Thank you Lowes for partnering with me on this blog post!

Seeing that Lowes was now offering these cute kits that you could buy to do together at home, or bring to the store, to be able to use their tools was amazing!! Such cute things to build and can be used for a long time.  The cute wooden swarm spinner is going to be something that my granddaughters will love and have here to play with when they come over.  I would definitely suggest that you look into it and see what’s available for your family.  I need to ask if they have some for us big kids!!

Check out the @lowes Kids Club - fun kits and workshops for your #family #Lowes #KidsClub Find out more at https://shoplowes.me/4xz7RbG
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About the MrBeast Workshop & Builder Kit:

Each month, Lowe’s is releasing an exclusive builder kit where kids ages 8+ (or younger builders with a little adult help) can build their MrBeast toy at one of our in-store workshops. Participants earn a one-of-a-kind MrBeast badge for their Kids Club apron, plus a digital version for their Lowe’s Kids Profile. Each kit is $14.98 and is a great way to get kids off screens and into something fun. Every kit includes a MrBeast swarm toy.

Registration Details:

Registration for the MrBeast Kids Club workshops is now open. Participation requires MyLowe’s Rewards members to create a kids’ profile and purchase the MrBeast Kids Club. To register, visit Lowes.com/KidsClub to sign up for the next two workshops:

June 27 – Swarm Spinner (Ferris Wheel)
July 25 – Swarm Jet

Check out the Lowe’s Kids Club – it is free to join!!

Connect With Lowes Kids Club:

Disclaimer: I, Jamie Tomkins, own and operate TigerStrypes Blog located at www.tigerstrypes.com. From time to time you’ll hear about my real life experiences with products and/or services from companies and individuals. Let it be known that I have no affiliation with these said companies, and have not received compensation for reviewing their service/product. The service/product was given to me by the company or any agents of the company. The review that I give regarding the product/service is based off my own personal experience; I do not guarantee that your experience will be the same.

The post Check Out the Lowe’s Kids Club!! appeared first on TigerStrypes Blog.

This site contains affiliate links. Please see below for more information.

Upcycled Plastic Christmas Tree

#DIY #Upcycled #Holiday #GiftBox

Is it really almost Christmas?  I just can’t believe how fast time is going by.  I’m one to start Christmas shopping on December 26th for the next year, but it seems like this year I was a bit behind on my shopping list.  There were just a few people left, and I usually get them a gift certificate for a local restaurant, or something like that.  This year, I wanted something a bit more exciting than just a small box, or a card.

I saw something like this on Pinterest, that someone found a pizza storage box (didn’t even know those existed) at their local Dollar Store.  Well, I ran to mine and of course, there was nothing like it available.  Our mountain stores never have the products that people say are available online. Darn!! Well, back home to start looking online.  Found some on the website for shopping and placed my order.  Now, I’ll just have to wait a bit.

Low and behold, the mailman was here with the box within just a few days and I was able to get to work!  It was super simple and turned out pretty cute.  I hope you enjoy this craft idea.  If you end up making one, be sure and share a photo on my FB page, with what you come up with.  I’d love to see it!  I sure hope that you like the tutorial, and pray that you have a blessed day!

Please be sure to take the time to comment, and share this craft on your social media channels – thanks so much!!

Make an upcycled #Christmas Tree Gift from a Pizza Storage Container #DIY #Upcycled via #TigerStrypesBlog - Find out more at
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Materials/Tools Used:

• Pizza Plastic Storage Box
• Candy
• Gift Card
• Stickers
• Glue Dots/Tape
• & Time!

Instructions for the Christmas Tree:

Head to the dollar store, and if you’re lucky, you’ll find some pizza storage boxes.  If you’re like me, and not lucky, go online and place an order.  Start by attaching the gift card or certificate to the front part of the “tree.”

Next, start filling your storage box with any type of candy that you think the person will like for their gift.

Check that it closes pretty tightly, to help the gift card not fall off.  You could add other objects, or just more candy – totally up to you.  When that’s done, you can start “decorating” your tree.  I just used some ornament stickers and a gold star for the top of the tree.  You could add pom-poms, garlands, or whatever you’d like.  Make it simple, or go crazy!!

You’re all set.  Now you can just set it under the tree, or give it to someone early, if you’d like.  Super simple to make and the storage container can continue to be used for years to come!!

I hope you like it!  Please take a minute to leave me a comment on what you would like to create, and maybe if you have any tips on how to do it different, or better!

Be sure to tweet, pin, share, etc. – thanks!!

Affiliate links for Amazon are used on my site. This means that when you click on a link, and make a purchase, I earn a commission for that purchase. There is no extra charge for you, it’s just their sites way of saying thank you for helping them get a customer. I use affiliate links to help fund my crafting budget, as well as help provide for our home.  Parts of the instructions copied from Ryobi Tools website. Image by Freeimages.com

The post Upcycled Plastic Christmas Tree Gift Box appeared first on TigerStrypes Blog.

 This site contains affiliate links. Please see below for more information.

