ashby-arts-festival

Pipe Cleaner Christmas Tree

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 16:01:29 GMT

Pipe Cleaner Christmas Tree

Bring a bit of handmade magic into your home this season with this adorable pipe cleaner tree! It’s easy enough for kids (with a bit of grown-up help for the hot glue part) and makes a fab table centrepiece or decoration.

�� You’ll need:

Green pipe cleaners (different shades if you like)
A piece of card or thick paper
Hot glue gun or strong craft glue
Scissors
(Optional) Star topper, sequins or beads to decorate

�� Step-by-step:

Make your cone base
Take your card or thick paper and roll it into a cone shape. Secure it with tape or glue, then trim the bottom so it stands flat.
Prep your pipe cleaners
Cut your green pipe cleaners into smaller lengths (around 4–6cm each). Bend them in half into little loops to create a layered, branch-like look.
Start gluing from the bottom
Using a hot glue gun (adults only!), attach the folded pipe cleaners starting at the bottom of the cone. Work your way up in circles, slightly overlapping as you go to give a full tree look.
Build to the top
Keep adding rows of pipe cleaner loops until you reach the tip of your cone. The tighter you space them, the fluffier your tree!
Decorate!
Add a star on top, sprinkle on some glitter, or stick on tiny beads to mimic baubles. Make it your own!

Autumnal Lanterns – Cosy Crafting at Home

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 09:45:55 GMT

Autumnal Lanterns

Welcome the changing season with this warm and creative home activity! ��✨
Perfect for kids and adults alike, these autumnal lanterns will bring a soft, glowing charm to your evenings.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Clean mason jars (any size will do!)
PVA glue (no need for Mod Podge)
Sponge brush or paintbrush
Fake autumn leaves (available at most craft stores)
Twine or ribbon (optional, for extra flair)
Battery-operated tea lights (for safety)

How to make your lantern:

Clean your jar – Make sure the surface is dry and free of any labels or glue.
Apply glue – Use a sponge brush or paintbrush to apply a thin layer of PVA glue to the outside of the jar.
Add leaves – Gently press your fake autumn leaves onto the glued areas. Overlap them for a layered, textured effect.
Seal it – Once your leaves are placed, brush another layer of glue over the top to secure and seal them in place.
Let it dry – Set your jar aside to dry completely.
Finishing touches – Tie a little twine or ribbon around the top of the jar if you’d like.
Light it up! – Pop in a battery-operated tealight and enjoy the cosy glow!

These lanterns are a lovely way to decorate your home during the autumn months, and they make beautiful handmade gifts too. ��

We’d love to see your versions – tag us @ashbyartsfestival or use the hashtag #AshbyArtsFestival to be featured!

��️ Happy crafting!

DIY Painted Plant Pots

millie@kangaroouk.com (Millie Rowe) — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:45:38 GMT

Revitalize your indoor or garden plants with beautifully painted pots. This simple DIY project is perfect for adding a personal touch to your home décor.

Materials Needed:

Terracotta pots
Acrylic paints
Paintbrushes
Painter’s tape (for designs)
Clear sealant

Step-by-Step Guide:

Prep Your Pots: Clean your pots thoroughly and let them dry. This ensures the paint adheres properly.
Design Your Pots: Use painter’s tape to create geometric designs or freehand with a pencil for floral patterns.
Paint: Apply your chosen acrylic paints. For best results, use two coats, letting them dry between applications.
Seal the Paint: Once the paint is dry, apply a clear sealant to protect your design from water and wear.
Finishing Touches: Remove any painter’s tape and touch up as needed.

Conclusion: These DIY painted plant pots are not only fun to make but also make great gifts or stylish additions to any room. Get creative and transform your space today!

Enjoy your crafting journey with this eco-friendly project that brightens both your home and your spirits. Happy painting!

