Hand-made Easter GiftIt’s the last day of March! Are you excited that winter is over? Are you enjoying some Out-like-a-lamb weather and looking forward to Easter (just one week away)? Are you in need of a craft to get you into the Spring Holiday spirit? Do you love handmade gifts for kids? Well then do I have just the thing for you!
Valentines (print and customize)
Store bought Valentines are easy but can be impersonal and cost money. Hand-made ones are special but take time and thought.
Here is a nice compromise. I have created printable Valentines that you can cut-out and customize to give them that personal touch for FREE.
Paint brushes made from natural materials
Today the freezing cold temperatures, that have turned us into shut-ins lately, rose just enough with the bright midday sun to allow us to get out into the backyard for a little bit. The sun felt good and my son and I had fun exploring as we gathered materials for our little project today.
Back in art school there was a teacher that had his students make art supplies from natural materials. I didn’t have that teacher but ever since then I have wanted to try it. I can’t believe it took me 22 years to do it! Continue reading
Doll created with fabric crayons
Printed Doll
Often the most fun and useful gifts turn out to the least expensive! I picked up Crayola fabric crayons for a stocking stuffer and my 6 year old daughter has already put them to good use creating a personalized baby blanket for her new niece. The project was all her idea and the blanket turned out so sweet! And unlike iron on transfer sheets the result is not plasticy and stiff. We simply followed the directions on the back of the crayon box. First she created the design on paper and then I ironing it onto fabric with a high polyester content. One thing to remember is that your design will transfer backwards so if the design has text you must write it backwards. Continue reading
hand-made doll's wardrobe
If you are low on cash and have some spare time and if your kids are young enough to not know the difference you can make a lot of their Christmas gifts.
I know, because I did it 2 Christmases ago when I met all three criteria! It was a lot of work but also a lot of fun! Consider it… Use your imagination, the internet, and the materials you already have. I made it a GOAL to buy a little as possible and use materials I already had from past projects, etc. Continue reading
holiday print (styrofoam, tempera, & craft-paper)
Styrofoam Printmaking
Save those to-go Styrofoam containers or well cleaned meat trays! Here is a kid-friendly art project that you will enjoy too: A print-making method which is great for making holiday cards, gift-wrap, or customized gifts. The great thing about prints is once you have a design you like, you can make multiples! Everyone on your list this season will love getting a personalized gift with your artistic touch (or at least they will say they do)!
Ideas for personalized gifts…
Journal, tote-bag, keepsake box, ornaments, t-shirt, apron
