Howcast
The best source for fun, free, and useful how-to videos and guides.
Aspiring animator? Learn a few fun animation techniques with these videos.
All you need are a few apples and some basic arts and crafts tools to tackle the fun and easy projects in this apple crafts video series from Howcast.
Learn circular knitting — also known as knitting in the round — from expert Jessica Kaufman in these Howcast videos.
Kids driving you crazy? Settle them down with the fun and easy art projects in this craft ideas for kids video series from Howcast.
Already know how to knit? Learn how to crochet with the crocheting lessons in this Howcast video series.
Learn how to use a digital camera and pick up some digital photography tips and techniques with these Howcast videos.
Take a crash course in digital photography from commercial photographer Dan Bracaglia with these Howcast videos.
Got a roll of duct tape? Then you’ve got hours of arts and crafts fun ahead of you with the duct tape crafts in this Howcast video series.
Get ready to celebrate Easter with this Howcast video series on how to decorate Easter eggs, make bunny ears, and pull together other Easter crafts.
All you need is a needle, thread, some fabric, and these step by step instructions to start sewing.
Increase your flower power with the easy flower crafts in this Howcast video series.
Learn about glassblowing from pros Todd Hansen and Ed Donovan in these Howcast videos.
Into arts and crafts? Check out the great craft ideas in this Howcast video series.
Makeup artist Kenneth Llambelis helps you create classic Halloween characters with the step-by-step instructions in these Howcast makeup tutorials.
Make sure Dad has a very happy Father’s Day with the ideas in this Howcast video series.
Make floral arrangements that rival those of a professional florist with help from this Howcast video series on flower arranging.
Pick up tips about how to become a professional artist in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to crochet with these Howcast tutorials featuring Andrea Lemire of Lion Brand Yarn Studio.
Learn how to paint a picture or design on someone’s face with the step-by-step instructions in these Howcast videos.
Pick up some great graffiti tips, tricks, and techniques from master tagger Paes 164 in these Howcast videos.
Check out the no-sew ways to make a blanket, scarf, tutu and more from crafty Jennifer Wiese in these Howcast videos.
Master the ancient art of Japanese paper folding with the step-by-step instructions in these tutorials.
Learn how to make fake cuts, blood, and other gore from special effects makeup artist Ciara Rose Griffin in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to do stop motion animation courtesy of Joe Vena of NYC’s Children’s Museum of the Arts in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to draw dogs, cats, leaves, flowers, fruit, grass, people, water, and much more from artist Rebecca Schweiger in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to sketch and illustrate with these video tutorials, which will have you drawing celebrities like Katy Perry and Justin Bieber in no time.
From figures and croquis to specs and clothing, learn to draw fashion sketches from fashion designer Garo Sparo in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to draw with the drawing lessons in this Howcast video series.
Budding graffiti artists and experienced taggers alike can learn something about how to tag from master tagger Paes 164 in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to draw manga with the step-by-step instructions from artist Chris Hart in these Howcast art tutorials.
Learn how to do all kinds of knitting stitches with the step-by-step instructions in these knitting tutorials from Howcast.
Learn how to make balloon animals from magician Jonas Cain in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to make friendship bracelets from The Lanyard Ladies in these Howcast videos.
Put together a great Halloween costume with the ideas in this Howcast video series.
Whether you want to scare trick-or-treaters or entertain them, there’s an idea for you in this frightfully good video series.
Learn how to make jewelry from custom jeweler and sculptor Courtney Gray in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to make children’s musical instruments out of stuff you have around the house from the founders of Music Moves Me in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to make origami with these tutorials, which show you how to make an easy origami rose, star, heart, bird, frog, butterfly, and much more.
Learn how to make homemade pop-up cards and crafts with the step-by-step instructions in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to make Rainbow Loom bracelets from The Lanyard Ladies in these Howcast videos.
Making your own soap is inexpensive, easy-to-do, and can be the perfect DIY gift for friends and family.