Make Spider Webs from Doilies

– Halloween Decor –

#DIY #Crafts #Halloween

This year is sure flying by.  It’s hard to believe that it’s already October.  It’s been awhile since I’ve posted, please forgive me.  Starting a new job after being a stay-at-home Mom for 25 years, has made my schedule a bit different.  I figured that our son was out of the house, and even though I don’t need to work, it allows us to get extra money for things like going out to eat, or buying clothes when I want to.  It’s been nice to have some extra spending money and days that aren’t boring.

Knowing that Halloween was coming up, I was looking at some photos online and saw something like this, but a bit different.  It looked like fun to make, so I looked around for some of the things that I had at the house and went to the dollar store for some Halloween spiders.  Didn’t know what size I was going to end up with, so I bought a few different options.

These were really easy to make, and for someone that really doesn’t like doilies in the house, I could use up some that were sitting around.  Growing up with doilies just about everywhere in our house, I never really cared for any of them.  Being able to use them for something other than the coffee table, made it fun!

I hope you enjoy this craft idea.  If you end up making some, be sure and share a photo on my FB page, with what you come up with.  I’d love to see it!  I sure hope that you like the tutorial, and pray that you have a blessed day!

Please be sure to take the time to comment, and share this craft on your social media channels – thanks so much!!

Upcycle those Old #Doilies and Make Some #Halloween Spider Web #Decor #DIY via #TigerStrypesBlog - Find out more at
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Materials/Tools Used:

• Old Doilies
• Garage Sale Framed Artwork
• Faux Spiders
• Glue/Glue Gun
• Paint
• & Time!

Instructions for the Spider Web Doilies:

Start with some old artwork, or something you find at a thrift store or garage sale.  It doesn’t matter if it has glass in it, or not.  Remove the piece of whatever art and just paint it black.  Mine was painted with some matte black spray paint.  I had these with black frames already, so I didn’t have to paint the frames.  If yours are a different color, just paint those black, as well.

Once the painted part dries, you can begin attaching the doily to make the web.  I just used some glue dots to adhere it.  Be sure to use some very sticky ones, or even use some glue to make it stay tight.  You can put the “web” wherever you wish.  Make it centered, or do it in a corner, like the second piece that I made.  You can always trim the web in half and do two (2) opposite corners, the options are totally open.

When the glue is dry, or you have it secured as best as you can, you can start with adhering the spider.  I just added some tacky glue spots under it as well, and attached it.  If you want to be sure to make it permanent, just use a glue gun or other type of strong glue to make it stick even more.  I wasn’t sure if I would take these apart after the holiday, so I just wanted it semi-stuck on.

Now you can hang these wherever you’d like, or display them on a shelf or cupboard.  The options are endless.  Here’s the second one that I made, using a little bit of leftover cross stitch floss (I just realized that the spider should be facing the other way…oops):

Just have fun with things and make crafting fun.  It doesn’t always have to take forever, or be super detailed to be fun.  These are a perfect afternoon craft to do with your kids or friends.  I always love to upcycle things and make them have a new life!  I hope you like it!  Please take a minute to leave me a comment on what you would like to create, and maybe if you have any tips on how to do it different, or better!

Be sure to tweet, pin, share, etc. – thanks!!

Affiliate links for Amazon are used on my site. This means that when you click on a link, and make a purchase, I earn a commission for that purchase. There is no extra charge for you, it’s just their sites way of saying thank you for helping them get a customer. I use affiliate links to help fund my crafting budget, as well as help provide for our home.  Parts of the instructions copied from Ryobi Tools website. Image by Freeimages.com

The post Make Spider Webs from Doilies – Halloween Decor appeared first on TigerStrypes Blog.

 This site contains affiliate links. Please see below for more information.

Build Your Own

Backyard Connect Four Game

#DIY #Craft #Games #Outdoor

I can’t believe that we’re already into Spring, and getting ready for summer.  This year is flying by.  With the cold days almost behind us, it’s time to start planning some outdoor activities, finally.  My family loves to have backyard barbecues and days of fun with friends and family.  We always put out some games, like the Cornhole Set that we built, so that everyone can have fun.  Years ago, I had found some plans online from a tool company on how to make your own backyard Connect Four game.  I figured that it would be pretty easy – yeah, right and that directions from a tool company, should be spot on and easy to understand.  Well, we were in for a bit of a shock.  Their measurements were off, products and tools needed were wrong and we pretty much said thanks for the idea, we’ll just do it ourselves.

After all of the hiccups, we finally were able to get things done.  Some of the list, thanks to friends from church, who are very knowledgeable in wood projects.  Drilling holes should be easy, right?  Well not for me, but thanks to Kelly, we were set up and ready.  He and his wife actually painted the checker pieces for us, too – so it saved us some steps.  Thank you, friends!!  Keep reading for the tutorial.

I hope you enjoy this craft idea.  If you end up making one, be sure and share a photo on my FB page, with what you come up with.  I’d love to see it!  I sure hope that you like the tutorial, and pray that you have a blessed day!

Please be sure to take the time to comment, and share this craft on your social media channels – thanks so much!!

