Cutting thin curved plastic and resin model surfaces can be problematic. Czech Master Kits make special finely toothed razor blades which allow you to cut open canopies, glove boxes and other small curved sections to create openings with very narrow gaps or kerfs. The blades can be adapted to use as fine flush cut saws for flat surfaces.
The blades are a standard razor blade size and CMK (as well as Unique Master Models or UMM) sell special handles to fit them. These blades make it easy to cut softer plastics and resin without damaging small parts.
Photo copyright 2009 Lesley Shepherd, Licensed to About.com Inc.
Admire miniatures all year long with this 2010 free printable calendar. You still have time to print one to stuff a stocking, or as a small gift for a friend who loves miniatures!
The calendar prints out with two months to a letter size page and features projects found on this site. It's size means it should fit neatly in the tight spaces most craftspeople work in!
Photo copyright 2009 Lesley Shepherd, Licensed to About.com Inc.
I've added a new show and tell project to the site this morning. Share Your Best Miniature Bash lets you tell us how you modify kits or basics to create new pieces for your collection.
I've also posted a new Gallery of Ideas for Scale Building Exteriors. The murals on the foundation of Deborah Heitmann's dollhouse were the inspiration for the new community gallery. If you have some great ideas for building exteriors, please submit your photos so we can benefit from your great ideas!
Lots of last minute ideas for decorations and gifts in this week's set of Make it Merry Contributions . Try your hand at any of these for last minute ideas that still look great!
Victorian Snow Day
Put together a mixed media portrait using crafting scraps and this tutorial from Margot Potter.
Cookies in a Jar
Fun article with recipes and gift tags for making cookies in a jar.
Christmas Crackers
Make your own Christmas crackers this year (don't forget to add your favorite terrible joke for an authentic touch)!
Striped Stocking
A stocking knit in tow colors on large needles is a quick and easy way to hold gifts for the holiday. Use traditional Christmas colors or make one with stripes of the colors of your favorite sports team.
Crocheted Wire Necklace
If you can string stone nuggets onto wire, and if you can crochet a simple chain stitch, then you can make this pretty necklace. Visit Beading Arts for the instructions!
Stained Glass Votives
Here's a great easy project that's perfect for kids and fun for adults! We spend lots of time making great votive candles, why not dress them up even more with hand made votive holders?
Skating Penguin Cartoon
Add a cute penguin to your holiday cards with this step-by-step drawing tutorial from Helen South.
Lampwork Snowman Earrings
Use a few wire techniques to turn two lampwork snowmen beads into some holiday jewelry. These literally take minutes to make.
Greeting Card Album
Recycle a greeting card and create a holiday album using materials you already have around the house.
Cut Paper Trees
These three dimensional stand up cut paper trees can be used for table decorations or winter scenes. They're cut just like snowflakes from regular paper.
Christmas Tree Seed Bead Earrings
If you're in a pinch for some holiday cheer upon your ears, then these simple seed bead earrings are just the holiday miracle you've been looking for. With just a little wire and a handful of beads, these can be made in just minutes.
Gingerbread Ornaments
When you don't have the fragrance of a real Christmas tree, fake scents just don't do it. Make a batch of these ornaments every few years and hang them from your tree, the scent will last for two or three years!
Want to Join Make it Merry to show off your holiday crafts? We will showcase your crafts and recipes of all holiday traditions. Learn more.
