1. Plaster skulls.
Today is Halloween (Yay!), so that means all the decorations will be marked half off tomorrow.

Here is a tip: If you celebrate Day of the Dead, go early to the stores and scoop up some of those light up sparkle skulls - you know, the ones that are made of pitted rubbery plastic? Peel off the felt eyes and nose. Buy some plaster wrap from the craft store, cut it in strips and cover the skull with one layer. Let dry. Now take some decoupage medium and white gift tissue and cover it with that. Let dry. Paint white, and decorate as desired!





2. Sugar skulls.
Every year I get oodles of e-mails asking about sugar skulls. Used in Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations Nov. 1 and 2, the sugar represents the sweetness of life, while the skull signifies that the body has passed on.

The sugar skulls are colorful and bright and are used in altars to honor loved ones who have passed away. The trick to the skulls (and the icing) is the meringue powder. Mixed with water, it hardens the sugar for the skulls. It also works for the icing, but it is a long process. I have a shortcut, which is why I use mini-tubes of frosting from the grocery store. When all is said and done, they look just like the real thing and are simple to use. And you can learn more about Day of the Dead, its history, traditions and local celebrations at dead.azcentral.com.

Supplies:
1 set of plastic skull molds
Mixing bowl and spoon
2 cups of granulated sugar
2 teaspoons of meringue powder
2 teaspoons of water
1 piece of cardboard, approximately 5" x 5"

Mix the dry ingredients together in the bowl. Sprinkle the water in and continue to mix until the sugar is completely moistened and becomes the consistency of moist sand. Scoop some of the mixture into the mold and pack it evenly and firmly. Place the piece of cardboard on top of the mold and quickly flip it over so the sugar skull pops out. Very carefully slide it onto a flat surface.

Continue making the rest of the skulls. Let them dry for 24 hours in a dry place (indoors so ants won't get to them!).

Traditional icing (I prefer mini-icing tubes from the grocery store instead!):
2/3 cup of water
1/2 cup meringue powder
2 pounds of powdered sugar
Electric mixer
Concentrated food coloring (the kind professional cake bakers use)
1 pastry or Ziploc bag
Plastic cups
Spoon

Blend the ingredients with an electric mixer until the peaks form in the icing. If using assorted colors, scoop the white icing into separate bowls and add a dab of different colored food coloring in each one. Mix again. Scoop the icing into the pastry or Ziploc bag (snip the corner for the latter). Continue until you have several bags of different colors. Keep sealed and refrigerated until use.

Makes four small skulls

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2006. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Day of the Dead, Halloween, Latin-inspired

Kathy Cano-Murillo
The Arizona Republic
Oct. 27, 2007 12:00 AM

There are few things like old-school horror flicks to get you in the mood for Halloween.

If you are having a party, or plan to stay in to watch a Boris Karloff movie marathon, here is a spiffy coaster idea to add to the eerie atmosphere.

The coasters are made of fabric and are sealed with glossy varnish, which makes for easy cleanup. (Just wipe off with a damp cloth.) I know what you are thinking: "Where did she find those pictures?" Easy. Google images. Just type in the image you want and you're bound to find it, or something close. Keep in mind, many images are copyrighted, which means you can use them only for personal reasons, not to sell or mass produce.

Supplies
4 images (5 inches by 3 inches each)
1 Inkjet fabric sheet
Scissors
HeatnBond
4 pieces of primed canvas (available in a pad in the art section of the craft store)
Iron, piece of scrap fabric (to protect ironing surface)
1 sheet of craft felt
Sewing machine
High-gloss spray or brush-on varnish and brush

Directions
Using a computer picture program, arrange the four images on one 8 1/2-inch by 11-inch page. Insert the fabric sheet face down in your printer. Print.

Cut out each image, and cut a piece of HeatnBond for each image. Cut the canvas sheet into pieces that are 5 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches.

One at a time, flip the images over (right side down), place the piece of HeatnBond shiny side down, cover with the scrap fabric, and with the iron on high, run it over the surface until the HeatnBond is adhered to the back of the image. Let cool and peel off paper backing. Set the image right side up on the piece of canvas, cover with the scrap fabric and iron so the image bonds to the canvas. Let cool.

Place a piece of felt behind the image and sew the edges using the zigzag feature. Repeat process for the other three images. Cut off any excess fabric from the edges. Varnish, let dry.

Tip: Do not varnish before sewing, otherwise it will gunk up your needle.


