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How To Make Slime And Playdough For Your Kids
Kids of all ages love to play with slime and playdough, but rather than spending your money on the premade stuff, why not make your own?

5 Types Of Sewing Machine Foot Explained
There are a lot of types of sewing machine foots out there, but how many of them do you actually need? At Spotlight we’re delighted to offer you a huge range of sewing machine foot types, (as well as other sewing machine accessories)...

How To Make Friendship Bracelets With Beads + Ideas!
Whether you’re making DIY friendship bracelets for your buddies or creating your own unique beaded jewellery, learning how to do beading is a great skill for anyone to have.

How To Mix Paint Colours
If you love to paint, you’ll know the pain of wishing you had the perfect shade or colour when you don’t have it on hand, or you can’t find it at your local art store. While the range of paint supplies at Spotlight is vast, having the ability to make...

5 DIY Father’s Day Gifts For Dad
It’s never a bad time to be thinking about gifts for dad, but Father’s Day is an extra-special occasion! Father’s Day is a great opportunity to show dad how much you love him, and making your own Father’s Day crafted gifts is a fantastic way to show...

Five DIY Sewing Patterns And Projects To Try
Whether you are looking for beginner sewing projects to learn from or are an advanced sewer looking for your next challenge, Spotlight’s 12 Days of Sewing event is bound to have a sewing project (or two) for you to try out. No matter if you want…

The Guide To Painting Shadows For Beginners
Adding shadows and highlights to your artwork may seem like an afterthought, but it’s crucial to get them right if you want your artwork to have realistic depth and layers… know how to paint shadows, you can take your painting game to the next level!

Crafty Ideas To Help You Celebrate Book Week
For many teachers and students Book Week is one of the most exciting times of the year, where everyone’s favourite books and characters are celebrated in style. Decorating the classroom, playing games and dressing up as popular characters are all...

The Benefits Of Finger Painting - For All Ages!
With its range of benefits and simple execution, finger painting is the perfect way to fill time and have fun while you’re at it! Traditionally the domain of very young children, finger painting can actually benefit adults as well - so let Spotlight…

What Is Gouache Paint, And How To Paint With It
While we all know the main three types of paint, acrylic, oil and watercolour, there is a fourth that both beginner painters and professional artists love to use… gouache paint! Gouache paint is easy to use, comes in all your favourite colours…

5 Essential Skills To Make You An Icing Pro
You’ve done the hard part - you’ve baked a delicious cake, a tray of cupcakes or a pan of brownies. But now you need to dress them up - after all, we eat with our eyes before our mouths, and a decorated dessert will set mouths watering!

How to Master Drawing With Markers - The Ultimate Guide
Markers are the artistic choice for many of us children, due to their bright colours and mess-free use. But no longer are markers confined to the pencil cases of school kids! Professional artists embrace drawing with markers for a number of reasons…

Meet Retro Textile Designer Ellie Whittaker
I design bright and bold, Aussie fabrics that I like to think of as ‘new nostalgia’. Each of my designs is imbued with the colour and whimsy of my 80s childhood. I also like to weave stories through each design: unexpected elements and truly Aussie…

How To Use Watercolour Pencils
What do you get when you combine the ease of use and level of detail available using a pencil with the glowing colours and blendability of watercolour paints? The answer is the watercolour pencil, an amazing art tool that is much loved by both…

Get To Know Jaharn, An Inspiring DIY Upcycler
My name is Jaharn and I have a website called Smor Home, where I’m all about sharing affordable and sustainable DIY and upcycling projects for your home. My purpose is to reduce the impact of fast furniture by showing you how you can transform…

Acrylic Painting Techniques
Acrylic paint is beloved for its quick dry time, bright colours and flexibility, plus it cleans up easily from clothes and most surfaces. Out of all common paint types it has the most kinds of mediums, meaning you can modify your acrylic paint in…

DIY Wedding Ideas
Your wedding day is one of the most important and special days of your life, but with all that importance often comes a hefty price tag. One of the best ways to keep costs low but still have an amazing day is to try your hand at making some of your own…

Get To Know Cheerful Pottery Artist Shelby Sherritt
My name is Shelby Sherritt and I am an Australian Pottery artist. I create colourful, bright, and fun pottery that pays homage to Australian landscapes, flora and fauna. Using vibrant colours I create whimsical characters that bring joy with clay.

Discover Cosplay Fabrics At Spotlight
When making your own cosplay costume, finding the right cosplay fabrics and materials can be one of the hardest parts of putting your costume together. Finding fabric for cosplay that has the texture and colour you need can have you…

Types Of Paint Brushes & How To Choose One
Finding the right paintbrush can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack - there are so many sizes, materials and shapes to choose from, the choice can quickly become overwhelming! We have many paint brush types for you to choose…

Five Sewing Projects For Beginners To Improve Your Sewing Skills
Are you new to sewing and need to better your basic sewing skills? Being able to sew straight, attach zippers and create darts are just some of the basic skills that will turn your rough projects into wearable pieces, and once you've got the basics…

How to sew - a guide to sewing for beginners
Want to learn how to sew? Spotlight’s guide to sewing for beginners will help you learn to use a sewing machine and basic sewing techniques - read how here!

Your Guide to Soft Pastels
Looking for a medium that is colourful, fun and easy to use? Pastels may bring to mind a child drawing at school, but soft, hard and oil pastels are the tools of the trade for many professional artists, and can be used to create absolutely stunning...

