Beach in a Jar

I recently wanted a gift for a friend, which would bring the beach to her house. Thanks to my husband's hotdog obsession, I have quite a collection of these large simple jars, and they seemed ideal to fill with beachy finds.

I simply filled the jar part way with sand, which can be tipped out and played with or left inside. I collected some stones and shells from my local beaches too - these can also be played with, or arranged in the jar to create a beachy scene. The jar can be arranged upright or on it's side, and extra feathers and driftwood and anything else can be added as it is collected!

As well as bringing the beach to people who may not get out very much, these would make a great memory jar for a beach holiday, and a way to present all the little finds that beaches just seem to present to hands!

Tried and Tested Tip Number 10 [Paint Palette]

When you've got your acrylic paints out for a painting session, what do you use for a palette? When I was younger and needed a paint palette I used to use lids from margerine tubs, and the such like. But on a painting course a few years ago, I was offered an ingenious solution - a white plate!

 

I think this one cost me the huge sum of 20p in Woolworths closing down sale! But it's been my friend ever since.

I like to use the edges to put my paint directly on...

And the middle for mixing! I certainly would never go back. Such a cheap and effective solution to a paint palette - and yes, it often does end up completely full! It's also easy to clean, but more on that next time...

So, what do you use as a palette?