Make Your Own Backyard Connect Four Game #Outdoors #Family #GameNight #DIY via #TigerStrypesBlog - Find out more at
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Materials/Tools Used:

• ¾”x 4′ x 8′ sheet of plywood (1)
• 2′ x 4′ x 8′ boards (2)
• 2′ x 6′ x 8′ board (1)
• 1′ x 3′ x 8′ board (1)
• 1′ x 2′ x 8′ boards (6)
• 7″ game pieces (42)
• 1¼” deck screws (1 lb)
• 2½” deck screws (2 lbs)
• Door Hinges (2) and latch (1)
• Minwax Wood Stain or paint, Clear Coat
• Sander/Sandpaper
• Nail Gun
• Circular Saw
• Hole Saw
• Cordless Drill
• Paint/Stain
• & Time!

Instructions for the Backyard Connect Four Game:

The project directions that we got looked easy, but turned out to be confusing and somewhat wrong.  I will do my best to try and make it simpler for you to understand.  Take the materials list to your local hardware store and buy the products that you don’t have.  If you’re a DIY’er like I am, than a lot of the tools, screws, etc. are already in your garage, so no need to buy more.

Using the two (2) 2′ x 4′ x8′ boards, cut each of them down to one (1) 55″ piece and two (2) 17″ pieces, for a total of two (2) 2′ x4′ x 55″ pieces and four (4) 2′ x 4′ x 17″ pieces.  Now get the 2′ x 6′ x 8′ board and cut it into two (2) 36″ pieces. Take the 1′ x 3′ x 8′ board, and cut it down to one (1) 62″ piece. Next, using the six (6) 1′ x 2′ x 8′ boards, trim them to two (2) 43″ pieces, for a total of twelve (12) 1′ x 2′ x 43″ pieces.  Now, cut the plywood in half, being sure to measure to verify.

When that’s done, it’s time to make some angle cuts.  Take the four (4) 2′ x 4′ x 17″ pieces that you already cut. Set your miter saw to a 45° angle, and cut angles off both of the ends to create four (4) 2′ x 4′ x 17″ trapezoid shapes. You’re now ready to assemble the sides and legs. Attach one (1) 2′ x 4′ x 55″ piece to the center of one (1) 2′ x 6′ x 36″ piece, with a few of the 2½” deck screws. Then attach two (2) 2′ x 4′ x 17″ supports.  We messed up on this part and attached our up and down instead of flat, but it still works.  Do this again to make the other side, so you end up with two (2) identical pieces.

After those are done, you can start on the tedious process of the game board itself.  Take one (1) of the 64½” x 43″ plywood pieces. Get ready to cut forty-two (42) 6″ holes (we used a 5″ hole saw on ours, so we didn’t cut that many).  I’m sharing some of the directions from the Ryobi site, if you want to do it their way.  The holes should be laid out 7 across (64½” side) and 6 down (43″ side). In order to get the holes and spacing appropriate and symmetrical, use a chalk line to create center points of each hole.  Along the edges of the 64½” sides, mark the following measurements: 5¼”; 14¼”; 23¼”; 32¼”; 41¼”; 50¼”; and 59¼”. Place the chalk line tightly across the plywood lined up with these marks and “snap” to mark the wood.

Along both edges of the 43″ sides, mark the following measurements: 4½”; 11½”; 18½”; 25½”; 32½”; and 39½”. Again set the chalk line at these marks and “snap” again.  You’ll end up with a grid style marked on your plywood. The intersecting of these lines marks the centers of the holes that you will need to be cut.  Place the drill bit of the hole saw at each center point, and cut the holes.

After the holes are cut, you should sand the edges, to take care of splinters, etc.

When this was done, we decided to start staining the pieces, before putting things together.  We used some amazing Minwax stain, that we got at our local hardware store.  Colors and type are totally up to you.  You could find some great deals on Minwax online here – check it out.  You could also use some clear coat on top to seal everything in – find that here.

Now, using the 1¼” deck screws, attach six (6) of the 1′ x 2′ x 43″ spacers to one side of the plywood with holes. Center each spacer between the holes, and use two (2) 1′ x 2′ x 43″ pieces on each of the ends. This will create seven (7) columns (again, we ended up doing it a bit differently, but these dimensions should hopefully work for you). Use 3 screws per space (top, bottom, and middle). This way you know where the screws are when they are covered. There should be ½” between the hole and the spacer.

Now, you can put together the two pieces of plywood (photo above). Make sure you are “sandwiching” the spacers on the inside and checking that all sides are very flush. Use the 1 ¼” deck screws screwing in from the back of the game into the spacers. On spacers 4 and 5 use two (2) screws each at rows 2 and 4 on the front of the game.

Place the game board and the legs together. Using the 2 ½” deck screws, attach the legs to each side of the game board so that the wide side of the 2×4 is flush at the top and centered, and attached into the side spacers within the game board “sandwich.” (NOTE: The top of the game board has a bit more space to the first row of holes. The bottom has only about ½” of space.)  Use the last four (4) pieces of 1x2x43″ on the outside edges of the game board (vertically) to reinforce the sides of the game face and back, using the 2½” deck screws.  We didn’t do this part, but it might have made it more sturdy.