DIY Rope Star Mirror

millie@kangaroouk.com (Millie Rowe) — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:45:22 GMT

DIY Rope Star Mirror

Add a nautical twist to your home decor with this easy DIY Rope Star Mirror. Perfect for bringing a bit of coastal charm indoors, this project is simple enough for beginners and can be completed in an afternoon.

Materials Needed:

Circular mirror
Thick natural fiber rope
Hot glue gun
Scissors
Star template (optional for guidance)

Step-by-Step Guide:

Prepare Your Workspace: Clear a flat area and have all materials handy. A heat-resistant surface is ideal for using a hot glue gun.
Create the Star Shape: If using a template, place your star design around the mirror to plan out the rope placement. If not, freehand the design by forming your rope into a star shape directly on your work surface.
Attach the Rope: Cut your rope into lengths that fit each segment of the star. Carefully glue one piece at a time, starting from the top point of the star and working your way around.
Secure the Mirror: Once your star frame is complete, attach the mirror to the center using hot glue. Ensure it is firmly in place.
Final Touches: Trim any frayed edges of the rope for a clean finish. Optionally, add a hanging mechanism on the back.

Conclusion: Your new Rope Star Mirror is ready to enhance any room with its unique, handcrafted look. It’s an eye-catching piece that’s sure to garner compliments from guests!

This project not only allows you to create a stunning decorative piece but also adds a personal touch to your home décor. Enjoy the process of making something beautiful and functional!

Diy snowy mason jar

millie@kangaroouk.com (Millie Rowe) — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 11:43:33 GMT

How to Make a Festive Snowy Mason Jar

Craft a beautiful, snowy mason jar to brighten up your home this holiday season. This simple and elegant craft is perfect for adding a touch of winter charm to any space.

Materials Needed:

Glass mason jar
Epsom salt
White or translucent glitter
PVA glue
Sponge brush
Twine or ribbon
A small piece of greenery (like holly or evergreen)
Hot glue gun
Flameless tea light (optional)

Steps:

Prepare Your Jar: Clean your jar thoroughly and dry it to ensure the glue adheres properly.
Apply Glue and Salt: Using the sponge brush, apply a thin layer of PVA glue around the outside of the jar. Sprinkle or roll the jar in Epsom salt mixed with glitter until fully covered. Allow it to set.
Decorate the Jar: Wrap twine or ribbon around the neck of the jar for a rustic look. Use the hot glue gun to secure it in place and add a piece of greenery for a festive touch.
Add Lighting: For a magical glow, place a flameless tea light inside the jar.

Conclusion: This DIY snowy mason jar is not only a great addition to your holiday decor but also makes a fantastic gift. Enjoy the warmth and beauty it brings to your festive celebrations!

How to Make Homemade Gingerbread Gift Bags

millie@kangaroouk.com (Millie Rowe) — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 14:42:25 GMT

Transform your gift-giving this holiday season with homemade gingerbread gift bags. These delightful bags are not only charming but also a creative way to personalize presents.

Materials Needed:

Brown craft paper bags
White, red, and green paint pens
Scissors
Ruler

Steps :

Prepare Your Bag:

Begin by cutting the corners off the top of your craft paper bags to create a house shape.

Design Your Gingerbread House:

Lightly sketch the design of your gingerbread house on the bag, focusing on elements like doors and windows.

Add Details with Paint Pens:

Use white paint pens to trace over your sketches. Highlight areas such as the roof, windows, and door to mimic icing. Red and green pens can add additional festive details like wreaths and candy canes.
You might need to apply a few layers of paint to achieve vibrant colors.

Enhance with Further Decorations:

Add final touches around the windows and doors, and perhaps border the roof edges for a finished look.

These Gingerbread House Gift Bags are not only fun to make but also add a special touch to your holiday gift-giving. They're perfect for small presents and can even be used as delightful decor around the home.

Now, your gifts will stand out with a personal, crafted touch that's sure to delight. Enjoy crafting and happy holidays!