Making Pottery For Beginners
For a hobby that is relaxing, hands-on and ends with the creation of useful homewares and decor, look no further than the age-old art of pottery making! You can make bowls, cups, plates, jewellery and more out of clay, and when fired correctly…

How to make textured canvas art and the impasto technique
Practiced by the masters and still incredibly popular today, impasto painting involves creating a textured painting with paint that rises off the page in peaks and waves. It allows the artist to create an incredibly detailed painting that is also...

Discover how Chloe creates her adorable amigurumi toys and patterns!
Welcome to The Creative Files, where we speak to some of the biggest crafters, makers and designers, gaining insights into their creative processes, inspiration and their advice for newcomers. This week we were able to catch up with Chloe, the…

Celebrating Australian and New Zealand Designer Fabrics at Spotlight
At Spotlight, we are proud to have partnered with talented artists from all across Australia and New Zealand to create a series of stunning fabrics you can use in all your home projects. Each of these creators brings their own unique vision and style…

Back To School DIY Ideas & Essentials
Make this school year a creative one with Spotlight! Find your back to school essentials here, as well as DIY stationery ideas to make your supplies unique.

Get Your Classroom Ready For The School Year
Are you in need of some classroom decoration ideas? Check out Spotlight’s guide on classroom decorating, including popular classroom themes & budget tips!

How to paint on fabric
Cotton canvas and art paper are the two most popular materials for painting on, but have you ever considered painting on fabric? Mastering fabric painting gives you the ability to paint straight onto canvas bags, shoes and your clothing, allowing you...

How to create a holiday scrapbook
Have you just returned from an amazing holiday? Many people like to post their snaps on social media, or maybe even create a special photo album filled with printed pictures from their holiday. If you love to craft, or are just looking for a more...

How to make a pom pom in 4 different ways
What’s not to love about pom poms? They’re soft, fluffy, light and can be made in any colour of the rainbow… plus they’re easy to create at home in a matter of minutes! Making pom poms is an activity crafters of all ages and experiences can enjoy…

Shadow box ideas and how to make one
Looking for a more interesting way to display your treasured photos, trinkets and memorabilia? The shadow box is just what you’re looking for! Essentially a photo frame with a larger depth, shadow boxes (also known as keepsake frames)...

Cosplay ideas, tips and tricks
Are you thinking of making your first cosplay costume, or are you an experienced cosplayer looking for some tips to make your next costume your best one yet? At Spotlight our range of fabrics, haberdashery, costume accessories and crafts contains…

How to tie dye & popular tie dye techniques
Whether you’re a beginner wondering how to do tie dye or an experienced dyer looking for helpful tips, this article has got you covered. Read on to find out everything you need to know about how to tie dye, including pattern inspiration, colour setting…

Decorate your Christmas tree with fillable baubles
Decorating the Christmas tree is one of the best parts of setting up for the silly season, and this year fillable baubles are one of our favourite ways to add a unique and crafty touch to your décor. Read on to find out everything you need to know…

Four easy Halloween face paint ideas
Face paint can be the cherry on top of an already horrifying Halloween costume - take your scary outfit to the next level with any of these face paint tutorials!

How Kali juggles a frenetic 9-5 job with her passion for sewing her own clothing
Welcome to The Creative Files, where we speak to some of the biggest crafters, makers and designers, gaining insights into their creative processes, inspiration and their advice for newcomers. We were super keen to chat with stylish sewer Kali, who...

Birthday Party Craft Ideas For Kids
Kids' birthday parties are often loud, busy and exciting events for both the attendees and the supporting parents. At Spotlight we know how to throw a good party, but did you know that when it comes to kids' parties, you have more options for...

How to choose the right painting easel
No matter if you are an experienced painter or just starting out, an art easel is an essential part of the painting experience that will help you take your creations to the next level. There are many benefits to using an artist easel, such as allowing…

Creating timeless custom pieces with one hand and handy sewing tutorials with the other - how Hannah does it!
Welcome to The Creative Files, where we speak to some of the biggest crafters, makers and designers, gaining insights into their creative processes, inspiration and their advice for newcomers. It was an absolute pleasure to chat with Hannah this week…

Three Quilting Projects To Get Creative With This Quilt Expo
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… if you’re a quilter, of course! Quilt Expo, Spotlight’s yearly love letter to everything quilting, is upon us, which means it’s time to grab your rulers, rotary cutters and sewing needles and start quilting!

How Bridget powered through Covid to create her incredible biscuit and cake business
Welcome to The Creative Files, where we speak to some of the biggest crafters, makers and designers, gaining insights into their creative processes, inspiration and their advice for newcomers. It was a pleasure to chat with Bridget this week, the…

Six Spooktacular Halloween Crafts & Projects To Try Your Hand At This Spooky Season
Whether it’s costumes, tableware or crafty ideas, Spotlight has everything you need to throw the ultimate Halloween party. We love everything handmade, so why not try making some of your own Halloween décor this year?

How Bec Arnold keeps herself busy by learning, making and playing with crafts
Welcome to The Creative Files, where we speak to some of the biggest crafters, makers and designers, gaining insights into their creative processes, inspiration and their advice for newcomers. We had an absolute blast this week chatting with Bec Arnold…

How Fat Bobbin Girl turned a lack of plus-size clothing into a creative company that fills the gap
Curious how Jess aka Fat Bobbin Girl create her inspiring plus-size sewing designs? Find out how she started her sewing journey and what inspires her here!

