Watch video tutorial

What are waterslide decals?

Waterslide decals are thin sheets of decal paper that are backed with water-activated adhesive. This adhesive is what allows the decal to be applied to surfaces. They’ve been around for years and have been super popular in the hobby/model world. Crafters have recently taken a liking to them because they are versatile and able to be created with just a few supplies.

Waterslide decals are perfect for customizing dog treat holders because they’re easy to use, and you can create any design you want. Plus, they’ll make your treat holder look unique and stylish.

Supplies you need to make waterslide decals

• Waterslide Paper – There are a number of options for waterslide decal paper but they definitely aren’t all created equal. I was super happy with the quality of Hiipoo Waterslide Decal Paper. The colors printed vibrantly and the adhesive worked perfectly. They have both clear decal paper and white decal paper.
• Inkjet Printer – I may sound like a broken record but I seriously adore the Epson EcoTank ET-8550! The quality of the print is like no other home printer I’ve used (and believe me, I’ve used a ton!) and I love that it prints as large as 13″ x 19″. Plus, since it’s an EcoTank, I don’t have to replace cartridges as frequently.
• Cricut Digital Cutting Machine – depending on the complexity of your waterslide decal design, you may want to leave the trimming to a professional – your Cricut! I used the medium cardstock setting to cut out my decals.
• Cricut Design Space is a great option for different designs you can print onto waterslide paper.
• Looking for the font I used in this project? It’s called “Monica” and I got it from FontBundles.
• Want to design your own water decals from scratch? I’ve used Adobe Illustrator for years and still absolutely love it!

Objects to Add Waterslide Decals To

• Glass jars
• Coffee mugs
• Vases
• Phone cases
• Laptops
• notebooks
• picture frames
• Candles
• The possibilities are endless!

How to make a waterslide decal dog treat holder

1. Choose your waterslide decals: The first step is to choose the waterslide decals you want to use. You can find waterslide decals online or at your local craft store. If you can’t find the perfect design, you can always create your own!
2. Seal with acrylic coating spray: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to apply the spray. You’ll be doing three coats of spray, allowing for drying time in between each coat.
3. Apply the waterslide decals: Once you’ve chosen your waterslide decals, it’s time to apply them to your dog treat holder. Trim off the excess material, leaving at least 1/4″ around the printed section. Submerge in water for 30 – 60 seconds or until the paper backing slides off easily. Place on the surface and gently wipe away excess water with fingers and paper towels.
4. Dry decal: Allow the decal to dry for at least three hours. Depending on the surface material, you may be able to shorten the dry time by placing it in an oven at the temperature of 100-110 °C / 212-230°F for 10-15 minutes.
5. Fill your dog treat holder: Now that your waterslide decal dog treat holder is complete, it’s time to fill it with treats! Your dog will love their new custom treat holder, and you’ll love how easy it was to make.

Tips for making your waterslide decal designs

You can always create your waterslide decal designs if you’re feeling creative! Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Waterslide decals are a great way to add a personal touch to any project, and they’re perfect for customizing dog treat holders. You can find waterslide decals online or at your local craft store, and there are no limits to what you can create. Get creative and have fun!

Want an Outdoor Easel but don’t want to spend major bucks on it? I don’t blame you! Make one for yourself with just the most basic of woodworking tools. Don’t have a saw or a way to get the boards home? If you ask really nicely, the people at your local home store will probably do the cuts for you!

First things first, download the Outdoor Easel Plans (download below) and purchase necessary supplies. Follow the “Suggested Cuts” diagrams on the first page to get the most out of your purchase!  You may have all the wood you need from scrap material (lucky you!). If so, just measure and cut the appropriate sizes.

As far as construction goes, follow the diagram on the second page to assemble the frame, leaving the top 24″ board off. Attach the mitered quarter rounds with either small nails or wood glue (never mind that edges aren’t mitered in the picture above!). Slide the plexiglass sheet in place and secure in place by screwing in the top 24″ board. All you have to do now is attach the legs and then you’re done!

Now comes the fun part! My kids have used tons of different supplies to make art on their easel, including:

•  DecoArt Team Spirit Writers
• Finger Paint
• Dry Erase Crayons
• Dry Erase Markers

And we’re always on the hunt for  more! I’m even planning on taping up worksheets for my 4 year old to work on this Summer. Nothing like bringing the classroom outdoors!

The great thing about this easel is that when your kids are done and they’ve moved on to their next adventure for the day, all you have to do is wipe down the plexiglass with water and a cloth, push up the legs and store for next time!

