My name is Benetta Strydom and I am from sunny South Africa. I started writing craft articles in May 2011 and I am glad that I found a platform for some of my crafts here on
Thriftyfun! I feel blessed to be part of this community!
Lace Frill Sock Christmas AngelTurn a girl's cotton lace frill sock into a sweet little Christmas angel. A great way to use a mismatched sock for something useful.
Love Grows Valentine CardThis Valentine's Day, celebrate your love for your significant other with this easy card. Using a printout of a tree and hearts punched from an old calendar page, this card is also easy on the pocket.
Sugarbush (Protea) Adult Coloring PageThe protea is one of South Africa's most famous flowers. It is also called a sugarbush. The protea flower, which represents change and hope, is a local favorite in wedding bouquets. It is definitely one of my personal best-loved flowers.
Thrifty Gift Wrap with Food ColoringI love putting in effort when wrapping a gift, but at the same time, I don't like spending money on gift wrap. The gift wrap usually ends up in the dustbin, so I will rather look at thrifty ways of wrapping a gift without having to spend too much on the wrapping itself.
Elements of Nature Fall WreathTurn faux nature elements into a beautiful wreath for the fall season.
Finch NestsAfter an unusually cold winter here in South Africa, it is a blessing to start seeing signs that the seasons are changing. Our apricot tree is sporting its first few small blossoms, and the days are slowly getting warmer. This morning I noticed these finch nests hanging from a tree in our neighbor's garden.
Double Delight Chocolate CakeTurn a gluten free muffin mix into a nice treat for a Sunday afternoon, or make it when you entertain your friends. This chocolate cake has a subtle hint of coffee and whiskey, which adds to the rich flavor. Served with an extra dollop of dairy free dessert topping, this cake will make your guests think that you bought it at the local coffee shop.
Color Explosion Summer WreathCelebrate the summer colors seen in nature with this wreath! Made from cupcake liners that were dipped in food coloring, this wreath is not only colorful, but also easy on the budget.
Flames of Love Tie Dye T-ShirtOur economy in South Africa has been hit by a rough patch. I love clothes that are unique, but most clothing items have just become too expensive. Here is a great way to add a modern touch to a cheap white T-shirt, without breaking the bank in the process.
White and Gold Upcycled Bottle Christmas AngelUpcycle an empty glass bottle into a beautiful angel for Christmas. With a gold and white dress, and white glitter wings, this angel will add a touch of glamour to your Christmas decorations.
Fridge Milk TartOne of my fondest childhood memories was when my mom, my sisters and I prepared baked goodies for Christmas. My favorite was when we made melktert (milk tart). Melktert is a famous South African delicacy, part of our food heritage.
Christmas Reindeer HeadbandWho says you can't have fun during Christmas time? Make this cute reindeer headband and wear it to any social events you attend during Christmas time. A great way to bring festive cheer to the occasion! Whoo-hoo!
Cute Little Paper Bird CraftHere is a cute craft for the summer months! This little bird will look great as party décor when hosting a garden party. This fella' is quick to make, so you can have a whole flock of birds to help you to celebrate in style. You can make the birds in different colors to add a fun element.
Baby Dove on NestA pair of doves made a nest under the roof of our veranda. It has been incredible, watching them from day 1 when they started to build the nest, seeing mom sitting on the eggs and eventually, the first time we saw her bringing food to feed the little ones. I took the photo this morning when the mom flew off to find food.
Watercolor Roses Birthday CardBring out the artist in you when you make this beautiful watercolor birthday card!
Raised Salt Fall Kids' ArtworkLately I have started using food colorings with the kids in my art class, as it is more cost effective and adds bolder colors to the end product. Combining food colorings with salt and glue offers a great technique for kids to explore their own creativity.
Bunch of Flowers Birthday CardTurn basic craft material into a delightful birthday card. Decorated with flowers, this card is sure to make the recipient feel special.
Bunch of Newspaper RosesIf you love flowers, but can't afford the real McCoy, then these DIY flowers are just what you need. Turn newspapers and pompoms into flowers. Displayed in a suitable glass vase, you will have flowers in your house that will last a long time, without breaking the bank in the process. You can make as many roses as you want!