It’s the time of year when many of us want our homes decorated with elements of the season. It’s also the time of year when we may have extra time with our children to create holiday memories. Here are some simple and charming craft ideas that will help see you through both fall and winter.
Contact Paper Collages
Clear contact paper is a crafter’s ally. One fun way to use it is to create collages and hang them like a stained-glass banner. Collect items such as leaves and pine needles or create paper cut-outs of holiday shapes. Cut clear contact paper in squares, adhere the items to the contact paper and cover with a second sheet of contact paper to seal it. You can then cut the paper to whatever shape and size you desire. They make a great banner or bunting hung near a window. You can also skip the second sheet of contact paper on the top and adhere the collage directly to a window.
Supplies:
- Clear contact paper
- Flat collage items
- Scissors
- String (optional)
Tip: Do not attach too many items to the bottom sheet as it makes it difficult to attach a cover layer.
Pine Cone Bird Feeders
Pine cones are everywhere this time of year. They are great for all kinds of crafts including painting, dipping in glitter and using as home decor. They also make wonderful, natural bird feeders. All you need is a larger pine cone (preferably one with scales that are fully opened), peanut or sunflower butter and some bird seed. Tie a string around the top of the pine cone if you intend to hang it. Spread the peanut or sunflower butter on the pine cone, working it into the crevices as much as possible and coating the outside. Children love to spread the peanut butter and it is wonderful practice for fine motor skills. When this is done, roll it in the bird seed. You now have an all-natural, fully biodegradable bird and, let’s be realistic, squirrel feeder!
Supplies:
- Pine cones
- Peanut or sunflower butter
- Bird seed
Tip: Do this on a cookie sheet to save yourself some cleaning
Corn or Bubble Wrap Prints
Paint is a universal good time for children. Both dried corn on the cob or bubble wrap make great ways for children to make prints with paint. Dried corn can be found among fall decorating and craft supplies and sometimes with feed for animals in certain stores. If it’s getting close to time to wrap up and send packages, snag a piece of that bubble wrap. Children can spread paint on a cookie sheet and either roll the corn or dip the bubble wrap, then press the painted item onto paper to make fun prints.
Supplies:
- Dried corn still on the cob or bubble wrap
- Paint: tempera paint works best
- Paper
Tip: These prints would make great framed gifts or could be made into holiday cards.