Also, if anything happens to the plexiglass (which, with my two boys and their three boy cousins, I’m almost counting on!), you can remove the top, slide out the old plexiglass, and easily replace it with a new one.

Hope your kids enjoy their Outdoor Easel just as much as ours do!!

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience and to assist in the maintenance of this site.

Rainbow Bunny Peeps® Wreath

Materials:

•  Peeps® Bunnies (5 Color Sampler Pack)
• 10″ Styrofoam Wreath
• Toothpicks
• Pink Burlap Ribbon
• Floral Pin

Step One. Ok, peeps, this isn’t rocket science but there are a few hints that will make this project so much easier and enjoyable. First one: Completely remove the wrappers and let the Peeps® dry out for a couple days before making the wreath. They’ll be much easier to work with if they’re not so sticky!

Step Two. Next hint? Use two toothpicks per bunny to secure in place. This will prevent them from spinning on a single point and shifting on the wreath.

Step Three. Continue placing the bunnies in a circle around the front and outer edge of wreath. Once completed, fill in the center ring with vertically placed bunnies.

Step Four. Tie a large bow out of the burlap ribbon and insert a floral pin in the back. Secure in place at the top of the wreath.

And that’s it, your super “sweet” wreath is good to go!

In the past, a few people have mentioned that heat or humidity have caused some of the Peeps® to fall off. If this is a problem, just dab a bit of glue to where the toothpick meets the sugary surface.

Another issue that has been brought up in the past is the ant factor. I would highly suggest a couple coats of clear spray varnish if you know ants are a problem where you live.

More Tried & True Peeps® Wreaths:

Here’s an even easier Peep Wreath:

There are some days that I like to create practical and useful projects…and then there are days like today. Sure, this Handmade Whale Clay Pot is a little bit silly but totally necessary if you love anything whale related! 

Made with air-dry clay, you can either use a artificial succulent like I did or form around a removable clay pot and use a real plant. I purposely made my pot small so that I could finish it in about 15 minutes (without drying time) but you can adjust this project to make it any size!

Print

Whale Clay Pot

Use air dry clay to make this adorable Whale Clay Pot for World Whale Day!

Total Time 15 minutes

Servings 1 whale pot

Author Vanessa Brady

Cost $15

Ingredients

• 1 artificial succulent
• 1 pkg Crayola Model Magic blue
• 1 2" Styrofoam Ball

Instructions

• Grab a portion of the clay and roll out flat. To make a mini whale planter like mine, cut a 3" sized oval from the flattened clay.
  
• Roll out another section of clay and cut to create a tail shape. Place at the end of the oval and support from underneath.
  
• Form a long strip of rolled clay approx. 2? tall and 12? wide. (You may need to press two strips together to achieve the length) Position the strip onto the side of the oval base. Trim and press around the tail.
  
• Crease the top edge and press to smooth to create whale body.
  
• Use a sharp craft knife to carefully cut a mouth at the base of the whale and a sharp point to create eye. Follow manufacture instructions to dry completely. (Don't forget to prop up the tail so it dries in place!)
  
• Now that your whale has hardened completely, cut your styrofoam ball in half in carefully press into the whale clay pot. Apply hot glue to the top of the ball and press moss in place.
  
• Push artificial succulent in place and enjoy your adorable Whale Clay Planter!
  

I love how the succulent looks like water being sprayed from this Whale Clay Pot’s “blowhole!” This project is the epitome of whimsical and since it only takes about 15 minutes to make, you don’t have to worry about wasting too much time. Hope you have a whale of a good time making one!

Find out more about World Whale Day here!

Don’t forget to pin for later!

Want more fun projects?

Animal Fabric Box

Cute Halloween Free Stickers

Happy Days Gift Bag

Easter Bunny Macarons

Animal Bean Bags

Animal Face Masks

Just something about a new year makes me want to organize every space in our house. Usually, that urge slowly dissipates if I just wait long enough (mid-February). This year I decided to act on those impulses and organize a room that desperately needed it…the pantry!

I’ve collected glass jars from thrift stores and estate sales for years. Making labels for them has always been on my “To Do” list since I’m the only one who knows what each jar is filled with.

Cricut Joy to the rescue!

Now that I’ve got a cute little Cricut Joy in the same room, making Customizable Pantry Labels is super easy! I found some pantry labels in Design Space that I liked but needed a few custom ones.