Attach the 1’x 3′ x 62″ piece of wood on the bottom of the game board to create the “trap door” that will let the game pieces fall out when it is opened. Use the door hinges to attach it in place and use the hook and latch to keep it  securely closed, while playing.

We also measured the distance between the legs, when it was all put together, and made a tray out of 2′ x 4′ pieces and another piece of leftover plywood that we had.  This doesn’t have to be done, but I figured it would help keep it all together and not have the pieces scatter all over the yard.

Now with this part, we messed up.  We had used all of the circles that we had cut out, not realizing that the spacers we had used, were a bit too small.  This meant, that after we had spent hours on this, painted everything, waited for it to dry… days and days, the pieces ended up being too thick.  I tried to put one in and it wouldn’t even fall down.  I about did (fell down) on the floor in the garage crying, but that’s another story.

We ended up having our friend Kelly, who had some extra wood in his garage cut the pieces from a thinner piece of plywood.  He and his sweet wife, ended up painting them half and half for us, so they were ready to use.  We were so thankful for their help.  I just wanted to put this in here, to let you know to make sure of certain things before hand.  This project was a bit of a pull out your hair month, but I digress.

Once everything is put together, and dry (again!), you’re ready to play.  Like most of us know, Connect Four is a two-player game. Players take turns, with their own color of checker pieces (one color for each player). The goal of the game is to get four pieces of your own color in a row — horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, before your opponent does!

When it’s your turn, just drop one (1) of your checker pieces into an open slot at the top. This lets you build your row(s) or put a stop to your opponents row.  After you make your drop, it’s your opponent’s turn. The game’s over when one of the players is able to get four (4) of their checkers in a row.

To play another game, just pull the latch at the bottom, and release all of the checkers into your box.  Then you just start again.  It was so fun seeing our granddaughter play.  She loved the colors and hearing the sounds, when she dropped them in.  I think Papa let her win, though!!

What do you think of our Connect Four game?  I know the directions were a bit weird, but I hope you like it!  Please take a minute to leave me a comment on what you would like to create, and maybe if you have any tips on how to do it different, or better!

Be sure to tweet, pin, share, etc. – thanks!!

Affiliate links for Amazon are used on my site. This means that when you click on a link, and make a purchase, I earn a commission for that purchase. There is no extra charge for you, it’s just their sites way of saying thank you for helping them get a customer. I use affiliate links to help fund my crafting budget, as well as help provide for our home.  Parts of the instructions copied from Ryobi Tools website. Image by Freeimages.com

The post Build Your Own Backyard Connect Four Game appeared first on TigerStrypes Blog.

 This site contains affiliate links. Please see below for more information.

Christmas Gift Bag Framed Artwork

#DIY #Craft #Upcycled #Christmas

I saw something like this online and wanted to try it.  If you’re like me, you have WAY TOO MANY gift bags in that closet, that have been there for many years.  Sometimes you might even get one that you really love and don’t want to use (since your son usually just rips them and throws them away!!), or is that just me? Finding some inexpensive frames at the dollar store, and having everything else at home, this was a very cheap project.  Great for white elephant parties, or just decorating your home.  What do you think?  Keep reading for the tutorial.

I hope you enjoy this craft idea.  If you end up making one, be sure and share a photo on my FB page, with what you come up with.  I’d love to see it!  I sure hope that you like the tutorial, and pray that you have a blessed day!

Please be sure to take the time to comment, and share this craft on your social media channels – thanks so much!!

Make some #Christmas gift bag framed #artwork! #Gift #Decor #Holiday #Craft #DIY via #TigerStrypesBlog - Find out more at
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Materials/Tools Used:

• Large Gift Bag
• Four (4) Small Frames
• Scissors
• Trinket Piece
• Glue Gun
• & Time!

Instructions for the Gift Bag Artwork:

Start by cutting the front flat portion of the gift bag off of the rest of it.  If there’s an inside fold at the top, you can clip that, as well.  Just be sure to not use the back part, that has a fold in the picture at the bottom of the bag.

Using the 5×7 frames that I got at the dollar store, I removed the paper insert and set them over the gift bag photo to find where I needed to cut.  Be sure to center the main picture.  Using your scissors, start by cutting the edges and then the center pieces.  You’ll have four (4) separate pieces.  One (1) to insert into each frame.  You might need to trim the edges, but it won’t matter if it’s just a little bit.

Set all four (4) of the frames together tightly and using your glue gun, run a line of glue along the center areas to glue them all together.  Be sure to keep them tight together, so that the glue doesn’t run through them to the front.  If you see any open areas, once the glue is dry, just add some more to secure it even better.

Start adding the “photos” that you cut out of the gift bag.  Make sure that they are in the right order and all going the right way.  You don’t want one being upside down, or backwards.  Once they are all inserted, you can put the back parts of the photo frame back on.  Each of these had one of those stand pieces, that I just bent to remove from the frame backing.  It will be up to you, if you want to put two (2) nails in the wall to use the hangers that are on the back to hang it up.  I just wanted to set it on a shelf, so I didn’t really need any hangers.