Let acrylic painting teacher Linda Rhea show you how to paint foliage, landscapes, seascapes, and much more in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to scrapbook with the ideas and techniques demonstrated by expert Carla Sylvester in these scrapbooking tutorials from Howcast.
Learn how to sew from expert seamstress Cynthia Mann in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to take better pictures with these Howcast photography tutorials featuring professional photographer Luke Ballard.
Learn how to take great portraits from professional photographer Joe Sinnott in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to tie dye with the tips, tricks, and techniques demonstrated in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to tie knots with the classic knot tying techniques demonstrated in these Howcast videos.
Do you like velvet Elvis paintings and don’t get abstract art? Then you need this Howcast video series on art appreciation.
Learn how to sew using a sewing machine from designer Jennifer Wiese in these Howcast videos.
Learn how to gift wrap a present like a pro with the tutorials in this Howcast video series.
Grab your needles and yarn and get ready to knit baby gifts, blankets, hats, scarves, and more.
Bring out your inner artist with these painting tips and techniques.
Learn how to make your own jewelry with the jewelry-making techniques demonstrated in these Howcast videos.
For film aficionados and cinema enthusiasts alike.
Transform boring sheets of paper into simple and fun craft projects.
Capture your subject in the best light with these photography tips that cover everything from nature and still-life photography to fashion photography.
Once you get the hang of quilting with these videos, you’ll never buy another blanket again.
Scrapbooking is a fun hobby anyone can get into, even if you don’t consider yourself particularly crafty. So grab some photos and card stock and prepare to scrap!
Learn how to thread a needle more easily and other neat tricks with these Howcast videos.
Learn studio photography tips and tricks from professional photographer Chris Ryan in these Howcast videos.
Instructions Step 1: Make the headband Measure the head of the prospective bunny-ear wearer, and then cut a piece of poster board long enough and wide enough for a band that wraps around the head. You may have to glue strips of poster board to each other to make a long enough band. Glue the …
Instructions Step 1: Put on his hat Take the toe piece and put it on his head, pulling his ears through the slits. Step 2: Go for a walk Take him for a walk so he can show off his spiffy new outfit. Step 3: Remove the top Cut off the top of the sock, …
Instructions Step 1: Slit the stem With your fingernail or knife, make a slit lengthwise in the stem of one daisy about 2″ below the blossom. TIP: Two inches is just a suggestion. The closer you make the slit to the blossom, the denser your chain. Step 2: Thread the stem Thread the stem of …
Instructions Step 1: Find local galleries Go online or check with your local papers to find some local art galleries and when they’re open. Many towns have at least one gallery district of some sort. Step 2: Learn of any free art walks or showings Find out when the art district has free art walks …
Instructions Step 1: Choose your thread Choose appropriate thread for your project. The thread should match both the fiber content and color of your fabric. TIP: If you can’t find an exact color match, use a slightly darker shade–a lighter shade will stand out. Step 2: Choose your needle Choose the right needle. The eye …
Instructions Step 1: Paint them Channel your inner Jackson Pollock by splattering on some fabric paint. You could also design a picture or write your own message to the world. Step 2: Tie-dye them Tie-dye it; this 60s fad never goes out of style. Step 3: Change the sleeves Snip off the sleeves for an …
Instructions Step 1: Steel yourself Steel yourself; getting a large group of people to do anything is hard, and getting them to listen to a photographer is damn near impossible. Step 2: Analyze the group Quickly analyze the group to be shot. Do a mental lineup according to height, affiliations, and order of importance according …