Introducing the Caron Ogo Yarn Range
The next innovation in yarn has arrived. Caron Colorama Ogo yarn features the gorgeous colours and hue transitions made famous by the Caron Cakes, but in a new format that avid knitters are going to love. Find Caron Ogo yarn online at Spotlight and…

Our favourite Caron Ogo yarn patterns and projects
With its anti-tangle design and beautiful transitory colours, Caron Ogo yarn is a dream to use for all your knitting and crochet projects. Got your hands on some of this yarn but are not sure how to proceed? We at Spotlight have collected our three…

How to draw a koala
Learn how to draw a koala with pencil, plus how to protect and frame your koala drawing with Spotlight. Video & images included. Read the full article here!

Everything A Beginner Needs To Know On How To Make Candles At Home
Candle making is an art that has been around since the times of the ancient Greeks, and while the exact process and candle making materials have been greatly refined over time, it remains a popular creative hobby to this day! Candles provide light…

How Fallon from Teacup Crochet Designs conquered crochet
Welcome to The Creative Files, where we speak to some of the biggest crafters, makers and designers, gaining insights into their creative processes, inspiration and their advice for newcomers. This week we chatted with Fallon, the talented creator of…

How growing up in his grandparent's art and craft shop shaped Mr Macramé's creative journey
Welcome to The Creative Files, where we speak to some of the biggest crafters, makers and designers, gaining insights into their creative processes, inspiration and their advice for newcomers. We are thrilled to have been able to chat with Mr Macramé…

The beginner’s guide to polymer modelling clay
Polymer clay is a versatile modelling medium that is suitable for use by crafters of all experiences. But what is polymer clay exactly? Unlike the natural clays you see being spun on a potter's wheel, polymer clay is a man-made substance based on…

Your guide to knitting for beginners
Fluffy scarves, warm beanies and toasty gloves - knitting is the perfect hobby to take up, particularly in the colder months! You can make all sorts of clothing, accessories and toys with nothing more than knitting yarn and a pair of needles, but…

Celebrating NAIDOC Week and the Warlukurlangu Artists
Celebrate the rich history of NAIDOC Week with us! Spotlight has partnered with the talented Warlukurlangu artists of the Yuendumu community to bring you four stunning Aboriginal art-inspired projects you can make at home. What is Warlukurlangu...

The ultimate guide to epoxy resin art
Resin art is taking the creative world by storm, and for good reason! Any art projects created with resin are hard, durable and glossy, with options for coating old paintings, creating artwork with coloured resin and even suspending objects in 3D resin…

How to choose & paint on canvas
If you are confident in painting on paper, then creating your next work of art on a canvas is a challenging but exciting step. Painting on canvas can be quite different to painting on paper, but don’t worry - this guide will help you learn all about…

The complete guide to watercolour painting for beginners
Watercolour painting is very different from its acrylic and oil painting cousins. Whether you are a new artist looking to learn how to paint or an experienced acrylic painter wanting to switch mediums, this guide will help you learn watercolour…

The Complete Guide to Flow Painting & Pouring Techniques
Looking for a fun, easy and effective way to create beautiful pieces of art? Fluid art, also known as flow art or flow painting, involves pouring prepared colours onto canvas and then letting the paint do the rest of the work for you - resulting in a…

Creating bold, punchy quilts and inspired designs - How Jemima Flendt does it all from her studio
Welcome to The Creative Files, where we speak to some of the biggest crafters, makers and designers, gaining insights into their creative processes, inspiration and their advice for newcomers. Today we spoke to Jemima Flendt, a passionate quilter who…

How to make a quilt with Jemima Flendt from Tied with a Ribbon
As part of this years' Quilting Expo, Spotlight has partnered with Jemima Flendt from Tied with a Ribbon to create this beautiful free quilt pattern. This Folk Floral quilt is the perfect quilt project for any quilters out there looking for a fun...

"Making things should be a joy, not a chore" - Katie Parrott on what inspires her incredible crafts
Welcome to The Creative Files, where we speak to some of the biggest crafters, makers and designers, gaining insights into their creative processes, inspiration and their advice for newcomers. This week we had the pleasure of chatting with Katie…

Mother’s Day craft ideas to make mum feel extra special this year
When it comes down to it, the only thing your mum wants for Mother’s Day is your love. So, imagine how wonderful she’ll feel if you take the time to create a unique Mother’s Day gift especially for her?

Tips and tricks for sewing fleece and flannelette
When the mercury drops, our desire to wear warm, soft and snuggly clothing rises, so that’s also when fabrics such as flannelette and fleece really come into their own. The main difference between these two materials is that one is a largely natural…

Getting started with art: a beginners guide to creating your first art toolkit
Need a reason to spend time making art? Research shows that artistic hobbies have a positive impact on our mental health and wellbeing. Art therapy, in particular, has been shown to lower stress – for beginners as well as professional types.

How To Make A Pinata In Two Ways
One of the best birthday activities for kids is the breaking of a pinata and the release of the treats within! You can buy birthday pinatas and accessories from Spotlight, but did you know that making your own pinata isn’t as hard as it looks?

Get inspired with fun craft ideas for Make it March
It’s Make It March – our annual festival of all things crafty and arty and stitch-y. That means celebrating all kinds of makers, from skilled-up champions to enthusiastic newbies.

How to Upcycle a Lampshade
Tonia Todman has returned once again to show us how to upcycle old lampshades and turn them into something new and unique.

Our favourite Easter crafts and ideas to make this year special
Celebrating Easter is all about spending time with your favourite people – plus bunnies and chocolate galore! This year Easter Sunday is April 17, so there’s plenty of time to make it meaningful and delicious.