***
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2006. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: fabric, Halloween, home decor, sewing

Do you ever go to the craft store and stop and check out all the cool iron-on appliques? I can never decide which ones to buy. Here is a way to make use of all of them! These are Halloween themed appliques that are made from iron-on "studs". You can use them to make a crafty banner to hang on your front porch on Halloween night. You could even alternate the designs onthe flags with words or letters.

I made this last year using Tulip's Halloween designs. This year, they have a whole new crop to choose from.

You could also make one large banner for your door! If you don't want to use appliques, try stencils, fabric collage, patches, embroidery or freeform drawing with fabric markers!

Supplies
• 1 piece of typing paper cut into a 6- by 9- by 9-inch triangle (this will be your template)
• Pinking shears
• 1/4 yard of black cotton fabric, cut into five triangles
• 1/4 yard of orange cotton fabric, cut into five triangles
• 1/4 yard of interfacing, cut into five triangles
• Sewing machine and straight pins (or hot glue)
• Iron
• Tulip Halloween Iron- On Appliqués (available in T-shirt aisle at craft stores)
• 2 yards of black ribbon
• 2 yards of purple pompom fringe

Directions: Use your template and pinking shears to cut five triangles each from the black and the orange fabric, as well as the interfacing. Sort into sets for five triangles, preferably one orange and one black fabric piece per set. Insert one triangle-cut piece of interfacing between the fabric of each set. Sew each set around the sides, leaving the zigzag edges. On a flat surface, use the iron to apply appliqués to each outer side of the triangle according to package directions. Lay all the triangles in a row and pin the long strand of ribbon along the top to join them. Sew in place. If you do not want to sew, you can substitute hot glue. Apply fringe to the bottom of each triangle. Hang and enjoy!

Variations: Options to appliqués include iron-on letters, fabric paint and stencils, squeeze paint and foam stamps, or designs cut from printed fabric. If you want a longer banner, double the necessary supplies. You also can increase the template size for larger triangles.


***
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2006. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

Photo copyright, Kathy Cano-Murillo and The Arizona Republic.

After going to all the trouble of assembling an award-worthy costume for your kids, it would be a crime to send them out trick-or-treating with a boring plastic pumpkin candy basket.

Go that extra step and whip up an adorable furry friend that serves a great purpose. These monster bags can be made in any size, only take a few minutes to assemble and will make a happy statement for collecting candy. Visit your local fabric store to find fur in all kinds of crazy colors to match almost any kind of outfit. And after Halloween has come and gone, they will make great accessories year-round, because monsters never go out of style. Elmo can vouch for that.

Supplies
1/2 yard of fluffy faux fur in desired color
Scissors
Straight pins
Sewing machine or fabric glue
White craft glue
Googly eyes
1/2 yard of thick ribbon (for strap or handles)

Directions: Cut two pieces of fur each measuring 12 by 12 inches. After making the cut, pull off any loose fur fibers. Line up the two pieces fur-side in and pin three sides in place. Sew around three sides, backstitching and the beginning and ending stitch. Trim excess fur around edges, along top of the seam. Measure desired length of ribbon to make strap. Sew each end of strap to the inner seam of bag through opening. Be sure to sew several seams around attached area to secure handles. Trim any hanging threads. Arrange eyes on bag and use white craft glue to attach them. Let bag dry before using.

Click here for printable directions.
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

Scare up a Halloween doll makeover

Kathy Cano-Murillo
Special for the Republic
Oct. 12, 2007 01:48 PM


There is something deliciously fun about making something creepy.

Especially when you start with those naked dolls from the craft or dollar store. You know, the ones with the plastic hair, blinking eyelids and stiff lashes. (Shiver.) Well, I decided to give those babes a mischievous Halloween makeover with the help of a bit of black paint.

The dolls come in a variety of sizes, and even scarier - you can even score a bag of heads and arms for under $5. Can you imagine how cute it would be to have a Halloween zombie doll crocheted tissue-paper cover in your bathroom for your party?

Even better, zombie doll cupcake toppers with black icing! You could even go the Toy Story route and mix and match heads, torsos, legs and arms with other dolls or toys. I opted for the classic full-bodied dolls and had just as much fun. Try it and you'll see what I mean.

Here's what else we'd like to do with these dolls: Create one of an alter ego of your "dark side." Use as trophies for a costume contest. Use as a craft party activity.


