by Kathy Cano Murillo - Apr. 26, 2003 12:00 AM
The Arizona Republic

Last month for our House & Home section, I compiled a list of fun and easy projects to liven up a dull patio. While only one came with instructions, the other ideas were shown with photos. I've received numerous requests for directions on making the patio lights of small papier-mâché boxes, so here they are. Since then I have moved the lights from the patio into my bedroom, where they add a romantic and cozy touch.


Boudoir box lights

Supplies
1 strand of 24 minilights
12 papier-mâché boxes (3-inch diameter)
Assorted acrylic paints and brushes
3 sheets of vellum paper in desired design (12 inches by 12 inches each)
1 yard of beaded fringe
Scissors
Hot glue

Directions: Separate the lids from bottoms of the boxes and paint them in desired colors. Let dry. Cut the vellum paper into 3- by 12-inch strips. Use hot glue to affix one strip to the inside lip of each lid. Trim excess.

For bottoms of the boxes, cut beaded fringe into 3-inch long pieces and hot-glue one piece around the top edges so the fringe hangs down the sides of the box.

To hang, use scissors to poke a hole in the center of each of the tops and the bottoms of the boxes for the bulb to fit snuggly. Hang and enjoy!

Variation: Use other types of boxes such as small cereal, candy, or raisin boxes for a pop-culture twist.


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CLICK HERE to see my crafty videos at LifetimeTV.com!

Other links:
STORE * BOOK * T-SHIRTS * MY SPACE * FLICKR

* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: lights, paint, paper

Life is too short to go arond only wearing white sneakers. They're so cheap that anyone can afford to nab a set just to paint. I used regular acrylics and then added some squeeze paint, micro-glitter and I sealed it all with a brush-on varnish. I wouldn't suggest painting the rubber trim, it comes off very easy.
* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2005. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: kids, paint, wearable art

by Kathy Cano_Murillo - Mar. 6, 2004 12:00 AM
The Arizona Republic

If you are a crafter and haven't yet made a cigar-box purse, what are you waiting for?

Craft stores have a healthy supply of options when it comes to raw wood boxes, purse handles, hinges and latches. All it takes is embellishing the box to your liking and adding the hardware to make a sensational handbag.

But if you are like me and yearn for a funkier look, pick up a wood-burning tool at the same time. It's as easy as drawing with a pen, and leaves a rustic and charming look.
If the thought of using a heated tool makes you flinch, go the easy route and decoupage or paint your favorite images instead.

Wood-burned Box Purse

Supplies
1 wood box with latch and hinges
Design pattern, tracing paper, pencil
1 hand-held wood-burning tool
1 piece of sandpaper, medium grit
1 purse handle with hardware
Hand-held drill
Screwdriver
Watercolor paints, brush, cup of water
Brush- or spray-on sealant

Directions: Lightly sand the box on all sides. If you are using a pattern, use the tracing paper and pencil to apply the design to the box. If drawing freehand, start by lightly sketching on the design with a pencil. Heat up the wood burner and keep the sandpaper close by. Draw the design onto the box with the burner. Use the tip for fine lines or use it at an angle for broader strokes. Go over the design several times to achieve an even, smooth look. Every so often, remove the build-up on the tool by wiping it on the sandpaper. Fill in the design's spaces with the watercolor paints. Paint and decorate the inside of the box. Let dry and apply sealant to inside and outside of the box. Use the hand-held drill and screwdriver to attach the handle to the top.

Caution: The wood-burning tool is extremely hot and dangerous if not used with care. This project is not for young children. Read manufacturer instructions thoroughly before using.

Variations: Decorate the handle with beads, paint, wire or ribbon. Line the inside of the box with fabric. Add a vanity mirror on the lid. Instead of using the wood burner, decoupage or paint the box and add trim.


***
CLICK HERE to see my crafty videos at LifetimeTV.com!

Other links:
STORE * BOOK * T-SHIRTS * MY SPACE * FLICKR

* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: paint, wearable