4 great sewing projects for every skill level
To sew or not to sew? It's not so much a question at Spotlight but a given - we just can't get enough of sewing! That's why we're constantly coming up with useful and remarkable sewing ideas to keep crafty hands and minds busy. Whether you're a…

5 simple yet creative ways to personalise kids’ school stationery
Getting your kids school ready can be a stressful time for parents. Kids can be fussy when it comes to the look and style of their school stationery, which is all a part of their self-expression. However, off-the-shelf back to school supplies can have…

Get school ready with these fun school supplies
With two adorable children of her own, Stephanie Martinez understands just how stressful it can be when it comes to getting the kids school ready. Having demonstrated her creative prowess on Making It Australia on Network 10, Steph has teamed up with…

How to make these 3 festive Christmas cookies from one quick recipe
Add a personal touch to your festivities these holidays with these three quick and easy Christmas cookie ideas! Using only one recipe, you can quickly whip up these cute and delicious Christmas tree cookies so you can spend more quality time with your…

How to make an engagement party dress with Katie Parrott
Katie Parrott has partnered with Spotlight to create her own stunning engagement party dress using our great range of quality fabrics. Discover her tips for 'pattern hacking' and how she was able to design and make this absolutely beautiful dress!

Make Christmas extra special this year with this personalised Christmas ornament
There's nothing more heart-warming than a personalised Christmas ornament that means something special to you! This year we are lucky enough to have Rachel Bourke from @imakestagram share with us her favourite Christmas tradition - handmade resin…

3 Simple DIY Christmas Decorations to make at home
If you're already hanging out for Christmas, you're not alone. We all need some joy this year, so it makes sense to get in early on the holiday spirit. One way to do that is with DIY Christmas decorations. (It's easier than you think!) Channel your...

DO try this at home: 10 fun indoor activities for kids
We're all spending more time than usual at home right now. So if you need some new inspiration to come up with fun activities for the kids, you're not alone. Especially if you're looking for the kind of projects with minimal running and shrieking, and...

6 simple (and simple-ish) sew projects to try
It's our biannual 12 Days of Sew - a mini festival celebrating all things fabric, needles and thread. So we've pulled together six of our all-time favourite simple (and simple-ish) sew projects for everyone to get involved. Whether you’re at the...

DIY Book Week Costume: How to make a kids' Gumnut Baby costume
It’s nearly time for CBCA Book Week. If you’ve got kids in primary school, you'll know what that means: time for some literary-themed kids' Book Week costumes. (And plenty of reading, of course!) One book that never goes out of style is Snugglepot and...

How to sew: Katie Parrott's beginner sewing tips
If you want to learn how to sew, then you might be wondering where to start. We spoke with seasoned sewer and body positive fashion advocate Katie Parrott to give you her six tips and tricks to help you on your way. Kit & Storage - While there’s a huge...

National Science Week: 3 easy science experiments for kids
Who says science experiments for kids can’t be fun? And messy? And cute? And a bit gross? Just in time for National Science Week, we’ve concocted three easy hands-on projects that little ones will love. Because sometimes the best science experiments...

Gold! Gold! Gold! Get ready to support your team
Time to brush up on the national anthem and get into the green and gold! We’re cheering on Team Australia as they take on the world’s best in Tokyo, and we can’t wait to see how everything plays out. Watching our athletes swim, run and cycle their way…

Maker Special: All things DIY and creating with Geneva Vanderzeil
Geneva Vanderzeil is a DIY and craft lover from Brisbane, Australia. She is also an author, stylist, maker and photographer. Spotlight has teamed up with Geneva to celebrate Make It Month and she has shared some of her thoughts on all things DIY and...

Fine Motor Clothesline - Make Learning Fun!
This activity is perfect for developing a number of early learning skills including number recognition, 1:1 correspondence, subitising and of course fine motor skills. These fine motor clotheslines are super easy to put together and are lots of fun to…

Fine Motor Fridays - Creating STEM Learning Resources in the classroom
In Australian education, our school curricula can feel overcrowded, over-planned and overwhelming. The first things to be dropped off the end of the week of Reading, Writing and Mathematics activities are hands on craft and Art-based tasks that build…

3 ways with…a white t-shirt
We’ve all got a white t-shirt or two tucked away in the wardrobe or at the back of a drawer. If they’re not getting quite enough love as-is, it might be time to customise them into something more special. Here are three super-easy ideas for snazzing…

3 craft projects to do in front of the telly while bingeing on Netflix
It might not be mid-winter yet - we know because we can still feel our toes – but there is definitely a chill in the air. This means you’re officially allowed to sit in front of the telly and craft. Whether you’re curled up in front of your favourite…

Learn at home: Ally's tips & tricks to make it feel more like a classroom
How can other teachers set up their workspace to make it feel like the classroom? For many of us teachers, our classroom is our second home and hold a lot of inspiration for what we do each and everyday. Transfer whatever draws inspiration for you in…

Where I craft: Kate's home studio is pink & sparkly & super-organised
Former teacher and professional creative Kate Fisher is the artist behind KatFish Collection, a range of acrylic jewellery and bespoke pieces that's cute, colourful and sparkly - just like her craft room. Here, Kate shows off her wares, and her...

These DIY flower dangles are super pretty & easy to make
Flowers will never go out of fashion - and with fake flowers, you don’t even have to worry about them losing their bloom! This quirky and creative floral project will bring colour and cheer to a teen bedroom, lounge room or home office, or really...

3 fun projects to make with your kids (even if you're not super crafty)
We get it. Not everyone thinks of themselves as a crafty person. We could tell you that we believe everyone is capable of making cool stuff with their hands. But it's easy to forget that when the only things you have time to stitch are loose buttons...