DIY Snowman Ornament with Polymer Clay and Fabric Scraps

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 15:40:15 GMT

Brighten up your Christmas tree with a delightful handmade snowman ornament. Here's a simple guide on how to create this festive decoration using everyday materials.

Materials Needed:

Polymer clay
Fabric scraps
Salt
Twigs
Peppercorns
Clear ball ornament
Twine

Instructions:

Craft the Features:

Mould the polymer clay into small carrot noses and tiny arms. Follow the instructions on the packaging to oven-bake the clay. Ensure you use a separate tray or line it with aluminium foil.

Assemble the Snowman:

Cut your fabric scraps into tiny scarves, measuring approximately 1/4" x 2".
Fill the clear ball ornament with about two tablespoons of salt.
Gently add the baked clay features, twigs for arms, fabric scarf, and peppercorns for the eyes, buttons, and mouth.

Final Touches:

Secure a piece of twine to the top of the ornament for hanging.

This charming DIY snowman ornament not only adds a personal touch to your Christmas décor but also makes for a perfect craft activity for a cosy winter evening. Enjoy crafting and happy holidays!

Making Charming Yarn Gnomes with Terracotta Pot Hats

millie@kangaroouk.com (Millie Rowe) — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 09:55:20 GMT

How to Make Charming Yarn Gnomes with Terracotta Pot Hats

Creating DIY Yarn Gnomes with terracotta pot hats is a delightful project that adds a unique touch to your décor or makes for adorable gifts. Here’s a simple guide to craft your own:

Materials Needed:

Yarn (for the beard)
Small terracotta pots
Small wooden beads (for the nose)
Hot glue gun
Scissors

Instructions:

Create the Beard: Cut yarn into several 6-inch strands. Gather and tie in the middle with a small rubber band to form the beard.
Attach the Nose: Use a hot glue gun to attach a wooden bead above the center of the yarn beard for the gnome's nose.
Prepare the Hat: Select a small terracotta pot that will fit over the bead and the upper part of the yarn beard.
Assemble the Gnome: Slide the terracotta pot over the bead and yarn beard, positioning it as the gnome’s hat. Secure it with hot glue to ensure it stays in place.
Add Details and Personality: Customize your gnome by adding small embellishments like buttons or additional beads, or by painting the pots.

This easy craft is not only fun but allows you to create a variety of gnomes by simply changing the yarn color or decorating the pots differently. Enjoy making your own little gnome army!

Light Up the Night: Creating Bonfire Night Firework Art

millie@kangaroouk.com (Millie Rowe) — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:17:17 GMT

As the chill of November sets in, the UK gears up for the dazzling displays of Bonfire Night. Amidst the excitement of fireworks and festivities, why not bring some of that sparkle indoors with a fun and festive art project? Creating your own firework art is not only a great way to engage with the spirit of Guy Fawkes Night, but it also provides a creative outlet that’s perfect for artists of all ages.

Materials You’ll Need:

Dark construction paper (black or navy blue works best)
Glitter in multiple colors
White paint
A variety of paintbrushes
Plastic forks
Glue

Step-by-Step Guide:

Set Up Your Canvas: Begin with your dark paper as the background to mimic the night sky. Lay it flat on a protected surface to prepare for painting.
Painting the Fireworks: Dip your brush in white paint and splatter or place dots on the paper to act as the explosive center of each firework. These dots are where your fireworks will burst from.
Creating the Sparkle: While the paint is still wet, take a plastic fork and gently pull the paint out from the center dot outward, mimicking the rays of fireworks spreading. You can vary the direction and length of your strokes to create different firework shapes.
Adding Color and Shine: Immediately sprinkle your choice of colored glitter over the wet paint. This is where you can get creative—mix colors, add layers, or create patterns. Each choice of glitter adds a unique burst of color, just like real fireworks.
Drying: Allow your masterpiece to fully dry. This might take a few hours, but it ensures all your sparkles and designs set in place.
Finishing Touches and Display: Once dry, your Bonfire Night art is ready to be displayed. You can frame it, hang it up, or use it as a backdrop for a Bonfire Night-themed party.

