DIY Network

Cornucopia of Creativity More Thanksgiving Crafts

Cornucopia of Creativity

Materials:

premade cornucopia
plaster cloth
water
acrylic paints
paint brushes
metal leaf
spray adhesive
white glue or Modge Podge
mesh bags (fruit and vegetable bags)

	Figure A
	Figure B

Steps:

1. Dip plaster cloth into a bowl of water and ring it out.

2. Drape plaster cloth over cornucopia, leaving some areas exposed (figure A). Let dry. This will give the cornucopia a more sculptural look.

3. Paint the cornucopia with acrylic paint to add vibrant autumn color. Let dry.

4. Add brilliant metallic shimmer with metal leaf. Spray adhesive lightly where the leaf will go. Let adhesive set for a few minutes, then apply the leaf until you achieve the desired look (figure B). Let dry.

5. Cut mesh bags into workable pieces.

6. Drape mesh bags over the cornucopia and secure them with spray adhesive. Let dry.

7. Fill the cornucopia with traditional fruit, nuts or rolls, or fill with handpainted Rocks of Gratitude. (instructions below)

Rocks of Gratitude

Materials:

rocks (various sizes, avoid shiny or glossy rocks)
light stock paper (such as news print)
low-gloss varnish or clear finish

Figure C

Steps:

1. Collect an assortment of rocks from your yard or a local streambed.

2. Clean with soap and water, then paint with fall colored acrylic paints (figure C). It's not necessary to cover the entire rock with paint, leave some areas exposed if you wish. Let dry.

Figure D

3. Print words of wisdom or Thanskgiving quotes on paper. Tear out the sayings (figure D).

4. Glue the sayings to your rocks using either white glue or Mog Podge.

5. Finish off the rocks by applying low-gloss varnish or polyurethane.

Figure E

6. Arrange the rocks in your cornucopia along with some other dried elements, such as nuts or grasses (figure E).

When dinner is over, invite your guests to take a rock home with them and use it as a paperweight or add it to their garden. It makes for a unique keepsake. They’ll be thankful for your creative efforts all year long!