Luckily for me, Design Space also had me covered! All I had to do was contour out the original wording and icon and replace it with the new ones. Ta-da! My custom Chile de Arbol and Sushi Rice labels were ready!

I used black permanent Smart Vinyl to make cutting these super easy! I inserted the vinyl into my Cricut Joy and had custom pantry labels a few minutes later.

Of course, you don’t have to use the Cricut Joy for this project. Any of the Explore machines or Maker will also do the job!

You can find this Pantry Label Project in Cricut Design Space. Don’t forget to follow me for more Cricut inspiration!

Don’t forget to pin for later!

Want more fun projects? Click on any of the images below to open a new tab!

Cleaning Labels

Beard Oil

Made With Love Stickers

Father’s Day Printable Card

Homemade Mosquito Repellent

Inspirational Black Canvas Art

I’ve got to admit that I’ve been kind of scared of cutting glass. The image of glass shards flying everywhere has freaked me out for years.

But not anymore!

I used a crazy old glass cutting tool from the 60’s (Seriously. I’ll share pics of the box on my IG. It’s hilarious!) so I’m sure improvements have been made to make this Recycled Self Watering Planter DIY even easier! (Kinda crushing on this one I found!)

Once you get past the fear of glass cutting, this cute little planter is a breeze to make. I added a bit of colorful vinyl from Cricut to celebrate Pride during the month of June and always. You can find this “Love is Love” cut in Design Space.

I’m even planning on picking up a couple more of these large Hubert’s Lemonade bottles at Target so that I can have more social action planters everywhere. How amazing would “Black Lives Matter” and “Families Belong Together” planters look?!

Recycled Self Watering Planter DIY Tutorial

Print

Recycled Self Watering Planter DIY

Make this self-watering planter with just a few supplies and a recycled glass bottle.

Total Time 30 minutes

Servings 1 planter

Author Vanessa Brady

Cost $5

Ingredients

• Clean Glass Bottle (I used a 40 oz. bottle of Hubert's Lemonade)
• Glass Cutting Kit
• Cricut Digital Cutting Machine
• Colorful Vinyl
• Cotton String
• Dremel

Instructions

• Begin by removing the label of your bottle. Hint: Use lemon essential oil!
  
• Follow the instructions included in your bottle cutting kit to cut the top section of the bottle. If you're using a Hubert's Lemonade bottle, I went down approx. 4".
  
• Making sure you're using the correct eye protection, tap the inside of the glass until the bottle separates along the carved line.
  
• Use sandpaper to smooth the edges. Or better yet: use a Dremel to get the edges super smooth!
  
• Use your Cricut to cut out the "Love Is Love" file found on Design Space.
  
• Punch a hole in the top of the lid with an awl or sharp tool. Fold an 10" piece of cotton string in half and push through hole. Tie a knot to prevent it from slipping out. Pull string upward so that half of it is above the lid.
  
• Fill the top portion with soil and place on the lower section filled halfway with water. Enjoy!
  

Alternative Uses

Of course, there are so many ways to customize this tutorial! I loved the size of this large lemonade glass but you could also use the smaller version for a more compact planter.

This seriously is the perfect way to put some of those glass bottles you haven’t recycled yet to good use!

Don’t forget to tag me if you share on IG. Love seeing your creations!

Want more fun recycling-themed projects?

• Earth Day Recycled Tin Can Planters
• Recycled Houses
• Mother’s Day Song Scarf
• Father’s Day T-Shirt Free Cutting File

I am a huge Harry Potter fan and now that I have kids that love the books, we’re a whole family of crazy Potterheads. That’s why, when I saw this triangle canvas, I knew exactly what I was going to make with it…a Harry Potter Deathly Hallows Watercolor!

Disclaimer: I am by no means a professional watercolor artist. In fact, this is the first time I’ve worked with this medium so if you see me doing something wrong, that’s why. Alternately, you know that if I could make this watercolor art look somewhat good, anyone can!

Watch this easy tutorial or follow instructions below:

Print

Harry Potter Watercolor Art

Use beginner watercolor techniques to make this Harry Potter Watercolor Art for any room!