Supplies
1 plastic doll body with flat feet (so they can be easily glued to base)
White craft paint with drops of black and blue mixed in for the skin tone
Brushes (thin and medium)
Fabric scraps, thread, ribbon
Scissors
Chain and trinkets for jewelry
Glitter
Hot glue gun and glue
1 wood base
Spray glitter (optional)

Directions
Tie the hair away from the head. Paint the entire body and face with the white paint. Use a liner brush and the black paint to add the eyebrows, liner, lips and tattoos. Let dry. Add clothing using the fabric scraps. Add the jewelry. Glitter as desired. Glue the feet to the base. Paint the base. If desired, add a coat of silver spray glitter to the hair.

***
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

I did a big pumpkin carving package for the paper, and I worked with our newsroom designers on coming up with some southwestern themed pumpkin carving templates. Even if you are a northerner, I think you'll enjoy these designs! Just print them off, tape them to your pumpkin and have at it!



Here is the link, and the templates are in the right column.

And here is a healthy page of info I put together that is all about pumpkin carving, Crafty Chica style.

Here are some other resources:

ONLINE

- carvingpumpkins.com: Hundreds of patterns, such as a cat on a broom, Finding Nemo, The Simpsons, Lord of the Rings, patriotic, celebrities and others.

- pumpkincarving101 .com: A guide to using tools to carve a basic pumpkin design.

- extremepumpkins.com: The wild side of pumpkin carving, featuring Mud-Flap Girl Pumpkin, Puking Pumpkin, Conjoined Twins Pumpkin, Radioactive Pumpkin, Carrie Pumpkin with Pumping Blood and many others. They now have a book out: Extreme Pumpkins: Diabolical Do-It-Yourself Designs to Amuse Your Friends and Scare Your Neighbors



- thepumpkinfarm.com/ jack/jackboard.html: Forget the mess by carving a virtual pumpkin online.

- spookmaster.com: Free stencils, instructions, games, recipes and more.

BOOKS

- Great Pumpkins, by Peter Cole (Chronicle Books, $14.95).

- Halloween Pumpkins & Parties: 101 Spooktacular Ideas, by Carol Field Dahlstrom (Better Homes and Gardens, $15.95).

- Pumpkin Chic: Decorating With Pumpkins and Gourds, by Mary Caldwell (Hearst Books, $19.95).

- Holiday Pumpkins: A Collection of Recipes, Gifts, and Decorations, by Georgeanne Brennan and Jennifer Barry (Ten Speed Press, $14.95).

and I LOVE this idea! A DVD all about carving your pumpkin! Great idea! A Complete Guide to Carving the Perfect Pumpkin, ($6.98)




And I saved the best for last. My friend and crafty co-worker at Duncan made this adorable pumpkin centerpiece, perfect for your next spooky party. I was there when the masterpiece was being created, and I remember vowing that I would blog about it!!!!

Drum roll...



Here are the directions for the "I'm So Scared" Centerpiece!



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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: food crafts, Halloween

This is a project from last year, but I'm going to post it again because I love it so much!

Sometimes all we want is easy. No directions, no thought of goof ups, nothing too detailed. That's when it's time to head to places like Target or Wal-Mart and pick up some ready-to-go Halloween decorations. But you don't just buy them and put them out, silly. I spotted these plastic light-up skulls and they looked so sad and well, plain. They were crying for color, especially for this time of the year. So I picked up a batch and embellished them with acrylic craft paint and added glittery accents with squeeze paint.

No muss, no fuss and not too gory or scary. The skulls come in various sizes and price ranges ($2.99-4.99), which make them even more appealing. If you have kids, line the kitchen table with newspaper and set out a shoebox full of craft supplies and let them go at it. You can then use them to light up the front porch, the fireplace mantle or use as centerpieces for a party.

Supplies:

1 plastic skull light purchased from a discount department store
Acrylic paints
Assorted small paintbrushes
Tulip 3D Fashion Paint in assorted colors and textures (shiny and glittered)
Loose glitter, sequins, gems, etc.

Directions: Using a paintbrush and paint, add designs around the eyes, mouth, cheeks and top of the head. Use different colors for the various areas. Let dry. Use the squeeze paint to outline or accent the areas of dried paint. Keep the designs big and bold for a more vibrant look. Add gems, sequins or loose glitter over the wet squeeze paint. Let the squeeze paint dry (about an hour) and then "brush" on the glittered squeeze paint over the flat paint to make it sparkle and look varnished.

Variations: You can also find light up pumpkins to be decorated as well. Write words on the forehead or even glue pictures on.


