A: (DIY crafts expert Carol Scheffler) I love the sound and look of wind chimes too! And I have some really cute ideas for you:- Use three sizes of clay pots and a rope (turn the pots upside down and nest them, using a knotted rope through the hole in the bottom of each to hold them together).
- Drill holes in the handles of old flatware and hang the pieces with monofilament.
Q: I'd like some ideas for some inexpensive but creative plant markers to put in my garden. Can you help me out?
A: Well, believe it or not, I'm going to turn back to flatware. Hit some garage sales or flea markets and find the flatware with the plastic handles. Use permanent markers, paint pens, or paint to write the name of your plant on them, then stick them down in the dirt.
Another idea is to use craft stick and decorate them colorfully -- very inexpensive, but fun!
Q: Do you have any good ideas for candle holders to be used outside? I want make sure they are safe as well as attractive.
A: Here are a couple of ideas:
- Decorate terra-cotta pot with seashells or glass beads and pour sand inside to hold the candles firmly in place.
- Remove the tops from tin cans; decorate by punching holed in the cans, and be sure to punch a couple of hole around the tops to add wires and beads.
Money-Saver Tip: I love to decorate my gardens, and one inexpensive way to add some flare to your garden is with garden rocks. Find smooth rocks either in your own yard or at a garden store, and decorate them with outdoor paints or paint pens. Write "Welcome to my garden," or just paint a simple shape like a sun, a flower or a smiley face. It's a great, inexpensive way to spruce up a garden bed.
