Homemade Craft Supplies

I was taking a look at my craft supply today only to realize I am running low and need to restock, the problem is I don't want to spend a bunch of money. So what do you do? Well the best thing to do is to make your own supplies. Here are a few of my go to craft recipes:

Paper Mache Paste

• 1 litre of water
• 1/4 cup salt
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup white glue

1. In a saucepan bring the water to a boil and then remove from heat. Stir in the salt and then begin adding the flour a little bit at a time. Stir constantly to prevent clumping, once it is completely combined add in the glue. 

2. Let cool and use when ready. Now you can make a pinata or decorations of any kind. Store leftover paste in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Paper Glue

• 1 cup cornstarch
• 3 cups water
• 4 tbsp corn syrup
• 2 teaspoons vinegar

1. Mix and cook 1/2cup cornstarch, 1 1/2 cups water, syrup and vinegar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens. 

2. In a separate bowl stir together remaining 1/2 cup cornstarch and 1/2 cup water. Combine with the heated mixture. Use when cooled, this glue is perfect for almost any craft and when you have no glue whip up a batch of your own for next to nothing. 

Fingerpaints

• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 cups cold water
• 6 small plastic containers with lids
• Food Coloring

1. In a small saucepan combine the cornstarch and water. Bring to a boil over high heat stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. 

2. Divide mixture among the six containers and add food coloring to each one. Stir until the colors are combined, bright and ready for paper!