Brainwaves weekly: crafts to do at home

As I was redecorating my bedroom I wanted to jazz up the mirrored wardrobe doors to match the decor. First I took a black permanent marker and carefully outlined the mirror to give it a border. Then I used strips of black insulation tape to create a grid effect. I think it makes a really striking feature, and it cost me next to nothing!Chloe Clark, Uddingston, S Lanarks

When I went on a long car journey, I needed to keep my daughter entertained in the backseat. However, I didn't want to pay £15 for a tablet holder, so I decided to make one myself. I cut two small holes in the top of a clear pencil case and threaded ribbon through to attach it to the car head-rest. Then I popped the tablet inside. It fitted perfectly and meant my daughter didn't get bored on the trip.Charlotte Palmer, Halstead, Essex

There was an awkward spot at the back of my house that needed some decoration, but I couldn't find anything suitable. So I dismantled an old pallet, cut the pieces down to size and nailed them together to create a set of shelves. I painted them, then mounted them on the wall. Finally, I added some plant pot hangers to create a little wall garden. It's brightened up an otherwise empty space.Beth Martin, Dunstable, Beds

After my husband Eric sorted through his wardrobe, he had lots of old shirts. Inspired by a craft book from my local library, I decided to revamp one of the shirts into an apron. First I cut off the sleeves. Then I used some of the sleeve material to create ties at the back. Finally, I hemmed the edges. It looks great — and now all my friends want a shirt apron too! Susan Joseph, Lydney, Glos

I wanted to make a tipi each for my dogs Molly and Juno. I formed a pyramid with four bamboo poles and secured it with twine. Then I measured each side of the tipi and cut four triangles out of cotton fabric, making sure I had enough to cover the poles too. Finally I sewed all the fabric together, leaving an entrance for the dogs, and slid it over the bamboo frame. Molly and Juno love sitting in them.Tara Collins, Caldicot, Mons

Old crisp packets can't be recycled — so I decided to make something with the empty wrappers. First I washed and dried them. Then I pressed them flat and stitched them together. Finally I added a cotton lining and handle. Now my daughter has the perfect reusable shopping bag. Hazel James, Abergele, Denbighs