31 Ways to Partake in National Craft Month

In 1994, the Craft & Hobby Association created this wonderful celebration that we know as National Craft Month. In the beginning, it was designed to help people rediscover their creativity and learn about the wonderful world of crafting and all of it's many benefits. (Of course, craft month is every month for us.) 

With this technique, the possibilities are almost endless: embellish any fabric with just a few stitches. Hone your appliqué skills with a stylish pair of flats, a bedazzled beanie, or this cardigan with beaded rhinestone appliqués.

Crochet your way to a lightweight tote bag, a zip-up pouch, or a cozy baby blanket with these basic stiches. It takes a little practice to get the hang of working with crochet hooks, but the final product will absolutely be worth it.

Soon, you'll be tricking everyone who won't believe that what they think is a painted design is actually paper. Decoupage practically anything and turn the ordinary into extraordinary. 

We all love finding that perfect new shade of lipstick, but sometimes we prefer to know exactly what we're putting on our skin. That's why we love making our own beauty products — you can look beautiful in your personal lipstick, balm, scrub, etc. Try making this lip balm to get lip-softening relief right in your pocket.

Transform everyday items into something new and exciting with dye. We love a good tie-dye t-shirt but did you know dye can also be used to transform your place mats, jewelry and stationary as well?

Give your favorite accessories a whole new look, add a personal touch to a handmade gift, or embellish something just for added flair! A few stitches here, a few stitches there, and you'll be looking fabulous and chic in no time.

Showcase your favorite photos or artwork in full display by crafting the perfect frame. Discover countless ways to enhance store bought frames and start creating your own!

A neck scarf? A blanket? A headband? There's no better way to spend a relaxing day at home than knitting. Learn how to cast on, stitch, and purl like a pro in no time.

Who knew that glass etching was so easy? We're going to let you in a on a little secret... all you need is etching cream to create this frosted glass effect — no heavy tools required. We even made our own cream just for you to use. 

There are so many materials to choose from when it comes to making your own jewelry: beads, string, fabric appliques, even recycled materials! So why not let your creativity flow and make some of your own handmade jewelry? (Psst, they also make lovely gifts!)

Who said fresh floral bouquets were the only way to enjoy nature? Dry your fresh flowers and leaves to preserve their beauty forever. They make a lovely embellishment for cards, wreaths, bookmarks, and more.

There's so much more beyond origami. The art of folding paper is exquisite, from paper boxes to paper hearts, this technique allows you to create beautiful things with just a few folds. Add a bit of flair to your household plants with this origami planter cover, which are ready to use in just a few simple steps. 

With the simple stroke of a paintbrush, you can transform an ordinary object — a placemat, a swatch of fabric, a pumpkin, a blank wall — into something of wonder.

It's a handy technique that can be applied to almost any project at any time of the year. Think Easter baskets, pinatas, cake toppers, and handmade toys!

Quilling is the art of creating intricate shapes from strips of paper. The technique is simple once you get the hang of it and creates magnificent three-dimensional works of art like these handmade-quilled cards. 

Revisit old memories and collage them together to never forget that amazing trip you took. No one else will forget that trip either, after being captivated by the one-of-a-kind piece of art you now own. 

Create beautiful and delicious smelling soap with these soap-making techniques. Great for gifts or for some self-indulgence, who doesn't love things that are pretty and practical?

Who doesn't love bundling up in a cozy, welcoming coverlet? Not to mention, one that you made yourself? Make your own contemporary, one-of-a-kind quilt.