How to get (back) into art as an adult
You'd be hard pushed to find a kid who doesn't love mucking around with paints and coloured pencils. But for some reason, many of us lose touch with our inner artist, sometimes even before we reach double digits. Perhaps it's when the teacher tells us...

The Best Bedding For Your Style Of Sleeping
At Spotlight, you can find a huge range of soft and firm pillows made out of many amazing natural and synthetic materials. One of the most important factors you need to take into account when choosing a pillow is how you like to sleep at night…

Simple Guest Bedroom Ideas For Your Spare Room
Now more than ever, we can all really appreciate having friends and family stay with us in our homes, especially if they're visiting from interstate or somewhere overseas for the first time in what may seem like an eternity.

How To Clean Inside Of A Kettle In 3 Different Ways
Cleaning your kettle doesn't have to be hard, and you can do it with simple kitchen staples you'll probably have at home. At Spotlight we have a kettle to suit every home, but it's important to keep them in good condition so they perform at peak...

5 Stunning Ways To Use Fairy Lights At Home
Your fairy lights don’t need to be stuffed away for eleven out of the twelve months of the year anymore - these whimsical decorations can be admired all year round with the right styling. Fairy lights decor can be enjoyed outdoors or inside every room…

Help Your Child Study Better With The Best Homework Station
Getting kids to study is never easy, but if they don’t have a good area to do their homework in it becomes downright impossible. It is easy for kids to become distracted when they’re in the wrong area or don’t have what they need at their desk…

Best Ways To Dry Clothes Without A Dryer
Washing and drying clothes is one of the constant chores that comes with life, and it's one you can't put off if you want to have clean clothes to wear. Washing clothes is easy enough, but getting them to dry can be hard depending on your living...

Easy Everyday Tablescaping Ideas That Will Blow You Away
Your choice of dining table decor can go a long way into how enjoyable the meal served on it turns out! Tablescaping is the art of decorating your dining table and the space around it, and while the term ‘tablescape’ is fairly new, people have been…

Relax In Your Own Coastal Oasis With Serene Haven
Transform your home into an oceanic paradise using the features of our Serene Haven home decorating trend. Permeate every room of your home with the airy, calming influence of this deep-sea style that mixes the modern stylings of technology with…

How to decorate your home this Christmas
The most magical time of the year has come around again, which means it’s time to start thinking about how you want to decorate your home for Christmas. At Spotlight we have a huge and beautiful range of quality Christmas decorations…

Why You Need Blockout Curtains This Summer
As temperatures start to climb in the latter half of the year, we begin to start looking for ways to cool our homes from the relentless Australian summer heat. And while everyone loves a bit of air conditioning, it’s not the most cost-effective...

Every day is a holiday with Sun-Drenched Summer
Dreaming of a sunny holiday at home? Let Spotlight’s Sun-Drenched Summer home decorating trend inspire your kitchen, living and bed styling! Read how here.

How to create a summer look with sheer curtains
Craving those summer style vibes in your home? Let Spotlight help you create the look with breezy sheer curtains. Discover how to style sheer curtains here!

Theatre room ideas and setup - plus how to host a movie night at home!
‘Everyone loves the movies’ is a common phrase you hear during ads at the cinema - and it rings true for almost all of us. But when cinemas had to shut down during the pandemic, many of us had to make do with holding movie night at home. Luckily, this…

How to wash towels
We use them every day and they provide a valuable service, but do you really know the best way to wash and care for your towels? Your bath towels need to be properly maintained so they can help keep you clean and healthy, as well as keeping them soft…

Wall decor ideas - how to hang wall art at home
Create a beautiful home with the addition of some art to your walls! Wall art is the perfect way to fill that glaring space in your house you’ve often walked by but have not known how to utilise. Any home area can be improved with some clever wall...

Live inspired by nature with the Urban Paradise home decorating trend
Rejuvenate your living space with the Urban Paradise home decorating trend, a modern style fusion of urban modernity and untamed nature. Create your own indoor paradise that celebrates sustainability, durability and functionality, all while bringing…

How to create an office setup at home, plus extra home office ideas!
If you work in an office, chances are you now have the handy option of working from home for your job. Working remotely cuts commute time and has given employees more flexibility than ever before, but it does mean you need to create your own office…

Pantry organisation ideas & how to organise your pantry
Pantries serve an essential role in our homes, keeping our food clean, dry and away from animals and pests. But after doing your grocery shopping, making the effort to put away everything neatly can just be a little too much. So we chuck our groceries…

Refresh your home with the colours of Spring using the In Bloom trend
Transform your home into a refreshing blend of the indoors and outdoors using the In Bloom home decorating trend. In Bloom, as the name suggests, celebrates springtime and all the joys of a fresh new season. Bring the warmth, sweet scents and bright…

The ultimate guide to home mirrors & mirror wall décor
Want to use mirror décor to transform your home? Check out Spotlight’s guide to decorative mirrors, including styling inspo and cleaning tips. Read here!

