Home - 30 Minute Crafts

Windowed Zippered Pouch

November 30, 2015 by Carolina 1 Comment

I love zippered pouches like this circle clutch and topstitched zipper bag. They are super handy. This windowed zipper pouch has all the handy holding capabilities of a standard zippered pouch, with the added benefit of a vinyl window – so you can see at a glance what is in the bag! The Windowed Zippered Pouch is very handy!

You’ll need vinyl (found as vinyl tablecovering in the upholstery fabrics section)
Fabric of your choice (a fat quarter is plenty)
12″ zipper
Ribbon and keyring (optional)

Cut your fabric:
2 – 9″x 2″
2 – 9″x6″
Cut the Vinyl:
1 – 9″x5″

All seams are 1/4″ unless otherwise noted.

Put the vinyl between the two 2″ pieces, with the right sides facing the vinyl. Stitch.

Open fabric, roll up vinyl to tuck into the fabric layers, out of the way.

Pin the zipper in place, between the layers of fabric.

Stitch the zipper, when you get to the zipper pull, stop. Lift your presser foot, move the zipper pull out of the way, then continue sewing.

Turn this section right side out by inverting the tube at one end.

Continue all the way down.

Topstitch on either side of the fabric. This is optional, but makes the zippered pouch look much more finished.

Sandwich this section between the two larger pieces of fabric, right sides towards the vinyl, and sew the zipper in place.

Open up the layers, topstitch down.

Make sure the zipper is open halfway, sandwich the vinyl layer between the two backing pieces.

Sew almost all the way around – stopping 2″ from the end.

Trim off any excess seam allowance, and clip the corners.

Turn right side out through the hole, pin the hole closed.

Add a ribbon and keyring, if you like.

Stitch the hole closed.

Your windowed zippered pouch is complete! Maybe make a hexagon needle book to put inside?

Filed Under: 30 minute crafts, fabric Tagged With: pouch, Sew, zipper

Hexie Needle Book

November 25, 2015 by Carolina 3 Comments

When I’m not whipping up fast crafts, I like to do a little sewing. Recently, I had the chance to teach English Paper Piecing to some friends of mine. We were hand-stitching hexagons together, so I made them each a little needle book to hold their hand needles. These needle books are simple to make, and are a great gift for anyone who likes to sew!

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Supplies:
Felt
Scrap Fabric (cotton woven fabric – I used solid black)
Sizzix Fabi Cutter
Hexagon Die

Cut two felt hexagons using the die and machine. Then cut 2-3 fabric hexagons.

Layer the fabric hexies between the two felt hexies. Put under the sewing machine. Stitch a zig-zag stitch down one side. Go back-and-forth at the beginning and end of the seam to secure.

Your needle book is complete!

Filed Under: 15 minute crafts, easy, fabric, fast and cheap, simple Tagged With: felt, gift, sewing

Dreamcatcher Heart

November 22, 2015 by Carolina Leave a Comment

One of my favorite camp crafts was making a dreamcatcher. I loved the lore behind this fun craft – that mothers would hang a dreamcatcher abover their child’s bed, and all the bad dreams would be caught in the web, while all the good dreams would be allowed to slip through the holes. In this spirit, I decided to make a dreamcatcher using a heart-shaped cutout instead of the traditional circle.

To make the heart dreamcatcher I needed:
Heart wood cutout
White Pearl Cotton (or string)
Red Beads
Silver Letter Beads
Scissors
Pink Paint
Paintbrush

I peeled off the label, and gave the heart a quick coat of paint.

Then I started looping the string through. It took a couple tries to find the right configuration, I liked this looping best.

Once I got all the way around, I started a second loop – this time going through the previous loops instead of over the frame.

I added a few red beads along the way.

Instead of going all the way around, I kept the design asymmetrical, skipping the loops on one side as I continued around in a spiral.

On the other side I added the “L O V E” beads.

Done! Ready to catch all the bad dreams, and let the good ones through…

Filed Under: 30 minute crafts, paper, valentine Tagged With: 30 minutes, decor, kids

Fabric Hoop Necklace

November 17, 2015 by Carolina Leave a Comment

While I was at Quiltmarket, I was introduced to these fun hoops – perfect for framing your favorite fabrics for you to wear! They are 3D printed, and the perfect size for fussy-cutting your favorite prints. And the best part is that they are a simple, no-sew project! The second best part? They can be whipped up in 15 minutes or less!

You’ll need:
Hoop kit from Stars & Sunshine
Your favorite fabric – I used this fox print from Lecien’s Minny Muu Fall 2015 line.
Hot Glue
Jump Ring
Jewelry Pliers
Necklace Chain

I’m going to start off by saying that Stars & Sunshine has instructions on how to put the necklace together. I didn’t follow them. I didn’t even watch them. Not because they aren’t awesome (she’s awesome, so I’m sure her instructions are awesome), but because I’m a rebel. And because, seriously, these little hoops are pretty idiot-proof. I didn’t watch her instructions, and the necklace still turned out awesome. Winning.