Now in the front, where all of the frames come together in the center, it’s up to you if you want to add an embellishment or trinket to cover up that part.  If you didn’t get them even, it might look a bit off, so gluing something there will cover it all up.  Go as simple or detailed, as you like.

Once that’s done, you’re ready to display it, or give as a gift!  I hope you like it!  Please take a minute to leave me a comment on what you would like to create, and maybe if you have any tips on how to do it different, or better!

Be sure to tweet, pin, share, etc. – thanks!!

Affiliate links for Amazon are used on my site. This means that when you click on a link, and make a purchase, I earn a commission for that purchase. There is no extra charge for you, it’s just their sites way of saying thank you for helping them get a customer. I use affiliate links to help fund my crafting budget, as well as help provide for our home.  ^*Minion name used as fair use.  Item will not be sold and was for my personal craft purposes only. The Minions, Despicable Me, and Minion Made are all trademarked and copyrighted by Universal Studios.

The post Christmas Gift Bag Framed Artwork appeared first on TigerStrypes Blog.

 This site contains affiliate links. Please see below for more information.

Make an Upcycled Denim Pocket Angel
for Christmas

#DIY #Craft #Upcycled #Christmas

If you’ve read my blog before, you can probably tell that I love to upcycle stuff.  Having things that go bad, doesn’t mean that they need to become trash.  Case in point, clothing.  There are clothes that I have that have either gotten a hole in them, or become uncomfortable to wear.  Why should I throw them out, when I could use them to create something else?  Do you agree?  Seeing something like this on Pinterest with other fabric, I had an idea.  Let’s use some of those jean pockets to create the angels.  What do you think?  Keep reading for the tutorial.

I hope you enjoy this craft idea.  If you end up making one, be sure and share a photo on my FB page, with what you come up with.  I’d love to see it!  I sure hope that you like the tutorial, and pray that you have a blessed day!

Please be sure to take the time to comment, and share this craft on your social media channels – thanks so much!!

Make an #upcycled denim pocket angel from old jeans for #Christmas! #Gift #Decor #Holiday #Craft #DIY via #TigerStrypesBlog - Find out more at
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Materials/Tools Used:

• Recycled Jeans/Denim
• Scissors
• Thread/Floss
• Mini Wood Apples
• Glue Gun
• Paint Pen/Marker
• Wooden Stars
• Gold Pipe Cleaners
• Jute or String
• & Time!

Instructions for the Christmas Angel:

Start by cutting the back pocket from an old pair of jeans.  You can remove the back part of the fabric if you like, or leave it.  It’ll just be a bit thicker and might be hard to fold up.  I just trimmed around the pocket at first, and then when it was easier to hold, cut the top portion off to use for the angel.

Fan the fabric with just a bit more fabric on the bottom to be the dress.  The top part will be the wings.  Using some scrap thread or floss, secure the fan in the center and knot tightly.

With that secure, you can flip it over and adjust the pieces to be even.  Using your glue gun, glue in one of the wooden apples upside down to be the angel head.  Be sure to have it secure inside a fold before you continue.

Start with the halo, by wrapping a piece of the gold pipe cleaner around a glue stick or something else that is just a larger width than the wooden apple.  Twist it around itself, to secure the top.  Cut it to be about 1.5″ to 2″ long on the straight part.  This will be used to attach it behind the head.  Using a bit of glue on the straight stem, secure it behind the head.

With the jute or string that you have, you can make a bow to cover up the neck and string used to secure the pocket.

With a bit more of the jute, make a hanger on the back part.  You can make this as short or as long as you’d like.  I then used a wooden star to camouflage the glue and string on the back part, as well.  Using a black marker, I just wrote the year on there (did this one last year, but am now just getting to post).

When that’s done, you can also draw a face on the wooden apple.  Again, I stink at drawing, so don’t laugh at my attempt!  Well, okay… you can laugh… I am!  

Once that’s done, she is ready to hang on the tree, or give as a gift!  I hope you like it!  Please take a minute to leave me a comment on what you would like to create, and maybe if you have any tips on how to do it different, or better!

Be sure to tweet, pin, share, etc. – thanks!!

Affiliate links for Amazon are used on my site. This means that when you click on a link, and make a purchase, I earn a commission for that purchase. There is no extra charge for you, it’s just their sites way of saying thank you for helping them get a customer. I use affiliate links to help fund my crafting budget, as well as help provide for our home.  ^*Minion name used as fair use.  Item will not be sold and was for my personal craft purposes only. The Minions, Despicable Me, and Minion Made are all trademarked and copyrighted by Universal Studios.

The post Christmas Pocket Angel (Upcycled Denim Craft) appeared first on TigerStrypes Blog.

 This site contains affiliate links. Please see below for more information.

Make Some Yard Art with

a Minion^* Tank

#DIY #Craft #Upcycled #FairUse

If you know me, you know I’m almost 50 and love me some Minions^*!! I know, yeah I know, I’m a little weird, but who cares!!  If you’ve ever seen my Jeep, you know they are in the back, so they get to drive with me everywhere!