How to set up the ultimate home bar
Whether you are in the mood for a quiet drink or are having guests over for a party, a home bar can be a useful area, style centre and talking point all in one! Home bars provide you with a space to both store and display bottles of wine, beer and…

Living room lighting: everything you need to know
When it comes to sprucing up your living room you’ve got a lot to consider. Furniture, rugs, flooring and accessories all come to mind, but how much thought have you put into your lighting? The room lights in your lounge can affect how inviting and cosy…

How to choose & style a coffee table
Nothing ties a living room together quite like a central coffee table. Coffee tables provide an opportunity for having a lovely piece of furniture in your home that is useful as a surface for displaying things as well. Choosing the right coffee table…

Create a worldly home with the Global Gatherings home decorating trend
Bring warmth, colour and a sense of togetherness to your home this season with the cultural stylings of our latest home decor trend - Global Gatherings. This inviting and colourful home decorating guide will brighten up any room and can be seen in your…

Styling a room with faux greenery and artificial plants
Indoor plants can add colour and style to your home, plus they have the benefit of purifying the air. But maintaining indoor plant decor can take up a lot of your time, plus each type of plant has its own care needs that you need to adhere to. No time…

The complete rug guide to style your home
Rugs can add texture, warmth and colour to your home, and among the most popular are bedroom rugs and living room rugs. Rugs are easier to lay down and clean than a full layer of carpet, and can go from the centrepiece of a room to a supporting role…

6 mistakes to avoid when hanging curtains
Introducing curtains into your home can help with privacy, insulation and light control. The huge variety of heading types available ensures you will be able to style them to suit any room. Hanging curtains yourself is a great way to save money, but…

Dark Elegance: the home décor trend you'll want to indulge in this year
Rejuvenate your living space with the innovative fusion of modern technology and vintage luxury of the Dark Elegance trend. Invoking opulent fabrics, rich colours and warm metallics, this home decorating trend can be applied to your linens, tableware…

How to make your own DIY curtains with Katie Parrott
Katie Parrott is an Australian sewer, crafter and passionate plus-sized fashion advocate. While she is normally seen sewing her own garments, Katie takes us through her process of how to make your own curtains with Spotlight’s Cut, Hem and Hang fabric.

How to layer your window like a pro
Barely-dressed windows can make your home look a little empty, while window furnishings that are over-layered with curtain styling can look messy and distracting. Here at Spotlight we have the largest range of materials and accessories available…

10 Storage Solutions for Wardrobes
Are you at the stage where it takes you ten minutes to find something in your wardrobe, or do you try to pull out one piece of clothing and three more come out with it? In 2021, it was found that out of all our clothes, we are only wearing 55% regularly.

5 Reasons Why You Should Invest In Blockout Blinds & Curtains This Winter
Through rain, hail or even snow, you can rely on Spotlight’s range of blackout curtains and blinds to help you maintain a comfortable temperature in your home! Here are our top five reasons to invest in blockout blinds and curtains this winter.

Making your home the ideal retreat
As we all continue to adapt to an ever-changing world, the need for our homes to provide peace and harmony - a place where we can retreat – has become more and more important.

How to prep your kid’s bed for summer, with May Gibbs
May Gibbs characters are a treasured part of any Australian childhood. From Snugglepot and Cuddlepie and their gumnut baby friends to the cute native flora and fauna who populate her tales: butterflies, kookaburras, and even the odd cheeky goanna!

How to create a Christmas table setting in 5 easy steps
Preparing the dining table for a fabulous festive lunch or dinner is the perfect excuse for getting creative with your Christmas table settings. With a little bit of imagination, your Christmas table can be a feast for all the senses, and one that is…

How to decorate a Christmas tree like a professional in 6 simple steps
There are so many different looks for styling Christmas trees these days - ones that go beyond the familiar fir or pine tree with red, green and gold decorations. But, there's nothing quite like having a traditional tree in the living room to really get…

Geneva Vanderzeil’s guide to making festive front door DIY Christmas decorations
Geneva Vanderzeil has teamed up with Spotlight to create an easy guide for decorating your front door with these simple yet fantastic DIY Christmas decoration ideas. You will find everything you need to get started below, including Geneva's helpful…

Beat the heat with these summer bedding ideas
When it comes to your bed, what was so warm, comforting and snuggly in winter can turn into a sweatbox over the summer months. That’s why you should change your bedding with the seasons so, no matter what the weather, your bed is a retreat that is…

Worldly Wonders Trend: Home decor ideas to add flavour to your home
Beautiful South East Asia has served as a popular holiday destination for Australians for many decades, with culture-rich histories stretching back millennia and opulent design influences offering a true sensory indulgence. To immerse yourself through...

Home decor ideas to make your home a peaceful and tranquil space
Home is your sanctuary – your place of refuge – where you can turn down the volume of life and detox from the distractions of the world. Now more than ever, we need tranquility in our homes, and we can do that by introducing the appropriate colours…

Spring is coming! Refresh your home with these simple home decor ideas
Unbelievable as it might seem, spring isn’t too far off. And with it comes the opportunity to freshen up your place with a good old spring clean and some clever home decorating. So if you’re already pining for warmer weather, here are some spring…

Winter blankets: Create the cosiest bed ever with these layering tips
Everyone loves snuggling into a cosy bed when it’s cold outside, don’t they? Creating a winter-time nest by layering plenty of winter blankets and throws makes for a bedroom style that’s warm and welcoming – the perfect place to sip on a cuppa or read...

Baby, it's cold outside: 13 ways to keep your house warm this winter
Feeling the chill of the winter season? Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean your home can’t be cosy and warm – and super-inviting, too. Here’s how to live your best cosy life through the winter months, and create a snug and comforting place to...

How to give your interior design a luxe lift
You don’t need a passport or a plane ticket for international travel this year. Instead, why not take a first-class trip across the globe without leaving the comfort of your own home by drawing from the many luxurious yet affordable elements of the...

Creating a Winter Coastal theme for your home
The delights of the beach are not just for summer. Walking on the sand beside a wild ocean on a stormy day, the wind in your hair and winter woollies wrapped tightly around you, might be a far more idyllic scenario for some people than battling the...

How to make your bedroom cosy during a change in season
A Bedroom makeover is more achievable than you think. Creating a tranquil, cosy, beautiful bedroom as the season’s change is within reach. I promise you don't need to spend thousands of dollars or too much time creating a dreamy new space.

