Handilady Crafting Projects

An unconventional way with which to decoupage is by using fabric. For this brightly coloured blind, gingham stars are attached to a fabric blind using fabric iron-on adhesive which makes it simple to make and also very effective.

A really fun way to decorate a set of drawers is to disguise them as an alternative storage space, such as stacked shelves. Having found some pictures in a magazine of towels, cushions and fabrics piled high, I cut them out and glued them onto the drawers.

Wooden fruit and vegetable crates are much too good to be thrown away once emptied, so rescue them and dress them up with vibrant colour and ribbon to make a great set of boxes for candles or table-linen (linens).

A gilded sun graces the lid of a plain wooden box with a touch of celestial mystery. This luxurious effect is easy to achieve using Dutch metal leaf. Delineate the area to be gilded with Japanese gold size to provide an adhesive backing, then apply the Dutch metal leaf as a transfer.

This unusual box is almost as pretty in two halves as it is when assembled. For maximum impact, choose two contrasting or complementary colours for the two halves so that the pattern of the curves stands out.

A romantic keepsake for Valentine’s Day, or any time of the year. Avoid the usual whimsical “Victoriana” look by using strong colours and shapes. Découpage is an easy technique that gives spectacular results.

Toleware, or painted tin, derives its distinctive character from bright colours and bold brush strokes, which contrast strongly with a dark background. The finish is permanent and, though not as durable as enamelled tin, is ideal for decoratingstorage containers.

Boxes are the perfect packing for awkwardly shaped gifts. Use our simple pattern to transform a sheet of thin card (cardboard) into an attractive box, having stamped a repeating design across the card (cardboard) before folding it. Make it special by choosing a motif to suit the gift inside.

Fresh flowers make a touching gift, but lose their beauty all too soon. This arrangement of dried flowers will last for years — a constant reminder of a special relationship.

Delight a youngster with this easy-to-make rocking cradle. Fit it with mini bed linen made with fabric scraps and it’s ready for a favourite toy.