DIY: Don’t throw away old socks turn them into cute decorative pumpkins with this easy craft idea
Every home has that one drawer of odd socks: the ones with a missing partner, a thin heel or a stretched-out cuff that never quite recovered. Before they head to the bin, consider giving them a cosy second life. With a little rice, a few rubber bands and some thread, an old sock can become a soft, round decorative pumpkin that looks lovely on a festive shelf, a dining table or a window ledge. It costs next to nothing, takes under half an hour and is a fun project to try with children. Here is a simple five-step way to make sock pumpkins at home. You need very little for this craft. Pick a clean, stretchy sock in orange, yellow, rust or any warm shade you like, though a plain cotton one works best. Keep about a cup of uncooked rice, a few sturdy rubber bands, a needle and thread, scissors, and a small stick, cinnamon stick or twig for the stem. Some green felt or ribbon makes a pretty leaf. Choose a sock without holes, since any gaps will let the rice spill out. Lay everything on a flat surface before you begin.
Once finished, remove the rubber bands if you like, or leave them on and tuck them beneath a decorative twine wrap for a rustic look. Arrange a few pumpkins in different sizes and colours in a basket, on a mantel or alongside diyas and flowers for a festive centrepiece. Keep them away from damp spots, direct heat and open flames. They also make charming handmade gifts. Stored in a dry box, they will stay soft and bright for the next season.