Instructions Step 1: Clean the box Clean out the inside of the oatmeal box, making sure no oatmeal dust or oats are left inside. Step 2: Remove top and bottom Remove the plastic top and bottom from the oatmeal box. Step 3: Glue the bottom Add a bead of white glue around the lip of …
Instructions Step 1: Find a cool room Find a cool room in which to work so your butter doesn’t melt as you sculpt. TIP: Today, Tibetan monks create their works of art in rooms kept at 32° F. Step 2: Pick a subject Pick a subject. Let your mind run wild. Butter sculptors have created …
Instructions Step 1: Sketch a plan of your animation Plan out your animation with sketches. There should be 8 to 12 steps, each representing a frame. TIP: The best animations for a phenakistoscope are cyclical, like a horse galloping or a child jumping rope. Step 2: Draw a circle Anchor your compass point in the …
Instructions Step 1: Decide portrait type Decide what type of portrait you want to take: headshot, bust, torso, three-quarter, or full length. Step 2: Mount camera Mount your camera on the tripod. Step 3: Arrange set Arrange the set to suit your preference. Step 4: Position subject Choose where you want your subject either to …
Instructions Step 1: Fold the paper Hold the paper horizontally. Fold it in half so the left edge meets the right. Unfold, and then fold each side toward each other until they meet in the center. Fold the paper in half again, so that it is split into quarters. Step 2: Crease the folds Fold …
Instructions Step 1: Set up Set up your easel. Step 2: Let the model dress Let the model, who should be dressed and coiffed in the way they want to be immortalized, get comfortable. Step 3: Pose the model Pose the model in a way that is comfortable, but interesting. TIP: Do not let the …
Instructions Step 1: Make different lengths Make intestines of different lengths. When you arrange them, they’ll look more realistic. Step 2: Lubricate and color it Once it’s cooked, drain the spaghetti, transfer it to a big bowl, and pour cooking oil all over it to make it more slippery. Then, add red food coloring until …
Instructions Step 1: Pick stencils Decide what you want to engrave on your glasses. Names or initials? A word like ‘Cheers’? A design? Type search words like ‘monogram,’ ‘alphabet,’ and ‘stencils’ into a search engine, and print out what you like. Step 2: Size them Via a photo-editing web site or with simple software, resize …
Instructions Step 1: Take a deep breath Take a deep breath. Step 2: Discuss images with parent Discuss with the parent or guardian what type of images they want. Step 3: Introduce yourself to child Introduce yourself to the child making sure you use your sweetest, happiest, non-scariest voice that you can possibly muster. Step …
Instructions : Irons and scissors can be dangerous. Never let your child apply iron-on adhesive or cut fabric unsupervised. Step 1: Measure your child First, measure the width of your child’s neck. Then, measure his back from shoulder to shoulder, as well as the distance from the back of his neck to the floor. Step …
Instructions Step 1: Shoot level with subject Shoot level with your subject. Being too far above or below can make your shot impersonal and less interesting. Step 2: Avoid busy backgrounds Keep your subject away from complicated, detailed and distracting backgrounds, even those found naturally. TIP: Watch out for objects that could look like they’re …
Instructions Step 1: Find her good side While introducing yourself to your subject, take a good look at her facial characteristics from all sides – identify her ‘good side.’ Step 2: Flatter her Flatter her. Anything works – even ridiculous compliments. The goal is to keep her relaxed and bring out sincere smiles. Step 3: …
Instructions Step 1: Select subject Select a subject and ask permission to shoot a portrait. Step 2: Select scene Select a scene in which to shoot the person. TIP: You can choose props and locations that help showcase the subject’s personality. Step 3: Attach telephoto lens Attach a long telephoto lens, such as an 80- …
Instructions : Wild animals can be extremely dangerous. Never get out of your safari vehicle to get closer to an animal just for the shot; try using a longer lens. Step 1: Research possible animals Do a little research to find out what type of animals you will most likely encounter. Faster animals call for …