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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Day of the Dead, Halloween, lights

Today, my Lucha Libre Craft Lab epsiode airs on HGTV! 7 am!

We trick out a wrestler mask and think of fun names for our lucha alter egos that fit our personalities.

This would be an awesome Halloween costume, don't you think? We also make mini-shaker wrestler heads (my friend Anita's idea!!!), and lucha placecard holders.

Directions for the lucha mask.


Directions for the lucha cascarone eggs.


Directions for the lucha place holder.

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Cinco DeMayo, Craft Lab, Halloween, Latin-inspired, wearable art

It's finally October, pumpkin season! Like all other obsessive crafters, every year I hurt my brain trying to come up with some new and fantastic idea, only to see a better version in a glossy magazine. I don't think that will happen today. Maybe it's because of my addiction to the new fall TV season, but I've had nothing but screens on my mind. I think that's how this Pumpkin TV idea creeped into my imagination. The concept is to take any picture and transform your pumpkin into a lighted prop. To go the extra inch - bake a batch of rectangular cookies, use orange, brown and white icing and decorate them like TV remotes. Now that's what I call Must See TV!

Foam Pumpkin TV Set

Supplies:
1 medium foam pumpkin
1 heavy-duty craft knife
1 quarter of a piece of paper, pen, scissors
1 image printed on a sheet of vellum paper
Orange micro glitter, orange paint
Polka dot ribbon
Glue dots and hot glue gun
Plug-in pumpkin light (found at the craft store)
4 wood doll heads
2 chopsticks
4 purple spice drops

Directions: Using the scissors, round off the corners of the piece of paper to create the pattern for the "screen". Draw two shapes on the pumpkin where you will need to cut. Find the flattest side of the pumpkin, then lay the pattern down and trace around it. Turn it face down and draw a circle big enough to fit the light through. Using the craft knife or Dremel tool, cut out the two shapes.




Using your finger, apply a thin layer of orange paint around the inner edge of the screen, to cover the bumpy cut marks. Sprinkle the orange glitter over the wet paint. Let dry. Take the pumpkin piece that you cut out to make the screen. Lay your image over it and cut off the edges, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Apply glue dots around that border on the front side of the image. Feed the image through the hole you cut at the back of the pumpkin and carefully press the picture in place so it is centered and the image shows through. Use a hot glue to tack down any open spots and to add a border of ribbon around the screen. Turn the pumpkin upside down and glue on the wood doll heads for the "feet" of the TV. Turn the pumpkin right side up again, trim the chopsticks and poke them through the top of the pumpkin to look like antennas. Glue a purple spice drop on each one and also for the knobs at the side of the screen. Feed the light through the hole and glue in place if needed. Plug in and use!

Variations and tips: Only use a foam pumpkin for this project for safety reasons. Use family photos from past Halloween events for the image. Use white striped or speckled vellum paper to make it look like a real TV screen. For best results, insert the light from the back of the pumpkin, instead of inside the pumpkin. You can also cut several "windows" in the pumpkin and apply multiple pictures.

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

Haven't you always wanted to go out in a beehive wig? OK, if you already do that, how about one with flowers and plastic ants in it? This is a super easy Halloween get-up because all you do is make this wig and then throw on a black frock with some loud, bouncy, clangy jewelry and you are set to go! And you can theme your wig to whatever you want, like a flower garden, a spider's condo, anything!! Use hot glue to add the goodies on it. Consider it a blank canvas.

There are gobs of options, but being supercrafty, I couldn't settle on an "as-is" version. Embellishment is the key. My inspiration comes from the band the B-52's, the artwork of SHAG and the fact that I've always wanted an excuse to wear a blond beehive to work. (Halloween is on a Tuesday.) The traditional way to create a beehive is to tease, tease, tease using a comb - but in the crafty world, a shortcut will do. This idea can be adapted to your own style.

When it comes to decorating, choose a theme such as sparkly brooches, a flower garden, an anime character, scary spiders or even minizoo animals. Think extreme. Wear a black cocktail dress - maybe some flirty lashes and chunky jewelry and you'll be set for the party. You can find basic wigs at any costume or party store, or you can buy a quality version at a local wig store.

