Snowy Pine Branch, Bird & Berries Swag

Simple to make and looks like you brought the outside in after a snow storm.  I saw a similar swag in a retail store for $30.00.  With my coupon, I went to Michaels and was able to get all the supplies I needed for under $20.00.  The snow was purchased from Wal-Mart.

Supplies:

2-4 pine branches, depending on how full you want the swag

Christmas picks with pine cones, icy branches and berries.

A bird of choice.  I used a Cardinal to coordinate with the berries.

Wire

Hot glue gun & glue sticks

1 can of snow

Cut the ends of the branches, if necessary, to eliminate the bulk.

Gather together and secure it with wire.  

Trim and wire all picks, if necessary.  Use the glue gun for smaller pieces.  Make a look with the wire and attach to the back for hanging.

When you have the swag assembled to please you, spray with snow, following directions on the can.  Spray heavier on the ends.  Let dry in between layers.

Hang over a doorway or a window and enjoy!

Don't forget to use your coupons for further savings!

Happy Holidays!

Pine Wall Shelves Upcycled with AS Chalk Paint

I purchased 2 simple unfinished pine shelves from the thrift shop for $5 each.  I painted each one with AS Chalk Paint in Aubusson Blue.  Afterwards I applied a dry brush of Paris Grey to tone down the blue and finished them off with a coat of clear wax.  When the wax was dry I buffed it to a nice sheen with a cloth.

The back is unfinished in this photo to show the "before" appearance.

After

The shelves each had 2 2-1/2"  wood screws through the front to attach to the wall.  Once hung, I covered the screw heads with ephemera I had in my craft room to make them more attractive.

Very easy project for very little money and they look great hanging on my den wall displaying my photography.