I something like this online and definitely wanted to make one!  My husband told me that his work has the tanks that they usually recycle when they get empty.  He said he’d bring one home for me!!  YAY!!!!  No more trying to figure out where to get that part of the project.  Now I just need him to bring another one home, so I can make a purple one!   The project was pretty easy to do, except for the painting – which I’m horrible at, but oh well.  Keep reading for the tutorial.

I hope you enjoy this craft idea.  If you end up making one, be sure and share a photo on my FB page, with what you come up with.  I’d love to see it!  I sure hope that you like the tutorial, and pray that you have a blessed day!

Please be sure to take the time to comment, and share this craft on your social media channels – thanks so much!!

Make some Yard Art with a Minion style Tank using #upcycled items! #Craft #DIY via #TigerStrypesBlog - Find out more at
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Materials/Tools Used:

• Empty R-134A Refrigerant Tank
• Sandpaper
• Stencils
• Cans (2)
• Spray Paint
• Marker
• Paint Pen
• & Time!

Instructions for the Minion Tank:

The project started by cleaning the tank that my husband had brought home, and then sanding the heck out of it, to remove the wording on the edges and glossy finish, to make it easier to paint.

Once the tank looked good enough to start painting the other colors, I got going on that.  Using some yellow spray paint, I coated the whole top area of the tank.  Knowing that I was going to be making the bottom a different color, I didn’t need to waste paint there.

After a couple of coats, and waiting for it to dry, I started on the bottom section.  I created some stencils and used some blue spray paint for the overalls.  There was a bit of overspray, so I had to do the best I could to clean that off.  I figured it was for outside, so it didn’t have to be perfect.

When the blue was completely dry, I used a large black permanent market to add some outline and decoration to the tank.  Again, I stink at drawing straight lines, so it’s a bit messy – who cares right?

Now I needed to add some eyes.  I usually buy some Moscow Mule in smaller cans, and figured that they would be perfect to make the goggles.  It was really horrible that I had to drink them first to use them! Darn! I cut the bottom portion off and made slits around the edges to fold that part in.  Be very careful when cutting thin metal, it’s ruthless!  Using some craft paint, I painted the “eyes.”  Then I used some Gorilla Glue to attach them to the tank.  Using a tie-down strap, I secured them to the tank to let the glue set overnight.  Being careful to not do it too tight and bend them.

After that, I used the large permanent marker to make the goggle strap around the head.  I just turned the tank around and tried to make it as straightest as I could.  The wind was blowing, so I think it made his goggles a bit crooked!   Yeah, that’s it!! The wind!!

Once that was done, it was ready to set out in the yard and enjoy!

What do you think of my Minion?  I hope you like it!  Please take a minute to leave me a comment on what you would like to create, and maybe if you have any tips on how to do it different, or better!

Be sure to tweet, pin, share, etc. – thanks!!

Affiliate links for Amazon are used on my site. This means that when you click on a link, and make a purchase, I earn a commission for that purchase. There is no extra charge for you, it’s just their sites way of saying thank you for helping them get a customer. I use affiliate links to help fund my crafting budget, as well as help provide for our home.  ^*Minion name used as fair use.  Item will not be sold and was for my personal craft purposes only. The Minions, Despicable Me, and Minion Made are all trademarked and copyrighted by Universal Studios.

The post Make Some Yard Art with a Minion* Tank appeared first on TigerStrypes Blog.

 This site contains affiliate links. Please see below for more information.

Halloween Ghost Craft

#DIY #Craft #Halloween

I still cannot believe that it’s already October!!  This year has been going by so fast.  With how hot it was in our Arizona Mountains this summer though, I’m kind of glad.  The temperatures even up here at 6700′ were brutal!  I don’t know how people can survive in the valley, without being in an air-conditioned room all day!  No thanks.

With Halloween almost here, I thought it would be fun to make this.  I saw something like it on Pinterest and thought that it would be fun to make.  Inexpensive items from the dollar store, or you could use things that you already have around the house to save even more.  I made two of them, and they remind me of my granddaughters being over in their costumes to enjoy Halloween.  They are on the landing of our staircase, so you get to see them when you walk by or climb the stairs.

Here’s hoping that you enjoy this craft idea for this October.  If you end up making some, please share a photo on my FB page or Instagram and tag me.  I’d love to see what you come up with!  I sure hope that you like the tutorial, and pray that you have a blessed day!

Please be sure to take the time to comment, and share this craft on your social media channels – thanks so much!!

Learn how to make a #Halloween Ghost Craft! Your own little Trick-or-Treater! #Kid #Children #Craft #DIY via #TigerStrypesBlog - Find out more at
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Materials/Tools Used:

• Small White Trash Can
• Stick-Up Light
• Plungers (2)
• Fabric (White & 1 Style)
• Small Shoes/Socks
• Craft Foam/Styrofoam
• Flowers, Ribbon, Adhesive Vinyl, Etc.
• Glue Gun/Adhesive
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Ruler
• & Time!