Special thanks to Anna Marie of www.DeviousWigs .com for the wig tips. Sources for Fantasy Fiber include www.ArtGlitter.com.
Beehive Wig
Supplies
• 1 wig, long straight hair
• Embroidery floss, needle
• 1 piece of batting (24 by 6 inches) rolled up
• Foam wig head
• Teasing comb
• 1 can of Aqua Net hair spray
• 1 package Fantasy Fiber
• Hair clips
• Hot glue
• Embellishments for hair: gems, flowers, leaves, plastic insects, etc.
• Spray glitter

Directions: Move the hair away from the crown of the wig. Using the embroidery floss and needle and working from the inside of the wig, hand stitch on the roll of batting so it stands up on the outside of the wig. This will give your beehive proper shape. Slip the wig on the foam head. Use the comb to separate a layer of hair at the crown of the wig. Holding one chunk at a time, bring hair up and swirl it around the batting, using the Aqua Net as the adhesive. Repeat until the batting is covered and the wig looks complete. Take the Fantasy Fiber and stretch it in random places around the wig for an extra shiny look. Let it set until firm. Embellish using hot glue. Add whatever decorations you want, such as flowers, plastic insect, gems, etc. Add a light layer of spray glitter for a finished look. Let dry and then use.

Tip: Flatten your hair so the wig will fit your skull better.

Special thanks to Anna Marie from DeviousWigs.com for her help with htis project. Check out her web site, she is a wig artista!!!


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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween, wearable art

Pimp your porch with this fabric banner emblazoned with some nifty sparkly iron ons. I simply took 1/4 yard of black and orange fabric, cut them into triangles, inserted interfacting between sets of two, sewed the edges, added the iron-ons, and strung them together with ribbon hot glued across the top. Easy!



October puts a smile on faces of crafters around the globe. The month of black, orange, purple and lime- green launches the five-month-long art-a-palooza that encompasses Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas/Hanukkah/ Kwanzaa, New Year's and Valentine's Day. In the crafty universe, it is time to party while creating a crafty corner in our homes or bedrooms where we can leave all our art supplies out for ongoing use. To get you warmed up for the season, here is an idea for a porch or patio or even a family room. My inspiration for this hanging collection of fabric banners came from a colorful paper version strung across the ceiling at Lucky 15 Paper Arts, 4216 N. Seventh Ave., Phoenix. I opted for fabric and crystal iron-ons, but you can adapt these little flags to fit any theme or personality.

Crystal Gem Halloween Banner
Supplies
• 1 piece of typing paper cut into a 6- by 9- by 9-inch triangle (this will be your template)
• Pinking shears
• 1/4 yard of black cotton fabric, cut into five triangles
• 1/4 yard of orange cotton fabric, cut into five triangles
• 1/4 yard of interfacing, cut into five triangles
• Sewing machine and straight pins (or hot glue)
• Iron
• Tulip Halloween Iron- On Appliqués (available in T-shirt aisle at craft stores)
• 2 yards of black ribbon
• 2 yards of purple pompom fringe

Directions: Use your template and pinking shears to cut five triangles each from the black and the orange fabric, as well as the interfacing. Sort into sets for five triangles, preferably one orange and one black fabric piece per set. Insert one triangle-cut piece of interfacing between the fabric of each set. Sew each set around the sides, leaving the zigzag edges. On a flat surface, use the iron to apply appliqués to each outer side of the triangle according to package directions. Lay all the triangles in a row and pin the long strand of ribbon along the top to join them. Sew in place. If you do not want to sew, you can substitute hot glue. Apply fringe to the bottom of each triangle. Hang and enjoy!

Variations: Options to appliqués include iron-on letters, fabric paint and stencils, squeeze paint and foam stamps, or designs cut from printed fabric. If you want a longer banner, double the necessary supplies. You also can increase the template size for larger triangles.


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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

Ever since my daughter and I saw Corpse Bride, we knew exactly what her costume was going to be for Halloween!
Here is the end result of our vision. I'll have specific directions posted later, but for now I can say we took a thrift store wedding drees, soaked in the kitchen sink with 8 large tea bags, bought a wig, painted some blue on it and painted her arm like a skeleton. None of it did any good until we did her face - they key is in the eyebrows people! You gotta get that "curvy" thing down! Practice on paper first. Oh, and I added alight blue wash color to her skin using watered-down craft paint. I love it and so does Maya!

HERE ARE THE DIRECTIONS

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween, recycled

After going to all the trouble of assembling an award-worthy costume for your kids, it would be a crime to send them out trick-or-treating with a boring plastic pumpkin candy basket.

Go that extra step and whip up an adorable furry friend that serves a great purpose. These monster bags can be made in any size, only take a few minutes to assemble and will make a happy statement for collecting candy. Visit your local fabric store to find fur in all kinds of crazy colors to match almost any kind of outfit. And after Halloween has come and gone, they will make great accessories year-round, because monsters never go out of style. Elmo can vouch for that.

