When I was a child growing up in Maine, my grandparents came to our house each and every May Day with little baskets filled to the brim with candies, animal cookies and popcorn. These vibrant baskets were decorated with frilled papers and tissue flowers and were a delight to look at, even after the contents […]
I am saddened by the fact that this is my last post here at The Crafty Yankee. I will be handing over the reins to a new crafter next week, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us! This change comes about for the very best of reasons: my husband […]
Tulips were the hot item at the farmers market this weekend. I couldn’t resist grabbing a gorgeous pink bouquet to spruce up the dining room table. To compliment my spring-y, bright centerpiece, I decided to craft some napkin rings from pastel colored paint chips. I loved the final result, and the craft take less than […]
At the risk of turning into a Portlandia cliché, I’m really fond of birds’ nests as a decorative motif. Exhibit A: this ring, purchased at a shop in, ahem, Portland (Maine, not Oregon). The symbolism may be heavy-handed, but nests do make me feel happy and cozy. Fortunately, the marketplace agrees with me. Any vaguely […]
When furnishing a home or apartment, deciding to buy used furniture and fix it up is a sound economic choice, and it keeps more items out of the landfills. If the finish is in terrible condition, however, it may require a lot of time and effort to restore it to its former glory. Use our […]
Gift baskets are wonderful for many occasions. The best — and most frugal — is one you fill yourself, and you can save even more if you think like a Yankee. First, set a budget and stick to it. Second, buy an inexpensive but attractive basket at a discount store or use one you’ve saved […]
Wondering how to create that perfect, invisible china plate, cup, or statue fix? China and crystal repair expert Dean Schulefand explains repairing china in 5 steps. For the last 32 years, Dean Schulefand, a china and crystal repair expert, has stood as the last line of defense for broken, sometimes shattered, vases and platters, statues and […]
For a special handmade gift, a vintage-inspired scented lavender heart is sure to please. Antique linen and old-fashioned sewing methods are all you need to make these beautiful, lavender-filled sachets. Materials to Make Vintage Scented Lavender Hearts: Linen Small bits of ribbon Lavender Needle and thread Instructions to Make Vintage Scented Lavender Hearts: Cut out […]
Every week Kathy Spencer does the impossible: For her family of six, she spends just $4 a week on groceries. No, that’s not a typo. Spencer, who lives north of Boston and is the author of How to Shop for Free (Da Capo Press), is a master when it comes to coupons and rewards programs. […]
This sweet and touching project has become my favorite Valentine’s gift, and it’s far more personal than the standard roses and chocolates! It’s so simple to transform a shadow box into a valentine keepsake inspired by your sweetheart or loved ones. I dedicated this February 14th gift to my two daughters, Sylvie and Lila. During […]
If you’re planning a romantic Valentine’s dinner for two, or a Valentine’s bash for friends, why not wear your heart on your sleeve (or on your wineglass!) with these easy-to-make tags.Materials: Modeling clay (air-dry is best), heart-shaped cookie cutter, rolling pin, decorative stamp, wax paper, toothpick, indoor/outdoor satin spray-paint, decorative wire, beads.Instructions: Step 1: Put […]
How to make sunlights prints using paper, found objects, and the sun. Kids love this easy craft idea!