Instructions for the Halloween Ghost Craft:

Start by removing the rubber part of the plunger(s).  With some fabric that has a design, use your glue gun to cover the wooden portion of the plunger(s).  Trim the fabric to above the threads of the plunger, and at the top.

Next, cut up some craft Styrofoam and insert it into each sock.  Be sure to shape it, to fit inside of the shoe(s).  You’ll need enough to keep the plunger handle(s) steady, when you have the trash can on it, and all of the rest.  Insert the sock into the shoe and shape it, as necessary.  Now insert and secure the plunger handle(s) into the Styrofoam and adhere tightly with glue, or whatever is needed.

When both of the “legs” are dry, you can start on the next part.  Glue or attach your tap light to the back side of the trash can.  Be sure to have it in a spot that you’ll be able to access, when complete.  Attach the “legs” by gluing each top to the inside of the trash can.  Be sure to use some strong glue to hold it tight.  I tried a glue gun, but it really didn’t stay secure, so maybe some JB Weld, or Gorilla Glue would work better for this part.

Now, measure out the ballpark circumference of what to cut your circle of fabric to go over the top of the trash can.  I pretty much measured the length of the can from the top to the bottom and added a little bit.  Used this as a radius on some folded fabric to cut the circle.  It’s probably best to wash and iron the fabric that you’ll use now.  I didn’t have time to do that, and just wanted to finish the project, so please forgive my wrinkles in the finished ghost.

Using a dot of glue, put the piece of fabric over the trash can evenly to create your ghost costume.  Using some adhesive vinyl, or even craft paper, cut out some ovals for the eyes and secure them to the “face” of the ghost.

After that, you can decorate your ghost however you like.  I made a bow for one of their head(s), created “clothes” (glued to the bottom of the trash can), and added a flower to one shoe and top of the can.  It’s totally up to you and how you want them to look.  Go crazy with extra craft supplies that you have laying around.  You can finally make use of some of them! ha/ha

What do you think of my Halloween ghost?  I hope you like it!  Please take a minute to leave me a comment on what you would like to create, and maybe if you have any tips on how to do it different, or better!

Be sure to tweet, pin, share, etc. – thanks!!

Affiliate links for Amazon are used on my site. This means that when you click on a link, and make a purchase, I earn a commission for that purchase. There is no extra charge for you, it’s just their sites way of saying thank you for helping them get a customer. I use affiliate links to help fund my crafting budget, as well as help provide for our home.

The post Halloween Ghost Craft #DIY appeared first on TigerStrypes Blog.

 This site contains affiliate links. Please see below for more information.

Dragonfly Yard Art

#DIY #Craft #Upcycled

This has been a crazy summer.  Here in the mountains, we usually have only a few days of high temps, and then monsoon hits.  This year, it’s been crazy warm and we really haven’t gotten any rain.  With that being said, I have multiple things sitting in my craft room and garage, that are waiting to be done.  It just hasn’t been very comfortable for outside projects.

We finally got some rain the other day, so I figured “I’m going to finish a project!”  This is one that I’ve been working on for awhile.  I was able to put an ad on social media asking for an old ceiling fan that didn’t work anymore, since I needed just the fan blades.  About 20 minutes after I posted, a lady said that I could have hers.  Yay!!!  First item… check!  Then I needed an old table leg or something for the body.  Talking to my neighbor, she said she had a piece from an old bed frame that she was going to throw away.  Second item… check!!  I just had to go to the hardware store for just a few things, and I was ready!  Keep reading for the tutorial.

I hope you enjoy this craft idea.  If you end up making one, be sure and share a photo on my FB page, with what you come up with.  I’d love to see it!  I sure hope that you like the tutorial, and pray that you have a blessed day!

Please be sure to take the time to comment, and share this craft on your social media channels – thanks so much!!

Learn how to make some Dragonfly Yard Art with #upcycled items! #Craft #DIY via #TigerStrypesBlog - Find out more at
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Materials/Tools Used:

• Old Ceiling Fan Blades
• Old Table or Bed Frame Piece
• Drawer Handles
• Perforated Steel
• Scrap Wood
• Paint Pen, Spray Paint
• Sandpaper
• Tools
• & Time!

Instructions for the Dragonfly Yard Art:

Start by disassembling the ceiling fan.  If you just have the blades, then you can just wash them, sand them and get them ready for paint.  I used some spray paint to do a multi-color blend.  It might take a few coats, but be sure and let them dry completely between coats.

Once the first color layers dried, I used a clear paint and sprayed each fan blade.  Once again, make sure that dries fully before continuing.

While waiting for those to finish, I started on the bed/table leg.  Using some single color spray paint, I covered the whole leg.  I left that to sit and dry, as well.

Once it was completely dry, I used some sandpaper to add some rustic flair to it.  I used a sander on the fan blades, since the paint was really thick (forgot to get pictures of that).  You can also paint or use permanent marker, jewels, metal pieces or whatever, to add some flair to each piece.

