Crafty Manolo

(Magnet available from Zazzle)

Sometimes it’s fun to wander the web and see what goodies we can find to try out for free in the crafting world. Whether it’s a new craft entirely or a new technique in something we’ve done before, or just a fun variation, there’s always something fun and free out there. But don’t just take my word for it! Here are a few examples to whet your appetite for crafty goodness online.

Mosaic Patterns Online features a new free pattern each month. This month it’s your choice of this gorgeous butterfly or a really spiffy dragonfly. Oh, and if you download the free pattern, you can also get a discount on some of the supplies for making it a reality.

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I love reverse applique.

Whether it’s an elaborate South American mola like the one pictured above, or a simpler piece,

like this clever  set of instructions from Craftzine on how to use the technique to repair a ripped or stained shirt, the principle is the same. You take layers of cloth, and cut down to the layer you want for each individual part of the design. Once you’ve got your motifs cut, you bind the raw edges.

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