Instructions Step 1: Gather soap odds and ends Accumulate soap odds and ends until you have at least a cupful. Step 2: Soak the slivers Put the slivers into a small saucepan, cover them with water, and let them soak for about a day, stirring the mixture now and then. Step 3: Boil some soap …
Instructions Step 1: Find a floppy Get your hands on an old floppy disk—one that contains metal parts, not plastic. Step 2: Remove the metal Crack open the floppy disk; the rectangular metal part will break away easily. Then peel away the part of the disk surrounding the round metal center. Reserve both metal parts …
Instructions Step 1: Tie string to your camera Take a strong piece of string that is a little longer than you are tall and tie it to the part underneath the camera where it attaches to a tripod. TIP: If you can’t tie the string directly to your camera, tie it to a quarter-inch bolt …
Instructions Step 1: Fold your papers Fold each piece of paper diagonally in half. Fold it in half again to make a triangle. Unfold the paper. Step 2: Cut the papers Using your scissors, cut each piece of paper along one of the fold lines, so that you’ve cut from the edge of the paper …
Instructions Step 1: Choose his good side While introducing yourself to your subject, take a good look at his facial characteristics from all sides–discreetly. Identify his ‘good side,’ but don’t tell him. Step 2: Pick what to enhance or minimize Quickly decide on what features you want to minimize or enhance. Step 3: Reassure him …
Instructions Step 1: Cut a star Draw a star on one side of your contact paper—since you’ll remove this backing in a minute, any lines or mistakes that you make won’t matter. When the star looks like you want it to, cut it out. TIP: You can cut contact paper into any shape you want, …
Instructions Step 1: Combine gesso and water In a plastic mixing bowl, combine gesso and water, according to the instructions on the gesso container. Step 2: Mix Mix vigorously. TIP: Mix the substance thoroughly and smoothly, into a consistency similar to melted chocolate. It should run off the spoon like paint and have no lumps. …
Instructions Step 1: Open photo folder If you have Windows XP, open the folder where photos are stored. If the Picture Task area is not showing on the left side, click Tools, then Folder Options. TIP: Set up a monthly reminder for yourself so you get in the habit of backing up new photos. Step …
Instructions Step 1: Choose the items you want to display The best shadow boxes revolve around a theme, so choose items that relate to each other. TIP: To add visual interest, pick mementos that vary in shape, size, and color. Step 2: Buy a shadow box Shadow boxes come in many different sizes. At your …
Instructions Step 1: Select your model Select a model that is willing to pose for you. TIP: Try to look for models with interesting or unique facial characteristics, for example, large eyes. Step 2: Brief your model Brief your model on the concept and storyline — the more the model understands your idea, the better. …
Instructions Step 1: Flatten box Open the box, remove the four tabs from the notches on the sides, and flatten. Step 2: Cut off tabs Cut off the tabs. Step 3: Mark holes Mark spots for holes on the edge of each flap, spaced evenly apart. Punch the holes. Step 4: Lace ribbon through Feed …
Instructions Step 1: Collect old magnets Collect flexible magnets from friends, relatives, or local merchants who give them out as promotional items. Step 2: Brainstorm new covers Gather materials for the new covers you’d like to use—images from magazines and comic books; family photos; kids’ drawings; stickers; or even cool wallpaper or fabric remnants. TIP: …
Instructions : When wielding a knife, razor blade, saw, or drill, always use extreme caution. Step 1: Halve the tennis ball Take an old tennis ball—one that has lost its bounce—and cut it in half with a knife, scissors, razor blade, or saw. Step 2: Mark out the first foot Take a pen and, at …
Instructions Step 1: Master the basic technique Master the basic wrapping technique: Begin by placing the gift box on the paper, top side down. Fold one end of the wrapping paper over the box to see how much paper you’ll need to completely cover it. Add two inches to that length, and cut the paper …
Instructions Step 1: Try a play on words Try a play on words. While puns are usually the territory of the damned, a clever turn of phrase can inspire a witty, unique costume. Step 2: Pull from current events Pull from current events. Use celebrity gossip, politics, movies, local news items, or other cultural happenings …
