The Crafty Tipster

Mardi Gras Beads Crafts

Wondering what to do with leftover Mardi Gras Beads? Crafts of course! Everything from stunning mosaics by professional bead artists to family DIY projects.

Adventures in Afghan Repairs

I was honored with the task of repairing a stunning vintage afghan. I'm so excited how well it turned out.

Paper Mache Hearts – Part 2

A conversation about making paper mache hearts. Personal recommendations, lessons learned and why I would go a different route next time.

Paper Mache Hearts – Part 1

My first foray into paper mache since childhood - paper mache hearts for Valentine's Day. A great family craft although it can be a bit messy.

No Sew Felt Flowers

Dress up any outfit with a layered, no-sew felt flower brooch. Pattern is one of several free flower tutorials by Kolleen of Design by Night.

Weaving In Ends

Love to crochet but hate weaving in ends? I've tried every kind of needle I could find. One stunk, several were just OK, but I did find my new fave too.

Wool Needles, Where Have You Been All My Life?

Hate weaving in crochet ends? Try wool needles and you might actually enjoy the once-dreaded task.

Clover Darning Needles with Latch Hook Eye

Pros and cons of the Clover Darning Needles with Latch Hook Eye. Where they are clever, where they aren't and do they stay in my crochet tool chest.

Susan Bates Finishing Needles

My review of Susan Bates Finishing Needles. Others love them but they're not for me. Seems like a good idea but there are far better options out there.

Weaving in Ends with Sewing Needles

A review of hand needles from traditional darning needles to upholstery needles, bent-tip needles and a little bit of everything in between.