Five DIY Witch Crafts on a Budget

Lets get Crafty!

1. The Pyramid Plant

Are you a plant lover who can't get enough of greenery in your home? Do you have plants covering most of your furniture in your living room? Do you dream of having a jungle-like atmosphere in your space? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then I have a great DIY idea for you: turn a tomato cage into a plant stand!

All you need is a tomato cage, some twine, and a vining plant of your choice. You can use any plant that has long and flexible stems, such as a philodendron or a string of pearls. The idea is to create a pyramid-shaped structure that will support and showcase your plant.

First, flip the tomato cage upside down and tie the three legs together with twine. This will form the tip of the pyramid. Then, place the cage in the pot with the plant and you may want to bury it a little in the dirt to help disguise it. Next, while whispering reassurances to the plant, gently wrap the vines around the wire frame. You can weave them in and out as you like and leave some hanging for a more natural look. The goal is to cover as much of the cage as possible with foliage.

And voila! You have just made a beautiful and unique plant stand that will add height and interest to your space. You can make several of these and arrange them in different corners of your room to create a cozy and inviting vibe. Enjoy your new plant friends!

2. Apothecary Jar Labels

Spice up your spice cabinet by transferring them into some unique glass jars and making some interesting labels. Alright, my fellow kitchen witches, if you haven't already done this, you're going to LOVE how this looks every time you open your spice cabinet! Check out the photo above of my cabinet for some inspiration! 

You don't have to spend a fortune on fancy jars, either. You can find some amazing bargains at thrift stores, where you never know what hidden gems you might discover. And if the jar doesn't have a good spot for a label, just tie a ribbon around it with a cute tag.

Now, for the fun part; making the labels! You can use your computer and printer to create some professional-looking stickers, or you can go old-school and draw them by hand. I love researching the health benefits and magic correspondences of spices and herbs and including some key information on the labels. For example, did you know that cinnamon is good for blood sugar and also for attracting love? Or that oregano is a powerful antioxidant and also a great way to ward off negative energy? You can also add botanical pictures or other designs to dress up your labels. Modge podge has a glue made specifically for glass and if you paint it on the outside of the label – it gives it a good finished look. Have fun with it and enjoy your new and improved spice cabinet!

3. Spruce Up Your Wardrobe

Photo credit: vipfashionaustralia.com

Are you tired of having clothes that you never wear because they are boring, ugly, or just plain don’t fit right? Well, don't worry, because I have the perfect solution for you: cut them up! Yes, you heard me right, you can turn your old clothes into magical outfits with some sharp scissors and just a few simple steps. The beauty of this project is that you don't really lose, even if you mess it up beyond repair and end up laughing at yourself in the mirror after you try it on... at least you had a good laugh before donating it or turning it into a cleaning rag!

First, find some clothes that you don't like and try them on. Figure out what's wrong with them and how you can fix them.  Is the shirt too small?  You can split it down one seam on the side and sew or use double sided tape to add some lace or other neat fabric to it to make it stylish and better fitting. Do you hate the sleeves? Cut them off or add lace to ends for a lovely decoration. Is the skirt or pants too short for your liking? Add some additional fabric or lace to the bottom to add length. Is the T-shirt too bulky looking? Cut it up! Try slicing the sides or back to make neat designs or cut out shapes by drawing them on with chalk. While you're at it, you can also draw some meaningful symbols or words on the fabric or add a secret inside pocket for your favorite crystal or potion. 

Skull Pattern T-shirt: Fold your t-shirt in half the weird way with the creases down the middle of the front and back and draw your pattern on with chalk on one side and cut it out to acheive a symmetrical pattern.

If you don't want to sew, there is a magical two sided tape that can be found at your local craft store and ironed on. Ok, I just realized most of these suggestions involve adding lace to everything.  Hmm... well, black lace is an important part of any witch’s' wardrobe so when you're at the thrift store, be sure to pick up some lace or borrow it from those uncomfortable bras that you don't wear. ;) By upcycling clothes you already own you're saving money and helping the environment!

4. Paint Some Rocks!

I love the idea of painting rocks and leaving them for others to discover. This idea is inspired by my mom, who used to do the same thing when hiking near the waterfalls in the Pacific NW. She said it was a way of spreading joy and magic to strangers.

You can make your own painted rocks with words or symbols that mean something to you, like the ones in the pictures. Use fine tip permanent markers or paint that won't wash off easily, and put them in a decorative tray, your garden, or secretly leave ones for friends and family to find in their yard. You can also choose symbols that have protective power, like Hecate's Wheel or the Evil Eye, or beautiful patterns like mandalas, trees, the moon and a Moon Goddess.

5.  Make Your Own Chamomile Oil Potion for Skincare

Making your own skincare products is so much fun! You get to choose what goes into them, and you can save money and avoid nasty chemicals at the same time. The only thing you need to watch out for is how long they last. You can either make small batches that you use up quickly, or add some natural preservatives like vitamin E oil or rosemary extract to keep them fresh longer. And of course, you want to make sure everything is clean and organic, so you don't end up introducing any microbial growth or spoiling and preventing skin infections.  

One thing I always do before I start making any potions is to boil my tools and jars in water to kill any bacteria. I also wear gloves and work on a clean surface. That way, I know my products are safe and hygienic.

Chamomile oil has many surprising benefits and has been used for centuries to help with various health conditions. The ancient Egyptians associated it with the sun god and many cultures drink chamomile tea for its relaxing properties.  It has been used as a natural remedy for acne, wrinkles, bruises and burns and makes a lovely face wash when diluted with a carrier oil.  

I recommend making a small batch with a 3% dilution of the therapeutic grade chamomile essential oil and a certified organic jojoba oil.  I like to use jojoba oil in a pump bottle as it cuts down on the messy drips that run down the side when pouring.  One brand of essential oils to consider is Plant Therapy, their essential oils are superior quality, affordable and many are USDA certified organic.  (Please beware when shopping for essential oils as the quality can vary greatly from one manufacturer to another and don't be fooled into paying the fancy prices and the pyramid schemes that some other companies may operate under.)

 Chamomile Oil Potion Recipe

3 teaspoons of jojoba oil

8 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil

Add 8 drops of chamomile oil to your glass bottle and using a small funnel add 3 tsp. of jojoba oil.  That’s it! Shake and allow it to develop for at least 3 days before using.  If it's stored out of direct sunlight, it should last 6-8 months.  If you're using it as your daily face wash, you'll most likely use it up well before then so a preservative may not be necessary.

P.S. You can make your own chamomile oil extract by putting half a cup of dried chamomile flowers in a jar and covering them in olive or grapeseed oil. Store the jar in a dark cabinet and shake it up daily for a couple of weeks to infuse. You can then add a few drops of any other essential oils that are good for your skin to it such as tea tree or frankincense oil and use this potion as your daily face wash. Enjoy!

This recipe is for educational purposes only, is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and has not been evaluated by the FDA.  Please consult with your doctor if you are breastfeeding or pregnant before use.

If you do any of these crafts, please share a photo on IG or FB page and tag me @forestandfolkloreshop, I'd love to see your masterpieces!