Did you see Carissa’s recent tutorial for turning bottles of nail art glitter into easy necklaces? She wasn’t the only person eyeing up those little bottles for jewelry-making purposes! Jessica at Mad in Crafts was inspired to turn a few of them into “message in a bottle” necklaces, each containing a special message or sentiment. It’s a wonderfully thoughtful, unique idea that is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Leave them plain or dress them up all fancy-like; she even offers a couple of ideas for beautiful variations on the design! [how to make a message in a bottle necklace]

Project estimate:

• Nail art glitter bottles, $1
• Paper, on hand
• Chain, on hand or $1
• Jump rings (optional), on hand
• Bead or other embellishments (optional), on hand or $1 and up

Total: $1 and up

The post Make a Message in a Bottle Necklace appeared first on Dollar Store Crafts.

There are lots of things you can do with picture frames besides photos, but here is one you probably haven’t thought about. When Andrea from The Simple Craft Diaries came across some beautiful little round frames in clearance at Michaels for a quarter each (SCORE!), she was inspired to turn them into fun, funky pin cushions! A little spray paint and a selection of different fabrics allowed her to create a variety of looks, showing just how versatile this project can be.  They are super easy to make, and they have a distinctive look that will make them the envy of all your sewing friends.  [how to make picture frame pin cushions]

Project estimate:

• Picture frame, $1 and up
• Foam ball, on hand or $1
• Fabric, on hand
• Paint (optional), on hand or $1
• Hot glue, on hand

Total: $1 and up

The post Make Picture Frame Pin Cushions appeared first on Dollar Store Crafts.

This is one of the coolest projects I have come across! If you only click on one link today, click on this one to Living Locurto’s reverse sign painting tutorial! Not only is the idea wonderful, but the tutorial is informative, makes the project look easily doable, and has extra tips to help you do a great job. [via Best of DIY] [project by Cathe Holden]

A reverse painted sign would be the perfect gift for many people, especially if it was customized for the recipient. Depending on the font and layout you use, these signs can look antique, retro, or modern. You are really only limited by your imagination. You can easily reverse paint an old fashioned sign from stuff you find at the dollar store. Look for frames with glass (there should be a decent selection) or framed art. The thrift store, dump, or reclaimed building supply store will also yield great materials.

This is also a fabulous idea for making signs for your business. You can use this technique on your store windows (if you have a store!) or make a small framed sign for craft fairs, like this one from the tutorial:

Project Estimate:

• Frame with glass, $1
• Acrylic craft paint, $.50 each
• Photo/layout program, on hand (if you don’t have one, visit Sumo Paint to do your layout online)
• Paint brushes, on hand

Total cost: $1.50 and up

The post Reverse Paint an Old-Fashioned Sign appeared first on Dollar Store Crafts.

Need big, fancy buttons for a project, but don’t want to pay high fashion prices for them? Hannah at knick knacks & ric rac made her own fancy buttons by combining two buttons of different sizes for a unique look.

Project Cost:

• Big Buttons: $1.25 for 2
• Small Buttons: $1.50 for 4

Total: $4 for 4 new fancy buttons, or $1 each

The post Designer Buttons, Dollar Store Price appeared first on Dollar Store Crafts.