Things To Make and Do

Assistant Editor Jordan Kushins: I’d love to make more time to make more things in the new year, and could definitely use a nudge or two in the right direction. DIY inspiration really is the gift that keeps on giving, so here’s a few projects and kits to kick off a creative renaissance.

Gingerbread Ale Kit

Made by: Brooklyn Brew Shop
Price: $40.00-55.00

What a tasty way to play mad (or just tipsy) scientist, concocting your own strange brew in the comfort of your kitchen. The good folks at the Brooklyn Brew Shop have put together this great DIY kit, which only takes up a foot or so of space on the counter, but will bring many pints of joy into your home.

More info: brooklynbrewshop.com

Wallpaper Projects: More than 50 Craft and Design Ideas for Your Home, from Accents to Art

Available at: The Curiosity Shoppe
Price: $22.95

So. Many. Projects. It’s tough to flip through this book and not want to completely re-imagine your place in prints and patterns. Authors Derek Fagerstrom and Lauren Smith own the Curiosity Shoppe, one of my favorite stores in San Francisco, and they’ve got super taste, so this should be a handy guide for years to come.

More info: curiosityshoppeonline.com

Wall Bubble Terrarium Kit

Made by: Flora Grubb Gardens
Price: $33.00

I’ve wanted to put together a small terrarium for a while now, and San Francisco green thumb Flora Grubb has made it so easy! This kit comes with a wall-bound glass terrarium, plant, and pumice.

More info: floragrubb.com

Make Your Own Monster Kit

Designed by: Donna Wilson
Price: $15.00

Scottish textile designer extraordinaire Donna Wilson does some pretty wonderful things with wool. Her site has a selection of blankets and little plush toys, along with this great Make Your Own Monster kit, which features a creature form, stuffing, and sew-on accessories.

More info: donnawilson.com

Return to Me Necklace

Designed by: Return To Me
Price: $80.00-95.00
Colors: 24k gold plated, silver plated

Return to Me’s high-design DIY necklace comes with your choice of silver or 24k gold plated piece, needlepoint needle, thread, and threader, plus practice templates and directions, then it’s up to you to design an awesome pattern that suits your style.

More info: returntome.co.uk

Pin-hole Solargraphy Camera

Made by: Kikkerland
Price: $10.00
Colors: black

I’d love to take a sunny weekend afternoon to put together this pinhole camera, then head out into the neighborhood and take some pics. It’s super easy to assemble and use, and would be a nice change of pace from the instant gratification of digital.

More info: kikkerlandshop.com

Letterpress Box Set

Designed by: Stacy Pancake
Made by: Pancake & Franks
Price: $70.00

When I was little, my mom always had a nifty stash of notes at home for pretty much any occasion, and I loved being able to root around in the drawer for something special to send. Now, I’d like to be better at picking up a pen and paper to say hello. I love that Stacy Pancake, of San Francisco’s very own Pancake & Franks, has put together this fantastic handmade box-set of 30 letterpress greetings. What a great collection to keep in touch with pals!

More info: pancakeandfranks.com

Engrave Your Book

Made by: Engrave Your Book
Price: $60.00

The ubiquitous Moleskine gets a unique new identity with these very cool leather covers from Engrave Your Book. There’s an extensive selection of neat designs from artists around the globe, or you can send in an image of your own that will be etched on a customized cover. When you’ve filled a notebook, just transfer the cover to the next one you’re using; These will only get better looking with a little loving wear and tear.

More info: engraveyourbook.com

Wooden Button Set

Available at: ReForm School
Price: $28.00

Billie and Tootie, the lovely owners of Silverlake’s ReForm School, have gathered together buttons from artisans around the world into this perfect little set. They come together in a little pouch, and would make awesome embellishments on a canvas bag, sweater, or displayed in a small bowl at home.

More info: reformschoolrules.com