This project not only captures the explosive joy of fireworks but also provides a fantastic opportunity to discuss the history and significance of Bonfire Night with children. It’s a perfect blend of education, creativity, and festivity—embodying the warmth and spirit of this beloved UK holiday.

So grab your brushes and let your creativity burst forth like the grandest firework finale!

Spooky Clay Ghost Tealight Covers

millie@kangaroouk.com (Millie Rowe) — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 09:32:09 GMT

How to Make Spooky Clay Ghost Tealight Covers with Foil

Enhance your Halloween decor with these easy-to-make spooky clay ghost tealight covers! Using simple materials and a touch of creativity, you can create delightful decorations.

Materials:

Air-dry clay
Battery-operated tealight candles
Rolling pin
Aluminum foil
Knife or clay cutting tool

Instructions:

Prepare the Base: Roll out your air-dry clay to about 1/4 inch thickness with a rolling pin.
Create Foil Molds: Tear off a piece of aluminum foil and crumple it into a loose ball. Flatten the top slightly and drape the rolled-out clay over the foil to form the ghost shape.
Shape and Detail: Smooth the clay around the foil, ensuring you leave enough space to place and remove the tealight. Use a knife or tool to make eye and mouth cutouts.
Dry: Allow your clay ghosts to fully air dry, which may take up to 24 hours.
Final Touches: Remove the foil from inside the clay if desired, or leave it for added stability. You can paint the ghosts white or leave them natural.
Illuminate: Place a tealight under each ghost to create a spooky illumination effect.

This project is perfect for a fun family crafting session or a creative way to decorate for Halloween parties. Enjoy your crafting and happy Halloween!

DIY Spooky Candles Tutorial

millie@kangaroouk.com (Millie Rowe) — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 12:15:36 GMT

Halloween Decor with Toilet Paper Rolls and Hot Glue

Transform your home into a haunted haven with these easy-to-make spooky candles using simple materials.

Materials Needed:

Toilet paper rolls
Hot glue gun and glue sticks
Black paint
Battery-operated tea lights

Instructions:

Prepare the Base: Start with clean toilet paper rolls. For a varied effect, you can cut them at different heights.

Create Drips: Use a hot glue gun to apply glue around the top edge of the rolls, letting it drip down the sides to mimic candle wax.

Paint: Once the glue has dried, paint the rolls and dried glue with black paint for a ghostly look.

Insert Candles: Place a battery-operated tea light inside each roll. Ensure the light is secure and sits flush for a realistic candle effect.

Display: Arrange your candles in groups on a mantel, table, or windowsill to create an eerie Halloween display.

These faux candles are safe, fun to make, and add the perfect touch of spookiness to your Halloween décor. For more creative ideas like this, check our weekly blog updates on the Ashby Arts Festival website.

Preserving Nature's Art: How to Press Flowers at Home

millie@kangaroouk.com (Millie Rowe) — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 11:37:38 GMT

Embracing the timeless charm of pressed flowers is a delightful way to celebrate nature from the comfort of your home. Not only is this activity easy and safe, but it also provides a beautiful way to preserve memories from your garden or special moments.

Pressing flowers is an enchanting way to capture the ephemeral beauty of nature. It’s a simple process that requires minimal equipment and can be a great activity for all ages.

Materials Needed:

Fresh flowers and leaves
Heavy books
Absorbent paper (blotting, coffee filters, or newspaper)
Optional: A flower press

Step-by-Step Process:

Choose Your Specimens: Opt for flowers that are naturally flatter like violets, daisies, or ferns, as they press more easily.
Prepare the Flowers: Arrange your flowers between two layers of absorbent paper. Make sure there is no overlap to ensure an even press.
Pressing: Place the layered papers inside a heavy book or a dedicated flower press. Add extra weight on top for a firmer press.
Drying Time: Leave them to press for 2-4 weeks. Check occasionally to ensure they are drying and not molding.
Removal: Once fully dried, gently remove the flowers. They should be completely flat and free from moisture.

