Summer days are finally here! It's time to get out and enjoy the warm weather. It's also a great time of year to take advantage of flea-market/garage sale shopping. In this issue you'll find a unique way to transform inexpensive castaways into an unexpectedly lovely window box. You'll also find great ideas with which to spruce up your home with garden inspired designs.

July is also the month in which we celebrate our nation's independence. Keeping to budget, you can create the perfect centerpiece that can be used year-after-year using inexpensive materials.

From summer inspirations to great gift giving ideas, it's time to get started on these great FREE projects—it's no secret, so be sure to welcome your friends!

Enjoy!

Frame and Drawer Window Box

Scour your local flea market for these simple materials to create a beautiful front door planter. Crafted from half of an old drawer, a frame, and some vintage letters and numbers, this planter will be the center of all attention on your front porch. (More...)

Cross-Stitched
Butterfly Jar Wrap

Summer is here and what better way to celebrate this wonderful season than with a brightly designed summer votive jar. Hang it from a tree or use it as a centerpiece, its design is perfect for the season. You can even fill it with your favorite candy treats as great gift giving idea. (More...)

For even more fabulous cross-stitching projects, visit www.thecrossstitchermagazine.com

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Message in a Bottle Dips

Use a recycled four-pack wine carton and bottles to create the perfect summer gift. Fill each bottle with dry dip mix ingredients, decorate the bottles with matted fabric seashells and the carton with inexpensive themed scrapbooking paper, for a truly clever one-of-a-kind fantastic gift idea. (More...)

Special: Dip mix recipes

Smell the Roses Hanger

Hang this gorgeous catch-all hanger made of crafted clay roses on your door for a burst of summer delight! Use it to hang keys, totes, dried flowers, or even summer ornaments. Its message is a simple reminder to take advantage of the summer and one of nature's wondrous gifts. (More...)

Uncle Sam's Centerpiece and Table Favors

Start your Fourth of July celebration with a bang! When preparing for a patriotic celebration, don't forget to set your picnic or buffet table with a thematic centerpiece. This colorful centerpiece and favor set will make a proud Americana accent for any Fourth of July celebration! (More...)

Crafts ’n things® On the Newsstand now:

• Beach Chic — Create a relaxing beachside retreat even if you don't live by the ocean.
• Flea Market Style — Discover oodles of inspiring ideas for your flea market and garage sale finds.
• Cards • Stamps • Style — Summer fun is in full swing! Paper projects are perfect for summertime—fun, bright, and portable!

For more ideas found in this issue click here.

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