Real Plants? Faux Plants? Here's How To Mix Them Together
Nature has provided us with a lot of options when it comes to modern-day house plants. Apartments now overflow with flax and ferns, and it feels like half of Australia has taken to collecting cacti, succulents or spider plants. It’s a trend we’re…

15 Lazy (& Incredibly Satisfying) Things To Do Around The House This Afternoon
Ahhhh, a weekend afternoon with nowhere to go and nothing you have to do. Is there anything more blissful? We support your right to do absolutely nothing, if that's what you're after. But if you want some low-impact activities to enjoy while lazing…

You're Never Too Old For Fairy Lights
Oh, the humble fairy light: a sharehouse staple and classic feature of any self-respecting holiday display. There’s something a little magical about that glow. Beads of light strung up from the roof are reminders of everything from childhood parties…

In bloom: 5 ways to decorate with fresh flowers
Whether you're lucky enough to have someone give you flowers, or you buy them as a treat for yourself (or maybe you're a talented person who grows your own in the garden), there's nothing like having fresh blooms around the place. Here are five ideas...

Decorating with teens: How to style a bedroom you'll both love
Your baby’s all grown up - well, semi grown up - and wanting a bedroom with fewer dinosaur, fairy and farm animal designs. Time to sob a tiny bit in the corner and then plan to create a space you can both live with and love. Think of this as a bonding…

Get inspired with Lulu's bedroom makeover
Meet Lulu. She’s 13, and her bedroom at her dad’s new house used to be a bit… meh. Lulu knew she didn’t want a kid’s room anymore, and she had a few ideas of what she liked (including lots of flowers!) But she and her dad didn’t quite know how to…

Lara Jean, Claudia Kishi Or Regina George: Which fictional teen's bedroom is your design crush?
Even if it’s just a few boy-band posters on the wall, a lockable diary with ‘Keep Out’ on the front and a string or two of fairy lights, every teen bedroom tells a story. For most of us, it’s the first time we really get to have a say in our surroundings.

5 ways to (sort of) organise your teen's stuff
Most parents know the mix of dread, shame and horror that comes when you force open your teenager’s bedroom door. It’s OK, you’re not alone. Teenagers and messy bedrooms go together like coconut and lamingtons. But there are ways you can help them…

Video: Watch Lulu's bedroom makeover
Lulu just turned 13, and needs a fresh "grown-up" bedroom at her dad’s place. Watch her and her dad put together a whole new dream bedroom, taking in greenery and gold accents and photos of all her favourite people. There’s a revamped desk designed for…

7 ways to relax when you don't have a lot of time
If we had our way, there would be a certain number of hours in the day when we're on duty - then plenty of time to recover from the stress of it afterward. Instead, most of us are being pulled in a million different directions, with not much chance to...

Paula's creative home is kid-friendly & full of crochet
Right now, crocheter Paula Risanto is feeling a bit envious of her one-year-old son, Ren. He gets to wake up in what was - until recently - Paula's dedicated craft room, complete with wall of yarn, neatly filed craft books and accessories, and a heap...

3 Halloween Wreath Projects To Try This October
If love Halloween crafts, learning how to make a Halloween wreath is going to be your next obsession! Wreaths are usually reserved for Christmas, but keen Halloween DIYers have taken this tradition and made it a little spooky…

Get Into The Spooky Spirit With These 5 Halloween Pumpkin Ideas
The humble pumpkin has become an iconic symbol of Halloween due to the practice of carving jack o’ lanterns, and at Spotlight we have so many ways for you to bring this beautiful squash into your home this October.

10 Pet Halloween Costumes For Your Paranormal Pooch
Dressing up on Halloween is great fun, so why not get your pets in on the action with some of Spotlight’s scary, cute and funny pet costumes? Our pet Halloween costumes come in sizes to suit small, medium and large dogs, with pet costume ideas pulled...

How To Throw A Jungle Theme Party
Going to the zoo for birthdays is always fun, but why not save the travel time and bring the aesthetic of the zoo, and even the jungle, into your home instead? Kids of all ages love jungle, animal and safari themed birthday parties, and best of all...

How To Host A High Tea Party At Home
One of the best ways to enjoy time with your friends is during a high tea or afternoon tea party - but who’s going to step up and host high tea at home, and what is high tea exactly? If you are going to be hosting your own high tea, then you’ve come...

Celebrate Your Favourite Animals During Book Week 2023
So many of the best children’s stories feature animals of all kinds, so why not celebrate them during book week 2023? At Spotlight we have an amazing range of animal-themed costumes, decorations and craft activities you can utilise during book week...

10 Ready Made & DIY Book Week Costume Ideas For Teachers
Book week is approaching fast, and it’s time to get your costume sorted… especially if you’re a teacher! As a teacher, leading by example is probably something you do every day, and having a quality book week costume is a fantastic way to inspire your...

5 Steps To Throwing A Magical Masquerade Party
When it comes to party themes, there is none grander than the masquerade party. Emphasizing brilliant costumes, beautiful music and enchanting dancing, a masquerade or masked party can be enjoyed by partygoers of all ages.

Mother’s Day Gift And Celebration Ideas To Spoil Mum With
Does your mum deserve to be spoiled this Mother’s Day? Treat her with the right Mother’s Day presents from Spotlight! We have amazing gifts for every hard working mum out there, from soothing spa day essentials and delicious recipes for the perfect…

How To Throw A Hawaiian Theme Party At Home
Themed parties make choosing your food and decorations easy, and one of our favourite party themes has to be the Hawaiian party! A Hawaiian or tropical theme party is one you can rely on for amazing colours, delicious food and party games everyone…

Four Fun Ways to Celebrate the New Year
Looking for some fun themes for a New Year’s Eve party? The party specialists at Spotlight are here to help! We’ve come up with four fun New Year’s Eve party ideas anyone can try at home, to make staying in just as much fun as going out on the most...