Instructions Step 1: Choose pumpkin Choose a pumpkin that’s large and smooth with a stem of at least 2″. If you plan to put a candle inside, choose a gourd that’s at least 9″ tall. TIP: Pumpkins with smaller stems rot quickly. Step 2: Draw circle or hexagon Draw a circle or hexagon on the …
Instructions Step 1: Heat applesauce Heat the applesauce in a frying pain over low to medium heat. Step 2: Stir in gelatin Stir in one packet of unflavored gelatin. Step 3: Add cocoa powder Add a pinch or two of cocoa powder. Step 4: Mix & remove from heat Mix thoroughly and remove from heat. …
Instructions Step 1: Hold knife like a brush Hold the painting knife pretty much the same way you should a paintbrush. TIP: More specifically, hold the knife so it rests atop the inside of all four fingers—not gripped like a baseball bat or a pencil. Step 2: Glob the paint on the canvas Glob the …
Instructions Step 1: Wear comfortable shoes Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be standing most of the time, so happy feet are essential. Step 2: Allow plenty of time Arrive well fed and with plenty of time. Nothing will ruin your day faster than waiting in line at the café and then dashing to see an exhibit …
Instructions Step 1: Silence your cell phone Before entering the building, turn off your cell phone or set it to vibrate. Step 2: Keep kids close If you have children along, remind them not to touch anything and keep them close to you. Step 3: Don’t be loud Do not be loud inside or call …
Instructions Step 1: Pour corn syrup in bowl Pour 16 ounces of light corn syrup into a bowl. Step 2: Add red food coloring Add one tablespoon of red food coloring. Step 3: Mix thoroughly Mix thoroughly. TIP: You can substitute clear cough syrup for the corn syrup. Step 4: Mix in blue & yellow …
Instructions Step 1: Collect all the elements Collect all the elements and props that you’ll need. If you’re missing any of the items, a local toy store and/or second-hand clothing shop should have anything you need. Step 2: Put on basic outfit Put on the jeans, shirt, belt and vest; tie the bandanna around your …
Instructions Step 1: Get supplies Pick up some art supplies. You’ll need drawing paper with a subtle roughness that will allow mediums like charcoal to stick and stay in place, charcoal, soft pencils, square crayons, and erasers. Step 2: Pose your model Pose your model. Take into consideration what parts of her body you’d like …
Instructions Step 1: Pick a show Identify the gallery show or opening you’d like to attend. Write down the date. Step 2: Get to know the artist’s work In the interim before the show, familiarize yourself with the artist’s work. TIP: It also helps to know a little bit about the gallery owner, too. Step …
Instructions Step 1: Pick a formal black outfit Pick an elegant black dress or a formal black suit from your closet, or find one in a used clothing store. Step 2: Secure fangs Buy plastic vampire fangs and a rubber bat from a costume shop. Make sure the fangs fit comfortably over your upper teeth. …
Instructions Step 1: Be a test screener Sign up to be a test screener by contacting Nielsen NRG MovieView. You’ll get to see movies before they’re officially released! Step 2: Attend previews Sign up to attend film previews by contacting Film Metro and/or Campus Circle. Step 3: Look for promoters Be on the lookout for …
Instructions Step 1: Tear duct tape Tear off a foot-long piece of duct tape. Step 2: Slit Make two eye slits in the tape with scissors or a knife. Step 3: Fold over Fold it in half lengthwise, so the sticky side is now completely covered. Step 4: Punch holes Punch holes in both ends …
Instructions Step 1: Decide on type of nude image First decide on what type of nude images you want to shoot. Frontal? Partially obscured? Something else? TIP: Try to imagine that you’ve never seen the human body before and attempt to find new ways to approach this subject. Step 2: Select appropriate model Select a …
Instructions Step 1: Step 1 Doodle before starting. Draw a practice figure or two. It will help give you a feel for your specific equipment. TIP: If you’ve not good at drawing, get some instructional books and practice before trying manga. Step 2: Step 2 Study some manga and note the differences between it and …
