Here are some useful Mini Tips for you to try REALISTIC SOIL For great looking soil sit back and make yourself a lovely cup of tea! Realistic soil can be made by making a pot of tea using tea bags or loose tea leaves. Once poured allow the tea in the pot to cool, then simply remove the tea leaves or tea bags (split the tea bags open if using them). Spread out the tea leaves on a shallow dish and allow to dry. Once thoroughly dried rub them between your thumb and fingers to separate the tea leaves. Put them in a suitable container until needed. Do not use tea leaves or tea bags if milk has been added before removing the leaves or bags as they will go mouldy. When you want to use them, paint the area in an earthy colour and let dry, then spread plenty of good quality PVA glue (PVA wood glue is perfect for this) on the area required and liberally sprinkle on the dry tea leaves. Leave to dry thoroughly and then tap off any excess which can be replaced in the container for future use. For a more hard wearing soil effect mix 1 part PVA glue to 3 parts water and using a pipette dropper or mist spray bottle, coat the top layer of tea leaves and leave to dry. HUNDRED AND ONE THINGS TO DO WITH A LOLLY STICK Number 7 - Plant Pots You will need a suitable sized circular container or lid for the basis of the plant pot. Cut the lolly sticks down so that they are just a little taller than your circular container or lid and using a suitable glue, stick them to the side of your container making sure that the tops of the lolly sticks are level. Once dry sand down any raised lolly sticks so that the bottom is level and smooth. Paint or stain the lolly sticks and "plant" your favourite Dolls House sized plants or flowers. You could make some Nail Varnish Flowers as shown on our Club Projects Page. For a different style of top for your plant pot leave the rounded ends on the top or carve a design on the top.