Trending Halloween Costumes for 2022
Keen to dress up for Halloween but stuck on what kind of costume you want? At Spotlight we love to stay on top of what's trending in the dress-up and costume world, and Halloween 2022 is no exception! We've sourced adult and child Halloween costumes...

How to throw the ultimate 70s theme party
Looking for a party theme that will have your guests jumping, jiving and having an all-around good time? Look no further than a 70s themed party for all your groovy party needs! This iconic decade was the time of disco outfits, glam rock and rock…

How to throw the ultimate Halloween party
Need some Halloween party ideas? Check out our guide that covers Halloween costumes, Halloween party foods and horrifying Halloween party decorations here!

Create a Christmas in July dinner party table setting
Everyone loves a dinner party, and why not spruce your next one up with some Christmas decorations? Celebrating Christmas in July gives you the opportunity to experience all the festivities of a cold Christmas that, in Australia, we don't normally get…

Create the ultimate party cake with baking queen Katherine Sabbath
Known for her colourful and quirky cake designs, Katherine Sabbath is one of Australia's most talented bakers. From starting out as a high school teacher to becoming a MasterChef Australia judge in 2018, Kat has taken the baking scene by storm with...

11 Easy Steps to Create the Ultimate Kids’ Birthday Party
Planning a birthday party for a child can be a stressful and time-consuming task, especially if it's your first time. Kids need to be constantly entertained, fed and monitored during a party, which is a lot for busy parents to do as well as hosting!

Celebrate St Patricks Day At Home in 2023
St Patrick's Day is always a great excuse for a party, whether you're Irish or not! It’s a fresh new year and we’re leaving our troubles behind, and what better way than to have a colourful St Patrick’s Day party at home...

Celebrate Chinese New Year with these fantastic DIY decoration projects
The start of the Lunar New Year - otherwise known as 'Chinese New Year' - is a time of incredible vibrancy and joy. Many of us will associate this annual celebration with hanging and floating Chinese lanterns, the colours red and gold, and an abundance...

Celebrate the New Year in style with these New Years Eve party ideas
Staying in for NYE this year? Maybe you're thinking early fireworks for the kids and a few celebratory drinks before midnight. Or maybe you're looking to greet 2022 with a bang and a big New Year's Party for young and old. No matter what your New…

How to do summer better with our Summer Collection
There's so much to love about the Australian summer. Whether you and your family are heading to one of our many beautiful beaches, picnicking under the shade of a tree or just making the most of your very own backyard, adding the right items to your...

Christmas Eve Box: The new family tradition you’ll want to try this year
What does the night of December 24th look like at your house? Maybe it's all about Christmas traditions like prepping cookies for Santa (plus some carrots for the reindeer). Maybe you'll take a tour of neighbourhood Christmas lights, or hang up a...

Our non-scary guide to a last-minute Halloween (with costumes and spooky fun)
Are you scared yet? Halloween is nearly here: your once-a-year opportunity to celebrate everything spooky, silly and just plain weird. If you’ve left your Halloween prep to the last minute, never fear. You can still pull off a killer holiday…

Share the scares: Easy Halloween costume ideas for couples, families and furry friends
Whether Halloween this year is a party, some socially distanced trick-or-treating or a spooky Zoom hangout, dressing up is a big part of the fun. So why not share the fun with your nearest and dearest? Couples costumes let you get playful with your…

DIY Father's Day cards for crafty kids
What do dads love more than terrible jokes and bear hugs? Handmade gifts from their kids, of course. Father’s Day craft ideas are great for keeping kids entertained and helping them make all the special stuff that ends up going ‘straight to the pool…

Tis the season: Our best Christmas in July ideas and projects
Here in the Southern Hemisphere, Christmas usually means prawns and watermelon and Santa in boardshorts. Maybe sweating over a Christmas pudding if you’re really dedicated. It’s not the ideal season for a lot of traditional Christmas-sy things like egg...

Alisha Henderson's 10 Tips To Elevate Your Cake Making Skills
Looking to step up your cake making game? Then look no further. Baking queen Alisha Henderson from Sweet Bakes has shared her must-know tips to help you create your next show stopper party cake. Use a cake-table. If you want to create perfectly smooth...

Some of Australia's top cosplayers share their costume tips
Cosplay is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the world. And no wonder – there’s something pretty appealing about dressing up as your favourite movie, game or comic book character. Everyone wants to be a hero sometimes, right? Or an alien, witch…

9 weird holidays to pop on your calendar
We all know how to celebrate the big stuff. Kid's birthday party? Bust out the chocolate crackles. Christmas time? Fire up the fairy lights and keep the cat out of the tree. But what about those smaller, quirkier holidays? It turns out the calendar is...

Adulting: do you need an emergency gift stash?
Who among us hasn't forgotten Auntie Sue's birthday brunch till the very last minute? Or blanked on the number of parties your kids seem to be attending every Saturday afternoon?Who among us hasn't forgotten Auntie Sue's birthday brunch till the very...

Happy birthday parties at home: celebrating in isolation
We are living through some odd and anxious times right now. Most of us are shut inside. Even if we're lucky enough to be working from home, days can blend into one another - a bit like that weird week between Christmas and New Year's. We're seeing...