Now it’s time to attach the wings.  Since the bed/table leg was a bit narrow, I decided to use a large piece of scrap wood to attach the fan blades to the sides of the leg.  Using two screws, from behind, we secured that part to the “body.”

Next, we attached each “wing” to the front of the board with screws through the fan blade attachments (thank you hubbie for your help).

Now it’s time for our little friend to “see.”  I got some cheap door pulls from the hardware store and we bored a couple of holes, where we wanted to attach them.  Once the depth was right, we added some glue and set them in.  Using some tape, we secured them until they could fully dry.  When they were fully cured, I then used a paint pen to add some pupils.

To give my dragonfly a bit of quirkiness, I added some antenna.  Using some metal strap from the hardware store, I measured out enough to screw to the top of the head (or table leg) and then wind it up into some curls.

After everything was dry, I got some really long rust-proof screws, and attached it to a tree in our backyard.  We love having weird stuff in our Route 66 themed yard, so this fits perfectly!

What do you think of our dragonfly?  I hope you like it!  Please take a minute to leave me a comment on what you would like to create, and maybe if you have any tips on how to do it different, or better!

Be sure to tweet, pin, share, etc. – thanks!!

Affiliate links for Amazon are used on my site. This means that when you click on a link, and make a purchase, I earn a commission for that purchase. There is no extra charge for you, it’s just their sites way of saying thank you for helping them get a customer. I use affiliate links to help fund my crafting budget, as well as help provide for our home.

The post Dragonfly Yard Art (Upcycle) appeared first on TigerStrypes Blog.

 This site contains affiliate links. Please see below for more information.

Woodburning Chopping Board Craft

#DIY #Craft #Kitchen #Home

I saw something like this for sale online, and figured that I could just make my own for a lot cheaper.  I loved the saying on it, and remember the song from years ago.  Made me smile, when I read it.  It just took some editing, and then telling my Cricut to cut!  I got some new wood burning gel from Amazon to use and it worked great.  You didn’t have to be as fast to use the heat gun, as with a prior brand that I used.  Made it look good, and authentic and didn’t mess with my hands.  Now, it looks great in my kitchen!

I hope you enjoy this craft idea, or know someone who would.  If you end up making one, be sure and share a photo on my FB page, with what you come up with.  I’d love to see it!  I sure hope that you like the tutorial, and pray that you have a blessed day!

Please be sure to take the time to comment, and share this craft on your social media channels – thanks so much!!

Make a #custom chopping board for your #kitchen, with #wood burning gel! #Craft #DIY via #TigerStrypesBlog - Find out more at
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Materials/Tools Used:

• Wooden Chopping Board
• Wood Burning Gel
• Vinyl & Transfer Paper or Stencil
• Cricut
• Beeswax
• & Time!

Instructions for the Chopping Board:

Start by using your Cricut and design software (or other cutting machine) to create your design that you want on the board.  I just used some extra leftover vinyl, in a color that I would probably never use on a project, so be sure it’s something that isn’t important to you (or expensive).

Now, you can get the piece ready for the vinyl.  Using some fine sandpaper, sand the wood board (or whatever item you are using) and make sure any coating is off of the top.  Use a paper towel, or something to get all of the dust off of it.

In a backwards type of way, take out the letters that you are going to want on the board.  Be sure to leave in the middle of letters, such as “o’s,” etc.  Now, attach the vinyl in the area that you are going to want the wording to show up.  Be sure to center it, or place it in the spot that you want the finished project.

After the vinyl is secured, start using your wood burning gel and apply it as instructed in the packaging.  Be sure to wear gloves to keep your skin safe, and try not to get it on anything other than your project.

When you are done with that, let the gel dry just a bit.  Once it’s pretty dry, you can remove the vinyl (again with gloves, and be careful).  Now, you’re ready to go to the heat stage step.

Using a heat gun, or a high temp hair dryer, go over each letter until you see it start to burn.  Be sure to not leave the heat on the same spot for very long, or the other parts will start to get a burn mark, as well.  Once you get started and see one letter start burning, you’ll get the idea on what to do.

Once you have the board completely heat treated, that part will be finished.  You can make some changes by sanding any areas that got a bit too burned, etc.  Just be careful, because that will take everything off.  Once complete, you can either use a food safe clear coat, melt some beeswax over it and rub in evenly to cure, or any other method you know of that is safe.  If you’re only using this for decor and not really in the kitchen, then you could even just spray it with a clear spray paint.

What do you think of this craft?  I hope you like it!  Please take a minute to leave me a comment on what you would like to create, and maybe if you have any tips on how to do it different, or better!  Okay, now I have to head over to YouTube to watch the video again and sing along!

Be sure to tweet, pin, share, etc. – thanks!!

Affiliate links for Amazon are used on my site. This means that when you click on a link, and make a purchase, I earn a commission for that purchase. There is no extra charge for you, it’s just their sites way of saying thank you for helping them get a customer. I use affiliate links to help fund my crafting budget, as well as help provide for our home.

The post Woodburning Chopping Board Craft (DIY) appeared first on TigerStrypes Blog.