Creative Projects with Pressed Flowers:

Decorative Frames: Seal pressed flowers in glass frames for a stunning wall decoration.
Custom Stationery: Decorate notecards and bookmarks for a personal touch.
Resin Jewelry: Encapsulate your favorite blooms in resin for wearable art.
Candle Making: Pressed flowers can be incorporated into homemade candles for a lovely floral touch.

This craft offers a therapeutic way to unwind while creating beautiful, lasting pieces. For more DIY project ideas and tips, be sure to follow our Facebook page, where we share new blog posts weekly. Keep updated and never miss out on new inspirations by visiting Ashby Arts Festival on Facebook . Let your creativity bloom with our community of fellow craft enthusiasts!

Welcome Autumn with a Crafty Flair: DIY Papier-Mâché Balloon Pumpkins

millie@kangaroouk.com (Millie Rowe) — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 14:37:22 GMT

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, autumn heralds a time of vibrant colors and cozy activities. What better way to welcome the season than by engaging in a fun and family-friendly craft that not only celebrates the essence of fall but also adds a touch of personal flair to your seasonal decor?

Why Choose Papier-Mâché Pumpkins? Papier-mâché is a versatile crafting medium that's perfect for creating lightweight decorations that can be customized in countless ways. Creating balloon pumpkins is particularly great for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or as general autumnal decor. Plus, it's an excellent way to recycle old newspapers and engage kids in an eco-friendly project.

How to Make Your Own Papier-Mâché Pumpkin

Materials Needed:

Balloon
Newspaper
Flour and water (for the paste)
Paint (orange, black, and green)
Brushes

Creating Your Pumpkin:

Inflate the balloon to the desired size of your pumpkin.
Tear the newspaper into strips.
Make the paste by mixing flour and water into a smooth consistency.
Dip the newspaper strips into the paste and layer them around the balloon. Let each layer dry before adding the next.
Once dry, paint your pumpkin in vibrant autumn hues, adding features like faces or patterns as desired.

This simple project not only provides a fantastic opportunity to introduce children to basic crafting skills but also allows them to express their creativity through art. The end result is a charming, homemade decoration that can brighten up any corner of your home.

For more creative ideas and seasonal activities, keep following our posts at Ashby Arts Festival. Let’s make this autumn unforgettable with hands-on creativity that everyone can enjoy!

Children's Competition Results

Mon, 13 May 2024 13:55:48 GMT

Creativity Cup draw your own Selfie Competition 2024

Competition 1

Prizewinner: Thea Powell

Certificate of Merit: Sophie Mitchell

Competition 2

Prizewinner: Keane Farrell

Certificate of Merit: Thomas Malpass

Competition 3

Prizewinner: Evie Neale

Certificate of Merit: Zac Parker and Florence Ellis

The overall Specsavers' Creativity Cup winner is Thea Powell.

Here she is being awarded her prize and Silver Cup at the prize giving.

We are very grateful to Specsavers Ashby for their sponsorship of this event. The children are always pleased with the lovely prizes and of course with the Silver Cup. The first date engraved on the Cup is 2014 and Specsavers was supporting me with this Competition, for some time before that. Thank you Kully for your generosity and Cheryl for once again giving us your time. We appreciate this and the other support that you give to our community.

Also thank you to the Mayor Avril Wilson and to artist John Smith who gave their enthusiasm and time to the children at prize giving.

We had lots of entries, now displayed in the windows of the Derby Road coop, please go and have a look.

Competition was very kindly put together by Di Lorriman: https://www.dilorriman.co.uk