a Bostik Glu Dot stick part of a leaf down as shown in the following picture.IMG_0505

Stick to the back of your fairy.IMG_0509

We left our fairies looking simple, but of course you could create hair using wool and draw on a face.

Pumpkin & Skeleton Decorations

Made with specially designed beads these pumpkin and skeleton designs are the work of my son and husband. They could also be used as seasonal coasters.

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The beads are arranged in your chosen design upon a board. A piece of greaseproof paper is then laid upon the design and ironed. The iron melts the beads which joins them together.

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Spider Monster and Eyeball Decorations

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My daughter and youngest son made these designs by colouring in polystyrene balls. The spider monster then had pipe cleaners pushed into place and secured using the Bostik glu pen to make legs. They are very proud of their spooky creations.

Crafts for a Rainy Day!

Today we have a guest post packed with wonderful activities to keep you busy on a rainy day!

Gloomy, rainy days may provide the perfect excuse for sitting around watching films and vegging out. But, why waste the day away when you can be productive? Don’t let the dreary weather dampen your spirits and energy. Try some of these activities that will keep you occupied and bring out your creative side.

Turn a pillowcase into a T-shirt

Some of the best pieces of clothing are those that are worn, vintage, display your favourite rock band, or are created from another item that you love. This is because they have character and sentimental value. If you have a pillow case that you are particularly fond of, then show it off! First cut out holes for the head and arms. Start off very small and then gradually increase the size of the holes until you are pleased. Then cut the shirt to the length you like – long like a tunic, tailored at your waist or a chic crop top. Once you’re finished, you can leave the seams undone and frayed or finish them by sewing a hem or applying an adhesive that is found at craft stores.

Create your own greeting cards

There is something very special about handmade cards. That personal touch and effort really shows and recipients appreciate it. Keep cards on hand for any occasion by making your own personalised stock. Start off by measuring plain stationary so that it fits your envelopes. Then, fold it to form a card. Then use decorative pens or glue to write your salutation and adorn the card with whatever stickers, stamps, decorative paper, patterns and drawings you wish.

Make decorative vases

Have some old wine bottles lying around? Maybe some old vases that are boring and plain? Turn them into spectacular showpieces for your flower arrangements. All you need is spray paint to give them a bright, new look. To get intricate patterns and stripes, spray over rubber bands and them remove them. A glue gun is a great tool to write three-dimensional words and sayings. For even more texture, try adding Epsom salt.

Declutter and redecorate

Okay, just a little. Nobody wants to spend the entire day cleaning. However, it can be much more rewarding than you think. Decluttering and redecorating is quite invigorating. The process of getting rid of old junk helps clear your space and mind. Plus, there are services like musicMagpie that will pay you for any unwanted and old electronics. Afterwards, unleash your creative side, by rearranging furniture, adding color and new decorations to your space.

Snap eye-catching photographs

If a little rain doesn’t deter you from being outdoors, then grab your rain gear and a camera. Clouds, lightening and rain provide for some of the best shots. Play with different filters and settings to help capture the weather, streets, people, garden and anything that inspires you. Once you’re through, create a collage of your pictures or hang them throughout the house.

Win 1 of 5 pairs of tickets to Crafts for Christmas!

The festive season may not be upon us just yet, but if you’re a craft enthusiast then you have to start thinking early to make or buy handmade gifts and decorations. To help you along the way we’re giving away five pairs of tickets courtesy of ICHF to attend this years Crafts for Christmas fair!

Running from 3-6 November at the NEC in Birmingham, Crafts for Christmas has over 200 people exhibiting their fabulous and unique wares. There’s also an amazing food and drink aisle sure to tempt with handmade chocolates, marmalades, cheeses and wines.

The fair also incorporates Hobbycrafts and Art Materials Live, so if you fancy making your own gifts this year then you’ll find every supply imaginable.

How to Enter

Step 1. is mandatory and entries will not be valid unless this is followed, extra entries without step 1. being fulfilled will unfortunately not count.

Step 1. Follow this blog publicly (using either Google Friend Connect, Bloglovin or Feedburner on the right) and leave a comment mentioning you are following the blog (current followers need only comment). Remember to leave me a way to contact you if you win.

Extra entries – for each extra entry leave a comment to let me know:

1. Tweet about the comp for an extra entry

2. Follow us on Twitter

3. Like our page on Facebook (links on the right)

The competition will end at midnight 27 October 2011.

For further details on the event or venue please visit the ICHF website.