Inside the February 2009 Issue

Last-Minute Gift Ideas!

This issue features an array of designs appropriate for this
gift-giving season. As you look through the pages, keep in mind
that in addition to painting the projects as shown, many of these designs
may be adapted to a wide variety of surfaces.

Considering today’s economy, it’s time for many of us to fine-tune our gift list. With brush in hand, there are numerous ways you can create attractive, economical, gifts for family and friends.

Why not think in terms of gift baskets? The container itself can be the hand-painted part of your gift. Many of the projects in this issue can be used in themed gift baskets, and be sure to look to past issues of Quick & Easy Painting as well. I encourage you to think creatively and come up with some inspiring gift ideas of your own. Here are just a few to get you started!
 
Gifts for the Kitchen
Purchase a basket or tin at your local department or hobby store and fill with cookies, a pair of hand-painted coffee mugs, and complete your Christmas gift with a hand-painted gift tag or maybe a hand-painted ornament. Another alternative is to wrap a loaf of homemade nut bread in clear plastic wrap and place it on a breadboard (with a hand-painted design on the reverse side) together with a bread knife.
 
Time for Tea!
Purchase an assortment of soothing herb tea bags and some teacups, and pair them up with our hand-painted coasters. You can even include a hand-painted teapot or beverage thermos.
 
A Set for the Desk
Customize a desk set with a painted design—stapler, stapler remover, pencil/pen holder, notepad holder, paper clip holder, and more.
 
For the Birds
Paint a birdfeeder and present it with birdfeed, and perhaps a bird book. Our Winter Ornament Trio would be a perfect choice for this grouping.
 
Relax in the Bath
I’ve received several of these gifts over the years, and you don’t have to go to high-end department stores to purchase items to place inside the basket. Choose from hand and body creams, soaps, foot soaks, mini facial treatments, bath sponges—the list is endless! Paint a decorative storage container for these items and present a practical, attractive gift.
 
Time to be Creative!
You can keep your gift baskets simple or make them as lavish as you wish. Presentation means everything, so carefully wrap your basket in clear or decorative holiday cellophane.
 
Remember, a personalized gift reflects your creative expression and appreciation for those you care about. Hand-painted gifts from the heart will be held dear for years to come.

Have a Wonderful Holiday!
Linda R. Heller, Editor

Looking for that Special Holiday Gift?

Celebrate St. Nicholas
The Decorative Arts Collection and All American Crafts Publishing proudly present this stunning collection of hand-painted, carved St. Nicholas figurines – each is a celebration of the man of the season. Forty-three St. Nicks are featured – twenty with complete lessons so you can create your own!

Click here for book details and ordering information.