Total Time 2 hours

Servings 1 Canvas

Author Vanessa Brady

Cost $15

Ingredients

• 1 Triangle Canvas Panel – 12 in
• Liquid Watercolor Paint various colors
• Paintbrush
• Cricut Digital Cutting Machine
• Stencil Vinyl
• Deathly Hallows Free SVG (download below)
• Refillable Watercolor Brush

Instructions

• Use your Cricut to cut the free Deathly Hallows free svg from the stencil vinyl. Use transfer tape to apply it to the canvas. If your stencil isn't adhering really well (don't want the liquid watercolor to seep under), use a heating tool (or blow dryer) to melt the adhesive a bit and then quickly press in place.
  
• Use paintbrush to apply a thin layer of water over the exposed areas of canvas.
  
• Fill the refillable watercolor brush with water and dip into the first watercolor. Gently apply pressure to the brush to apply color to the canvas. You may want to practice a bit on a spare canvas or paper until you get a feel for the brush. Continue applying colors until all the lines are filled.
  
• If you end up with large pools of watercolor (which totally happened to me!), take a piece of paper towel and soak up some of the excess. Just make sure not to sweep the paper across your canvas or all the colors will mix. Allow this first layer of watercolor to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
  
• With the base layer of color down, now you can add additional splats of color to the Harry Potter Watercolor Art. Allow this second layer of watercolor to dry completely.
  
• With the paint dry, you can now remove the stencil vinyl!
  
• Optional: I really like the look of adding a few additional watercolor spots outside of the lines but it's totally optional!
  

It’s LeviOsa, not LevioSA

Contrary to what Hermione may thing, there’s no “right” way to make this Harry Potter watercolor art. No two pieces will ever be the same. The way the watercolors mix on any given day will be different from the next. Yay for totally original art!

I went with bright colors to make this canvas but how fun would it be to make one with the colors of each house? Or use blue and yellow watercolor with a Ravenclaw crest stencil? So many possibilities!

Hope you enjoy making this Harry Potter Watercolor Art! Don’t forget to tag me on social media. I can’t wait to see how you make this project all your own!

More fun projects?

• Nuts & Bolts Silhouette Art
• “Now We Have Everything” Nursery Art
• Love and Laundry Coloring Page
• Love and Laundry Coloring Page
• Cute Animal Face Masks

You may have noticed that black canvas art is huge right now. From long rectangular canvas to small square ones, inspirational sayings look amazing on black canvas!

Of course, as with every new trend, these inspirational art panels can often come with quite the hefty price tag. No worries, though, you can easily make your own with this super easy tutorial!

Necessary Supplies

Let’s talk about the supplies you’ll need to make an Inspirational Black Canvas Art. One of the most important materials is quality Iron-On Transfer Paper for Dark Fabrics. Notice how I added “quality” to the sentence above? I’m always up for a good deal but when it comes to transfer paper, you pay for what you get!

I got the Iron-On Transfer Paper I used for this project from OnlineLabels.com and love how solid it covers over the black canvas. Honestly, I love the high quality of all their products so it makes sense that their transfer paper is great too!

You can find black canvases at most craft stores and online. I got this 12″ x 12″ panel from Consumer Crafts. I love that store! Also, you’ll need some sort of iron or heat press to adhere the vinyl to the canvas. I loved using my Cricut EasyPress Mini! It allowed me to work on each of the small elements of this image one at a time without overheating any part.

Tutorial

Print

Inspirational Black Canvas Art

Make this easy Inspirational Black Canvas Art with just a few supplies. Perfect for a kids nursery or any other room in your house!

Total Time 1 hour

Servings 1 canvas

Author Vanessa Brady

Cost $10

Ingredients

• 1 12" x 12" Black Canvas
• 1 sheet Iron-On Transfer Paper for Dark Fabric
• EasyPress Mini
• Free "Reach for Stars" Template (optional, download below)
• BrightPad (optional)

Instructions

• The first step is deciding on the image you want to put on the black canvas. If you're using your own design, just draw on top of the transfer paper with a black marker. If you'd like to use my "Reach for Stars" design, use a window or a BrightPad to trace it onto the transfer paper with a marker.
  
• Using a pair of sharp scissors, cut out all the design elements, making sure to cut inside of the black line. Position the design in place on black canvas. Working one at a time, remove the paper backing from each piece.

  I will warn you that removing the back can be kind of tricky. I suggest pulling on one corner of the transfer paper until the paper tears and then pulling up on that.
  
• Place a protective sheet or thin fabric over cut-out image and iron according to the Transfer Paper instructions. I set my EasyPress Mini to the medium setting and pressed each cut-out for only a few seconds.
  

Reach for the Stars

I hope you enjoy making your own Inspirational Black Canvas Art! As long as your design isn’t too intricate, it’s a super easy way to make an awesome piece of art that will look great in any room.