Instructions Step 1: Check if trinket fits Before starting, make sure the trinket you picked out fits inside the mold. Step 2: Cut base into cubes Cut your base into 1-inch cubes to allow for easier melting. You can approximate the amount to melt by seeing how many chunks fit into the mold. TIP: Use …
Instructions Step 1: Write the word boy Write the word ‘boy’ using only lowercase letters. Leave a bit of space between each letter. Step 2: Draw the eyes Put dots inside both the ‘b’ and the ‘o.’ Step 3: Make a jawline Connect the tail of the letter ‘y’ to the bottom left-hand corner of …
Instructions Step 1: Put on sunglasses Put on your sunglasses—you don’t want to hurt your own eyes. Step 2: Pick subject Decide on what subject you wish to shoot. Step 3: Position your back toward the sun and your subject Position yourself according to the orientation of the sun, with your back toward the sun …
Instructions Step 1: Analyze scene Analyze the scene, noting the amount of light present and the subject matter you will be shooting. You will be choosing an ISO based on these shooting conditions. TIP: The term ‘ISO’ refers to how sensitive the image sensor is to the amount of light present. Step 2: Medium-lit interiors …
Instructions Step 1: What shutter speed is Shutter speed denotes how long the shutter is held open to allow light to reach the film or, in a digital camera, the image sensor. TIP: Along with the aperture—or the opening in the lens—shutter speed regulates how much light the camera will record. Step 2: Determine shot …
Instructions Step 1: Check your batteries Make sure you have fresh batteries in both your camera and flash. Step 2: Mount the flash Take your camera and mount the flash on the hot shoe, the area directly on top of the camera that will accept the flash foot. Step 3: Tighten the flash Tighten the …
Instructions Step 1: Arrange set & still life Begin to arrange the set and still life. Step 2: Mount camera on tripod Mount your camera on the tripod. Step 3: Arrange backdrop If you’re using a backdrop, arrange the backdrop behind the arrangement at a minimum of 6 feet away from the subject. TIP: Your …
Instructions Step 1: Pick a subject Identify a subject. Step 2: Pick up camera and set to lowest ISO Pick up your camera and for digital camera users, select the lowest possible ISO for the current lighting conditions. TIP: Long exposures and high ISO tend to have more noise or digital grain than shorter exposures …
Instructions Step 1: Get a basket Buy a wicker basket. You can find them at craft stores, discount chains, farm stands, and even dollar stores. TIP: To jazz up an inexpensive basket, weave strips of ribbon around the top and handle. Step 2: Fill with grass Fill the bottom of the empty basket with fake …
Instructions Step 1: Plan ahead Plan ahead. First and foremost, get an idea of the approximate number of participants so you know how many eggs, baskets, prizes, and hiding spots you need. TIP: Devise a Plan B with an inside location in case the weather doesn’t cooperate. Step 2: Hide the eggs On the day …
Instructions Step 1: Hard-boil the eggs Put eggs in a saucepan, add water until they’re covered, and gently bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for ten minutes. Remove from the heat completely and add very cold water to stop the cooking process. Step 2: Cover up Put newspapers over your table or …
Instructions Step 1: Go to flickr.com Go to www.flickr.com and click ‘Create Your Account.’ Step 2: Make a Yahoo! ID At the next page, sign up for a free a Yahoo! ID or sign in if you already have one. Step 3: Create your Flickr account You’re now on an account creation page, with two …
Instructions Step 1: Turn off auto mode Take your camera off auto mode and select either aperture-priority or manual mode. TIP: A great way to learn aperture is in aperture-priority mode, where you choose the aperture and the camera sets the appropriate shutter speed. Step 2: Select focal point Look at your subject and select …
Instructions Step 1: Set your camera phone Set your camera phone to take the highest quality (and largest file size) photo possible. Step 2: Clean your camera lens Make sure your camera lens is clean—and that you know exactly where it is! Step 3: Arrange your subjects Arrange your subjects or scene as you see …
