Many citizens of the world make crafts, for work or just for fun. A new craze that sprung up recently across the web is “Do It Yourself” crafts, or DIY for short. Since the long winter months are seemingly here to stay, here are some fun DIY projects to keep busy with.

No. 1: Cinnamon Candle

This simplistic candle has a sweet and spicy smell that’s a great accent to lighten any holiday.The creation of this candle is as easy as one,two three. First, take any candle, preferably non-scented, that has at least a three inch diameter. Run hot glue down the side of a cinnamon stick and press lightly. Light the wick and take sniff, it should smell just like winter.

Anyone who has tried this craft loved it.

Antioch community member Tiffany Patterson said, “I just love how the house smelt after several hours.”

No. 2: Cup with a Message

Another great seasonal DIY is a tea or coffee cup with a message. Just grab a tea cup and a permanent marker, write a message or draw picture anywhere on the cup. Place it in the oven for 30 minutes at 350℉ to make the writing permanent. This craft is perfect for sitting by the fire late at night.

No. 3: Mason Jar Lights

Luminaries that really accentuate the winter season are hard to find. Instead, try a DIY version. Grab an empty mason jar, some modge podge and a bag of epsom salt. Paint a light coat of modge podge on the mason jar, roll on some epsom salt and slap on another coat of modge podge. The light is so soft and elegant it is suitable for all year long.

No. 4: Bird Feeder Wreath

Help feed feathery friends with a bird feeder wreath. All that is needed is a circular mold, thick ribbon, bird seed and melted suet. It takes about an hour to make a little gift for migrating friends, hopefully they’ll say ‘thanks’ by not pooping on any car.

No. 5: Sockmen

It is too chilly to go outside and make a real snow man, and a lot of in-home snowmen take hours of effort to make. Thankfully there are easy DIY sockmen made with items lying around the house. Materials include a pair of clean socks, map pins, rubber bands, rice, buttons, hot glue gun, old fabric and some scissors. These sockmen only take about 10-15 minutes and they are adorable. Make a little family and place them on  the mantel, everyone will ask where they are from.

They say money can’t buy happiness, but it sure can buy craft supplies. So, enjoy these fun DIY winter crafts and include the whole family.