Handicraft

When cutting images from paper for your decoupage pieces, move the paper into the blades of the scissors to produce a bevelled edge-finish on the paper. This will assist you when gluing the pieces i...

The weather can play havoc with the finishing coats on a decoupage piece. Wait for a fine, dry day to start applying the layers of varnish. If the air is too moist, your project may take on a cloude...

Keep all your small scraps and squares of Aida cloth or other cross-stitch fabric. These can be used to create stitched decorations for greeting cards and gift...

Pieces of tulle or net fabric can be used to trace patterns. Place the tulle over the design, trace the pattern, then position the tulle and trace the design again. Remove the fabric, then join the...

Never leave a needle in your cross-stitch, tapestry or needlepoint, only in the margin of your work. A brief interruption can lead to lengthy time away from your work and a needle can rust,...

Your thread should never be shorter than twice the length of your needle - any shorter and your stitches will become tight as you attempt to work the...

When working needlepoint or tapestry pieces, ensure that your thread is no longer than 45cm (or approximately the length from your fingers to just below your elbow). This will prevent knotting and...

Household or sea sponges are the perfect tool for filling in tricky areas of a stencil. Cut the sponge to the desired size and this will ensure no paint ends up in the wrong...

When working with acrylic paints, remember that they dry darker than their undried colour. If you have worked an object that dries much darker than planned, try applying a wash of equal quantities o...

To keep your container of water clear for longer when changing paint colours, just dip your brush loaded with paint into the water, then wipe the bristles on a tissue or piece of paper towel to...