Brainwaves weekly issue 07: fun crafts to try at home

Well SPOTTED
I had an old duvet that I didn’t use any more, but I loved the animal print on it. So, I decided to make a dress out of it, using a plain T-shirt as the top. First, I cut the duvet into two identical squares, about 140cm each. I folded the squares to find the centre of them, then cut a hole to fit the width of the T-shirt. Then I placed the squares in a star shape and secured them with pins, before stitching the T-shirt into the hole. I think it looks great!
Liena Keistere, Hull, E Yorks

It’s a CORKER
I wanted to make something special for my friends when they got engaged, so I revamped a plain cork drinks coaster using some Scrabble tiles. I used the letters to spell out romantic words and then carefully stuck them on with craft glue, making sure they were all level. It looked great and was a thoughtful, home-made gift. I think it would be a nice thing to make for someone as a Valentine’s Day gift too.
Bailey McGuire, Cleethorpes, Lincs

Star JAR
I wanted somewhere to store the white sticky labels I use for various things around the house, so I found a jam jar that they fitted into perfectly. But it looked a bit boring, so I thought I’d jazz it up. I found some lace and created a rose shape by sewing it together, then I attached it to the lid with my glue gun. Now, I have a pretty and practical place to store my labels!
Ruth Graydon, Rotherham, S Yorks

Makes SCENTS
I wanted a scented candle, but the really nice ones cost so much. When a friend bought me a candle-making kit, I decided to add a few of my own creative touches to it. I added some of my own essential oils to the wax and, as it began to set, I sprinkled some pieces of rose quartz I had from a broken bracelet on the top. I also inscribed the word ‘love’ into the wax on the top with a pen. It’s much better than anything I could’ve bought in a shop, and it would make a great gift too.
Rachel Vaz, Wembley, Gtr London

Top of the POPS
If you’re giving money, tickets or a gift voucher as a present, roll them up and insert them into a deflated balloon, along with some confetti. Then blow the balloon up and tie it securely. The recipient can have fun popping the balloon to reveal their gift!
Debbie Jefferies, Torquay, Devon

Best BAR none
I wanted to make my husband Nick something special for our anniversary, which is also Valentine’s Day. He loves chocolate, so I made a card using the names of some of his favourite bars to convey the message. I enjoyed making it and it was a really inexpensive way to let him know how much I loved him. He quite enjoyed eating it too!
Natalie Ahmed, Nottingham