I started out by cutting a piece of the fabric larger than the backing piece. which is the smallest of the two circles included in the kit.

I then held it up to the light to center my favorite little fox.

Then cut a circle around the center piece, about 1/2″ of margin fabric.

I put it in the frame, and tightened the screw for the hoop.

Double-check that the fox stayed centered… yes. Perfect.

All that excess fabric? I just secured it with hot glue. It needs to fit inside the frame, so I pressed it down with the back of a paintbrush. Very scientific.

A nice big dollop of hot glue in the center to secure the back. Not too big, we don’t want it squishing out…

Press the backing piece in place. The heat can transfer through – so be sure not to burn sensitive fingers!

Add a necklace chain and jump ring…

Your favorite fabric has become a wearable – with no sewing required! Simple!

Filed Under: 15 minute crafts, easy, fabric, jewelry, simple Tagged With: fabric, necklace

Consequence Dice

November 15, 2015 by Carolina Leave a Comment

Do you ever threaten your child with an “or else?” Like “Listen to me or else!” or “Clean up your room or else!” … and they’re pretty confident that you have nothing to back up the “or else” with? Now, you CAN back up your “or else” with something of substance – these consequence dice! You can tell your kiddos that if they don’t clean up their act, they’re going to have to roll the dice! One of the dice includes a time interval, the other includes 6 different household chores. If you have to take your time to continually remind them… it is only fair that they spend some of their time helping out around the house… amirite?

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You’ll need:
Wooden blocks – 1.25″ or larger
Consequence Printable – I printed this on my HP Envy 5540 printer
Scissors
Paint Brush
Mod Podge

Print out the printable. Lots of possible chores are listed, as well as times. There are some blank dots if you have different chores you’d like to include, just write them in. The colors really have no significance. They are just to make it pretty. Because it is about time that doling out consequences had some beauty attached, right moms?

Cut out 6 of the consequences, and 6 of the times. If you’re feeling ambitious, make a second die with 6 more consequences on it, so you can switch things up… or provide double the punishment.

Use a little Mod Podge to secure them onto the wooden blocks. Do 5 sides, allow them to dry, then do the 6th side.

Your consequences are ready to be delivered. Dare your children to disobey…

Filed Under: 30 minute crafts, kids, paper, printable, simple Tagged With: mod podge, mom

Snowman Mason Jar

November 13, 2015 by Carolina Leave a Comment

This simple mason jar snowman is perfect for gift giving this holiday! You can whip up one, or several, and fill them with your favorite holiday treats – candy, cookies, mixes, money … whatever fits in a mason jar and is perfect for gift giving can be tucked inside to become a great holiday gift!

This Snowman Mason Jar can be whipped up in less than 15 minutes, just like all the projects shared in this week’s Craft Lightning Holiday Edition. All week long, Angie from The Country Chic Cottage, Aunt Peaches, and I have been sharing a new fast and easy holiday craft project each day, and we’ve had our friends join in with us. Check out all their awesome ideas below.

Supplies:
Snowman Printable Label
Labels (I used these from Online Labels)
Mason Jar
Red Felt
Pipe Cleaners
Scissors
Hot Glue

Watch the video to see how easy it is to put the snowman mason jar together:

simple snowman mason jar for gift giving

And check out these other fun and fast holiday craft ideas:

Jennifer Priest at Just JP made these fast and festive table settings.

Barb at Mom off Track made this great peppermint sugar scrub (which might look good in a snowman mason jar – just sayin’).

Ashley at My Craftily Ever After is getting her stocking stuffers put together, like these car kits.

These holiday succulents from Happy Go Lucky blog are adorable!

Check out this fun snowman ornament from Artistic Endeavor.

This shell ornament from Fireflies and Jellybeans is a great memory to hang on the tree.

Over at One Artsy Mama, Amy made this fun Reindeer food Ornament.

You can check out these great leftover art ornaments at Aunt Peaches.

And Angie from the Country Chic Cottage made this cute mirror ball snowman ornament.

Thanks for joining us for this week of fast holiday crafts!

Filed Under: 15 minute crafts, Christmas, craft lightning, fast and cheap, quick, video Tagged With: Holiday, jar, Snow

Pinecone Earrings

November 12, 2015 by Carolina 3 Comments

The holidays are a great time for dressing up, and for giving gifts. These simple glittery pinecone earrings are great for dressing up with, or for gift giving… and they are simple enough to make, you can make a pair to give and a pair to keep!