Supplies
1/2 yard of fluffy faux fur in desired color
Scissors
Straight pins
Sewing machine or fabric glue
White craft glue
Googly eyes
1/2 yard of thick ribbon (for strap or handles)

Directions: Cut two pieces of fur each measuring 12 by 12 inches. After making the cut, pull off any loose fur fibers. Line up the two pieces fur-side in and pin three sides in place. Sew around three sides, backstitching and the beginning and ending stitch. Trim excess fur around edges, along top of the seam. Measure desired length of ribbon to make strap. Sew each end of strap to the inner seam of bag through opening. Be sure to sew several seams around attached area to secure handles. Trim any hanging threads. Arrange eyes on bag and use white craft glue to attach them. Let bag dry before using.

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween, sewing, wearable art

This is a project I whipped up last year, but I love it so much that I'm sharing it again. Otra! Basically you are making a mask out of hot glue. you just drizzle it over... oh heck! Just click here to read the directions!

NOTE: More Halloween projects to come, keep checking back! I'd add the rest now but I'm sleepy and need to go to bed!

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

I can never leave good enough alone. I saw these originally crystal clear lanterns looking all sad and lonely on the store shelf. I walked by them and I could swear they whispered to me: "Embellish us wtih Gallery Glass squeeze paint!" So I did! And this is how I did it.

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

For under $10 bucks you can paintyour own Halloween or Day of the Dead lanterns. Check out Cost Plus Imports for some great deals! Here's how to do it.

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

Like everything else in life, you gotta sort the bad from the good. Sadly, even when it comes to Halloween candy. What else to do with those spongy orange fake peanut looking things. Ew. Here is a fun way to do the duty!

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

The countdown has begun. The candy bowl is filled, the costumes are ready and the decorations are strategically in place. However, one more little accent puts the icing on the cake: glow-in-the-dark tree ornaments.
Halloween is the perfect excuse to pick up a block or two of far-out glow-in-the-dark polymer clay. The colors even fit the occasion; it comes in orange, white, purple, green and yellow. Don't stress about time, because this project is as quick to put together as it is fun and will make your lawn glow with festive and innovative cheer. The clay goes a long way and even allows enough leftovers to make a chunky bracelet for your favorite trick-or-treater.
Glow-in-the-dark Tree Ornaments and Bracelets
Materials:
* Wood ornaments
* Drill
* Black or purple spray paint
* Sculpey polymer clay in assorted glow-in-the-dark colors
* Craft knife
* Ribbon
* Glue gun
Directions: Drill a hole at the top and bottom of ornament, then spray-paint to create a dark background. Cut out shapes from clay: pumpkin faces, ghosts, bats or words. Also create dots and other designs to use along the borders.
Make a smaller clay design to dangle from the bottom of wood ornament and make a hole at the top of the design to thread ribbon.
When finished, bake clay in oven according to package directions. Remove from oven and let cool. Use glue gun to attach designs to ornament. Thread ribbon at top of wood ornament for hanging and at bottom to attach dangling clay piece. Keep in bright light before hanging on trees.
Trick-or-treat bracelets: Pinch clay into half-inch pieces, roll into balls and make a hole through each with a wire hanger to make a bead. String them on black elastic cording and tie at the end. These are perfect for nighttime outdoor wear.

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

A lot of little things can make a big statement when grouped together. Take these small glass candle holders for example. I covered each one with something different - paper, beads, clay, etc...Lined up in a row, they look fabulous with the lights down.

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

Thrills and chills for your ghostly season!

Pumpkin Carving 101
Pumpkin Resources/Tips


Mason Jar Lanterns
Lanterns, Pins, Monogrammed Pumpkin
Edgy Eye Masks
Stained Glass Lanterns
Glow in the Dark Decor
Abstract Pumpkins
Candy Sorting Placemats
Halloween Candle Holders

Sparkly Halloween Banner

Beehive Wig

Corpse Bride Costume

Monster Candy Bags

Spooky Lanterns

Edgy Eye Masks

Painted Paper Lanterns




* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween

These are placemats I painted from regular blank canvas placemats I bought at the craft store. You know how after you are done trick-or-treating, you go home and do what? Sort the candy! Weed out the icky and offer it to your mom and safe the rest for the middle of night to nibble on!
* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Halloween