DIY Without Power Tools

How to Make an Optical Illusion Mirror (It’s Cool!)

Published on April 28, 2021Last updated October 11, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Turn a plain mirror into an optical illusion using these step-by-step instructions. Create your own door to a secret world. This mirror looks great at the end of a hallway or in a bedroom. If you … [Read more...]

How to Choose Plants for Miniature Gardens

Published on April 3, 2021Last updated October 4, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Want to create a miniature garden with living plants? This guide by expert Janit Calvo has all the information and resources you need to get started. Find out about the best plant choices, where to … [Read more...]

How To Make a Stone Birdhouse

Published on December 6, 2020Last updated October 5, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Make a decorative stone birdhouse for your garden with these step-by-step instructions. With the right adhesive, it can last outdoors for years. To make nesting boxes suitable for wild birds, see … [Read more...]

How to Clean Animal Bones for Display

Published on November 23, 2020Last updated October 5, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Ready to clean animal bones? This tutorial provides a clear, step-by-step process for bleaching and whitening bones—a final step in preparing degreased animal bones for display. For more posts on … [Read more...]

How to Make Pinecone Animals (Penguin, Owl, & Mouse)

Published on November 18, 2020Last updated October 5, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Turn pinecones into delightful pinecone animals with this tutorial. Instructions show how to create fun and festive penguin, owl, and mouse ornaments. If you enjoy working with natural materials, … [Read more...]

How To Preserve Leaves With Beeswax

Published on October 26, 2020Last updated October 26, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

This popular method preserves leaves by dipping them in melted beeswax. It's an excellent way to capture the beauty of fall leaf colors—red, orange, yellow, green, and gold—for use in crafts and … [Read more...]

How to Press Flowers—Fast & Traditional Methods

Published on October 18, 2020Last updated October 5, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will

Learn how to quickly press flowers and leaves using a microwave oven or iron, or use the traditional method with a flower press or heavy books. Includes 25 creative ways to use your pressed … [Read more...]