Weekly Brainwaves: fun crafts to try at home

Check MATE
My husband had a long-
sleeved checked shirt that
he never wore. I suggested he
might like it better if had short
sleeves, so I cut off them off,
leaving enough to make a
hem. Rather than wasting the
leftover material, I turned it
into a pair of very dapper
trousers for my grandson’s
teddy bear. Now, my hubby
likes his new shirt and
hopefully my grandson will
enjoy his teddy’s new clothes!
Patsy Kirk, Chaddesden, Derbys

BRANCH out
When my husband chopped
down a tree in our garden, I decided
to use some of the wood. So I planed a
piece, engraved my name into it, and
varnished it. Then I used a smaller piece
to create a stand and voila! A perfect,
personalised bracelet holder.
Jane Cooper, Great Torrington, Devon

Mucky PUPS
When we got our dog, I tried so many
different mats and stands for her
bowls to stop the mess getting on the
floor, but none of them worked.
So then I had a much better idea.
I bought a deep baking tray and popped
her bowls in that. Now, any spillage goes
into the tray, leaving my floors mess-free!
Pamela Holden, St Helens, Merseyside

Smalls MERCIES
I had a broken umbrella but rather
than bin it, I removed the cover, which
was still intact, then put it over my laundry
hanger. It means I can still put my smalls
out to dry — even if it’s raining! A recycled
brolly and dry washing are definitely a win, win!
Lesley Lea, Axminster, Devon

Essential TOILS
Instead of using shop-bought polishing
sprays to dust surfaces, I use a damp
cloth and sprinkle some essential oils on to it.
Just a few drops is enough to give my house
a lovely scent, while the damp cloth lifts any
dust. And the great thing is, I can change the
fragrance every time, swapping lemon for lavender,
or ginger for chamomile, depending on my mood!
Carol MacLean, Helensburgh, Argyll & Bute