This quick and easy project was made in less than 15 minutes… which is the theme for this week. Holiday craft projects that can be made in 15 minutes or less. And all week long, I’m sharing fast holiday crafts, and so are my Craft Lightning co-hosts, Angie from The Country Chic Cottage and Aunt Peaches. You can see their projects, as well as the quick crafts from some of our talented friends, if you scroll down.

Supplies:
Mini Pinecones
Jewelry Chain
Earring Hooks
Jump Rings
Jewelry Pliers
Mod Podge
Glitter
Paintbrush
Hot Glue

Pick two small pinecones that are close to the same size.

Make the hardware. Start by cutting the chain into two pieces each about 1.5″ long. If you like longer or shorter earrings, you can adjust the length.

Attach the jump rings to one end, and the earring wires to the other.

Use a dot of glue at the top of each pinecone to secure the jump ring in place. Make sure to keep the chain out of the way, you want it to swing freely.

You can stop here, but I thought I’d add a little bling. I’m not a big fan of glitter (it gets absolutely everywhere!), but sometimes it is just the perfect touch. I have some antique glitter that I love to pull out for these occasions… and I always use my favorite glitter technique. Pour out equal amounts of Mod Podge and glitter.

Stir together with a paintbrush, and paint on. This keeps the glitter from getting all over the place as you use it, it allows you to control how much glitter gets on your project, and it helps keep it in place when done.

You can use the paint brush to get the glitter between the bits of the pinecone.

You can hang the earrings on a paintbrush handle and allow to dry.

When the Mod Podge is dry, you’ll have fun, sparkly, and festive earrings that you can wear out… or give to a friend!

And check out these other fun and fast holiday craft ideas:

Katie over at A Sweet Berry made this felt Christmas tree with cute pom-pom accents.

Over at Hey Let’s Make Stuff, Cori made this sweet Christmas Countdown Calendar.

This wine tote was whipped up by Vanessa at Tried and True.

I’m loving this adorable jingle bell firetruck ornament Simply Kelly Designs created.

I love soft lighting during the holidays, and Steph at The Silly Pearl did just that with this great light up holiday wreath.

Over at Laura’s Crafty Life, Laura has captured my chocolate-loving heart with this snowflake jar.

All the sweetness of cookies, with none of the calories, using this faux cookie ornament idea from Beth Watson Design Studio.

Learn how to put together a fun holiday centerpiece in 15 minutes over at Hawthorne and Main.

Aunt Peaches dusted off our favorite camp craft – the God’s Eye – to use as an awesome ornament!

And Angie from The Country Chic Cottage made this great washi tape ornaments.

Be sure to stop back by tomorrow for the final installment of our 15 minute holiday Craft Lightning series!

Filed Under: 15 minute crafts, Christmas, craft lightning, easy, fast and cheap, jewelry Tagged With: earrings, Holiday, quick, Simple

Wreath Napkin Ring

November 11, 2015 by Carolina 3 Comments

Holiday Table Decor for the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. Simple touches make for an elegant table setting, and don’t take much time at all – like this simple wreath napkin ring! Easy to make (and super inexpensive), this simple napkin ring craft takes only a few minutes to make!

This project is part of this week’s Craft Lightning series, where every day my co-hosts Angie from The Country Chic Cottage, and Aunt Peaches are sharing a 15-minute (or less) holiday craft idea… and so are our crafty friends from around the internet! Be sure to scroll down to see all of their fun and fast Holiday Craft ideas!

This post contains affiliate links that help support this site at no additional cost to you.

Supplies:
Scissors
Evergreen Chenille Stems (these are similar)
Ribbon

You’ll need two stems per napkin ring. Wrap the first pine stem into a circle. Begin twisting the end around the loop.

Then, start twisting the second stem around and around the loop. This helps fill it in.

If needed, adjust to make the circle shape.

When you’re done, tie a ribbon on the top with a double knot.

Trim the ends of the ribbon…

… and your napkin ring is complete!

(If you’re wondering, the china pattern is Lenox Hannah Platinum, it is simple and classic and I love it like crazy).

Now that you’ve got the easiest, classy table settings, check out these other fun and fast Holiday crafts:

Jen Gallacher made this sweet countdown calendar!

Karen at Dragonfly and Lilypads made a lovely tree that is great for any holiday decor.

Carol and Randi at FrugElegance show you how to make holiday gift clips.

If you like making your own holiday decor, you’ll love these Christmas stars from Carla Schauer.

Everyone loves a beautifully wrapped gift – Niki at 365 Days of Crafts shows you how you can wrap your gift.

Whip up this great holiday hoop art, Albion Gould shows you how!

Are you a Sock Monkey Junkie? Then you’ll love this sock monkey inspired garland that Laura is sharing over at Me and My Inklings!