If you want to cut a more complicated design, I highly suggest getting a Cricut Explore Air 2 or Cricut Maker instead of cutting with scissors. I promise, your hands will thank you!

Please tag me on social media if you decide to try this project. Love seeing all your projects!

More Fun Projects

• Faux Stone Jewelry with Polymer Clay
• All Star Father’s Day Travel Pouch
• Laundry Room Change Jar
• Cup of Tea Print
• Embroidered Custom Canvas Prints

Today’s CRAFTWEEK post is sponsored by Mod Podge and contains affiliate links. Make sure to stop by my Instagram to enter the giveaway!

I have a basket full of cute disposable napkins that I couldn’t resist but can’t figure out what to craft with them. These Easter Bunny Decoupage Coasters are the perfect way to put them to good use!

I’m using some light and airy, Spring-themed napkins but this tutorial can be used for any theme! Wouldn’t some nautical napkins be perfect for the Summer?!

Supplies

• Mod Podge Hard Coat
• Unfinished Hexagon Wood Coasters
• Cute Napkins (Meri Meri is one of my favorite brands!)
• Mod Podge Paint Brush Applicator (or any other paint brush)
• Folk Art Paint (Coral & White)

Instructions

Apply base layer of paint to all coasters. I painted coral and white on the bunny coasters and just white on the flower ones. Remember that the napkins are extremely thin and will show whatever color they have underneath them.

Once paint has dried completely, apply first coat of Mod Podge. Don’t apply this layer too thick or you’ll get some bubbles and folding. Separate the layers of the napkins to a single printed sheet.

Apply Mod Podge to the sides and press tissue down. I cut the corners so that it would lay flat.

Once the first layer is dry, apply another coat of Mod Podge over the entire coaster. Allow to dry completely before using!

Using the Easter Bunny Decoupage Coasters

Aren’t these Easter Bunny Decoupage Coasters the cutest? I can’t wait to use them during our Easter brunch!

More CRAFTWEEK Decoupage Projects

More T&T Creative Projects

• Inside Out Emotion Box
• You Are Perfect Free Coloring Print
• How To Fake Frosted Glass
• Peep Easter Wreath Tutorial
• Speckled Egg Wreath

Today’s CRAFTWEEK post is sponsored by Xyron and contains affiliate links. Make sure to stop by my Instagram to enter the giveaway!

We’ve finally decided on a theme for my daughter’s room…Harry Potter’s Forbidden Forest! Think forest trees, animals, and, of course, a few wands thrown in for good luck. I’ll totally be hanging a version of this Woodland Creatures Nursery Paper Mobile!

Check out more CRAFTWEEK tutorials below!

Supplies Needed

• Faux Birch Branches
• Woodland Forest Animals Die Cut
• Foliage Die Cut
• Natural Cording
• Xyron Creative Station Lite (or Create-A-Sticker)
• Plastic Canvas Needle
• Cardstock
• Gemini Die Cutting Machine

Instructions for Woodland Creatures Nursery Paper Mobile

Take one of the faux birch branches and fold gently in half. Cut another branch with scissors and wire cutters to fit between the folded branch and hot glue in place.

Use a die cutting machine to cut your leaves and creatures out of four different colors of cardstock. I went with a pink/cream/chartreuse/gray combo but you can totally choose any colors you want. Perfect for matching any decor!

Layout all the shapes in the order you want them hanging from the branch. This just may be the most difficult part but once you’re happy with the look, run half of the shapes through your Xyron machine.

Remember that you’re going to sandwich the natural cording in between two die cuts to create the Woodland Creatures Nursery Paper Mobile.

Once all the animals are strung up, use a long needle to thread the string through the top branch. Secure with a knot and cut away any excess string.

The final step is just to add a decorative bow to the top of the Woodland Creatures Paper Mobile. Totally optional but totally cute!

Hanging Your Nursery Paper Mobile

I love that the faux birch branches have a bit of “moss” on them! Really adds to the realistic look of this Woodland Creatures Paper Mobile. I can’t wait to get working on one of these for my daughter’s Harry Potter/Forbidden Forest room!

More CRAFTWEEK Projects!

More T&T Creative Projects!

• Recycled 4th of July Centerpieces
• Handmade Whale Clay Pot
• Super Easy Tassel Tutorial
• Metal Flower Tutorial
• 100 Free Printables You Will Love!