Pocket Angels Crafts - Sharing a Crafty Ministry

"Do you have one or more Pocket Angels? You know, those coin-sized medallions with an image of an angel inscribed on it. They come with attached to a prayer or thought for you and bring encouragement.

If you have a couple and would like some ideas for things to do with them, check out this article that I wrote for eHow.com. I had a blast thinking up ways to use them."

Read the article here...

DIY Graduation Gifts that Won't Break the Bank

"Let the graduate's skills, goals, awards and experiences guide you in planning a DIY graduation gift. Such a gift need not be expensive to demonstrate how happy you are for her."

Custom photo frame

Supplies:

Plain photo frame in desired size

Acrylic paint or sealant, for wood frames

Scrapbooking add-ons

Clear varnish or acrylic sealant

Optional: photo of graduate or family

Turn a plain photo frame into a special gift with the addition of images designed for scrapbooking. Incorporate the graduate’s interests, school colors or future plans into the design. Paint a plain wood frame or start with a simple finish.

Arrange the design elements around the frame. Once the layout satisfies you, secure them into place. Seal the design with clear varnish or acrylic and allow the frame to dry thoroughly.

Add a photo of the graduate which suits the theme of the frame for a unique and personal gift. If she will be going away following graduation, consider decorating the frame with images of favorite family activities and using a photo of the family.

Custom diploma frame

Supplies:

Matted document frame

Scrapbooking add-ons

Use scrapbooking add-on elements to decorate the mat around a diploma frame with images appropriate for the graduate. Look for lettering in school colors, images representing the subject of the degree or certificate or symbols of favorite activities.

This simple mat turns the frame into a personal representation of the student and allows him to hang the diploma or certificate on a wall instead of burying it in a drawer.

Cross-stitched wall hanging

Supplies:

Cross-stitching pattern depicting the subject of the degree

Cross-stitching pattern of letters for personalization

Fabric for stitching the design

Embroidery tools: floss, needles, hoop, scissors

Optional: mat and frame

If you have time to complete a cross-stitched hanging for the graduate, you’ll give something very special. Visit your local needlecraft or hobby shop for career-oriented patterns and add the graduate’s name, degree and date of graduation from basic lettering charts.

The adventurous crafter can graph a cross-stitched motto or adage or even a version of the diploma! Let your imagination guide you toward the perfect idea for your cross-stitched gift.

How to Make a Wishing Well Flower Holder from a Coffee Can

Don't throw away that empty coffee can. Use it to spruce up your place by turning it into a decorative flower holder. You can use it for artificial or real flowers. Perhaps best of all, you could use it as a project to spend time with children. Just cut the wood ahead of time to make it a safe children's project.

Detailed instructions here...

Crocheted Shamrock Hot Pads - Protect Your Table with Style!

Put your Irish on the table with a pair of shamrock hot pads. It's an easy crochet project, suitable for a beginning crocheter who knows single and double crochet.

Click here for complete instructions.

Opposition skewers: No-stress snack for the Super Bowl or other sports-themed party

"Make these tasty finger foods ahead of time and you'll be free to enjoy the party, too! They're fun, easy and adaptable -- perfect for a sports themed party."

Sample signs for skewers

Click here for step-by-step details.

The Peppermint Bird - An edible Christmas craft

For a party table, a buffet or just to have handy to share with unexpected guests, the Peppermint Bird provides an easy and colorful delight. The project is easy, making it suitable for children to be involved. Unlike a floral display, the Peppermint Bird and her nest will stand up to holiday traffic. Replenish the supply of “eggs” as needed.

Click here for more on this fun Christmas project.

Thanksgiving Place Mats: A Craft for Kids to Save the Sanity of Parents

"Honor the spirit of Thanksgiving and keep the kids occupied until the meal is ready by making place mats that recount what the child is thankful for on the big day. Stickers, drawings, wording or a combination can turn a sheet of paper into a decorative addition to the dinner table."

Click here for more on this handy project.