Just before Christmas, I received the xTool P2 CO2 laser cutter and engraver to review, and once the testing was done, I couldn’t wait to dive into a creative project of my own. As a huge steampunk fan, it seemed only fitting that my first personal project would be a Steampunk TV Tray Makeover using the xTool P2 laser. With this new tray, I can now enjoy dinner on the couch in true steampunk style, without having to balance a plate on my lap.
Are you like me, someone who is sitting on the fence when it comes to deciding whether investing in a laser cutter is a good idea or not? There are so many questions that come to mind, such as whether it’s worth the money, how easy it is to use the software, and whether it’s possible to make money with the laser. In today’s post, I will share my thoughts and experiences using the xTool P2 CO2 laser.
I am a huge fan of steampunk and never miss an opportunity to combine its industrial beauty with my DIY projects. With Christmas just around the corner, I wanted to create something different—a wooden steampunk Christmas tree made from recycled materials. Steampunk is not a style often associated with Christmas, but its metallic colours, gears, and industrial vibe create an amazing contrast with festive décor. By blending woodwork with mixed media assemblage art, I was able to design a tree that is both unusual and stunning, while keeping true to my love of upcycling.
If you are looking for a quick and easy DIY Halloween project, this spooky DIY skull bottle is perfect. Using simple supplies like an old ceramic bottle, serviettes, and a budget plastic skull, you can create a creepy Halloween decoration that looks like it is dressed in clothes. This project is also beginner-friendly for anyone wanting to try mixed media art assemblage without needing expensive tools or advanced skills.
Have you ever regretted a purchase the moment you saw it in place? That’s exactly what happened to me with these barstools. A few months ago, I built my son a rustic outdoor bar table using recycled decking planks and fencing posts. It turned out beautifully, but I didn’t have enough wood left for stools. Wanting to complete the set, I bought four metal bar stools online for $400. Once assembled, they looked completely wrong next to the table—cheap, mismatched, and disappointing. Returning them wasn’t an option with postage costs sky-high, so I did the next best thing: I gave them a complete makeover.
I am always on the lookout for new ways to recycle everyday household waste, and this project turned out to be one of my favourites. In this tutorial, I’ll show you how I transformed empty drink cans into a Shimmering Aluminium Can Art wall hanging. The design features a wooden star, decorated with small circles cut from recycled aluminium cans.
When the International Bloggers Club set the theme “Rugged Ropes & Twisted Twine,” I knew I wanted a project that anyone could make in an afternoon. Rugged Ropes & Twisted Twine: Easy Rope Wall Art in Frames turns simple macramé rope and thrifted frames into calming, textural wall décor. I trialled the idea on three small frames to let a single flowing pattern travel from one frame to the next—but truthfully, this technique is even easier on a larger canvas. If you love neutral, organic décor (and budget-friendly crafts), this one’s for you.
When a routine clean turned into a disaster and my kitchen light shade shattered, I replaced it with a plain glass one—only to find it disappeared into the ceiling. This post, Greek Key Glow: Cricut Vinyl Light Shade Makeover, shows how I transformed a boring glass shade with Cricut-cut vinyl. When the light switches on, the bold Greek key pattern projects a beautiful glow across the walls and ceiling.. The same method works with any bold geometric.
Looking for DIY outdoor decor that stands out? This giant Shou Sugi Ban wooden gecko climbs the wall with bold texture and gorgeous colour. I upcycled a free sideboard top, burned the timber for dramatic grain, and sealed it so it’s ready for the verandah or patio. One rescued panel. One simple technique. Show-stopping outdoor wall art.
When my son (193 cm/6’4”) asked for a taller table, I designed this Standing-Height Outdoor Bar Table from Decking Timber to suit how he entertains. He prefers to stand and lean while chatting, not perch on stools. I built the table higher for comfort and better posture, with a footrest for long conversations. Leftover decking boards and fence posts kept costs low and reduced waste. We skipped a flimsy $3,000 store-bought leaner and built something solid, custom, and made to last.
In this Upcycled Chair Spa Towel Rack tutorial, I transform a broken antique chair into a wall-mounted towel holder with a spa-themed decal made on my Cricut. The idea came from a very real problem—our two cheeky Jack Russell terriers kept stealing the spa towels from the steps and turning them into tug-of-war ropes. While I plan a pergola, this quick project keeps towels tidy, dry, and off the ground.
Want to turn heads with a show-stopping, steampunk-inspired display? In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make feather angel wings using real feathers, recycled materials, and basic tools. These shapable wings were designed to complete my steampunk mannequin makeover, but they’d be perfect for cosplay, costume parties, or mixed-media art installations.