You can whip up some fun felt ornaments with this tutorial from Cyn at Creative Cyncronicity.

Aunt Peaches grabbed her office supplies, and whipped up this super adorable garland! Cu-ute, y’all!

And Angie from the Country Chic Cottage got busy with Baker’s Twine, making these adorable handmade Christmas Cards.

Be sure to swing back by tomorrow for more fun and fast holiday craft ideas!

Filed Under: 15 minute crafts Tagged With: Christmas, decor, table setting

Holiday Wreath Earrings

November 10, 2015 by Carolina 3 Comments

Holiday Jewelry can be super simple and inexpensive to make. For most, you’ll need some basic supplies… but for these earrings, you don’t need any tools at all to make your own holiday jewelry (for yourself or to give as gifts). These Holiday Wreath Earrings are crazy simple to make, and you’ll get lots of compliments on how adorable they are!

These holiday earrings were made in less than 15 minutes (way, way less), which is part of this week’s theme! All week long, Angie from The Country Chic Cottage, and our friend Aunt Peaches, are sharing fast and fun holiday crafts that can be done in 15 minutes or less. And we’ve invited some of our most creative friends to join us. Scroll to the bottom of the post to check out all their awesome ideas!

This post contains affiliate links which help support this site at no additional cost to you.

Supplies:
Earring Wires
Wreath Ornaments (I got mine at Hobby Lobby, but these wreath ornaments are similar, and I think even cuter!)

Open the package (I feel like I need to add that as an instruction, otherwise these wreath earrings are only one step to make).

Take out two ornaments.

Feed the cord from one ornament into the bottom loop of the earring wire.

Feed the wreath through the loop in the cord.

Pull tight to secure.

Repeat for the other earring.

Boom. Done. It probably takes longer to put them on than it does to make them.

And, since you’ve got all this extra crafting time left, check out these awesome 15 minute or less holiday crafts:

Lisa at Stuff n Such made this cute ornament that can double as an air freshener (holiday aromatherapy, anyone?

I love this wood slice snowman from Dinah at DIY Inspired. How cute and simple is this?

Over at Frog Prince Paperie, Paula made this holiday decor that would be great in your home, or to give as a gift.

Upcycle a juice lid like Erin from My Very Educated Mother with this fun fringed ornament.

You can make this sweet ornament like Valerie at Occasionally Crafty did.

If you love paper, you’re going to love this 3D paper ornament from Jen Goode at 100 Directions.

Rhonda at Mrs. Greene painted up a simple ornament – a great craft to do with kids!

Our Guest co-host, Aunt Peaches, made these super fun pom pom branches – and shows a couple different ways to incorporate them in your holiday decor.

And my co-host, Angie from The Country Chic Cottage made these lovely luminaries that anyone can make!

Be sure to come back tomorrow for more fun and fast holiday crafting ideas!

Filed Under: 10 minute crafts, Christmas, craft lightning, jewelry Tagged With: earrings, wreath

Simple Holiday Gift Box

November 9, 2015 by Carolina 3 Comments

The Holidays are coming! Someone, somewhere, has an obnoxious countdown calendar telling us how many days there are until Christmas. Or an even more annoying calendar counting down the weekends until Christmas. I prefer to shut my eyes and hum Christmas Carols… and then work on quick holiday crafts like this Simple Holiday Gift Box that make me think that no matter how few seconds I have until the clock strikes Christmas, I’ll still be able to get it all done!

All week long, my Craft Lightning co-hosts, Angie from the Country Chic Cottage, and Aunt Peaches from her fabulous self-titled site, will be sharing holiday crafts that you can make in 15 minutes or less. And, we’ve enlisted our craftiest internet friends to share their super-fast holiday craft ideas as well! Be sure to scroll to the bottom of this post to check out all their awesomeness.

To make this gift box, you’ll need:
Plain gift box
Festive ribbon
Faux Pine sprigs
Faux berry sprigs
Hot Glue (I used the awesome PINE SCENTED hot glue. This is awesomesauce)
Scissors

Start by cutting two lengths of ribbon.

Remove the lid from the box. Glue the ends of the ribbon around the sides and into the inside of the box. You’ll want the ribbons off-center so that there is plenty of room for the decoration on top.

Be sure not to use too much glue on the inside, you still want the box to close easily.

Pull off a couple of the berry sprigs.

Wrap the pieces around the ends of the pine sprigs to make a little bundle.

Tie ribbon to the end of the bundle.

Glue the bundle to the package, where the two ribbon ends cross.

Your box is complete! Set it aside so that you can put in a pretty scarf for a friend, or grab something off a shelf to give as a white elephant gift at the office party. The gift inside might be garbage, but at least the box is pretty!