Tag Archives: art projects

Lessons Learned The Hard Way: Avoid Oil Paints

I’m a pretty laid back person and encourage my children to always try new things. Not much irritates me or has made me fret over how white my carpets are or how clean the floors are. This peaceful aura was only accomplished after having raised five daughters, mostly on my own. However, several years ago we tried an art project that made me wish I had a time machine that would transport us back to the day before I conceived this bright idea. A fan of the Charlotte Mason method, I loved teaching my children about classical music, books, and … Continue reading →

St. Patrick’s Day Fun for the Entire Family

Moms, dads, grandmas, grandpas, kids, and second cousins once removed, can all get in on St. Patrick’s Day fun with the following simple ideas. The first is an easy craft project that will ensure that no one in the family will get pinched for not wearing green. Meanwhile, the second suggestion is a great way to encourage reluctant participants to get into the holiday spirit. After all, no one can resist chocolate, so why not gather the clan to whip up some tasty St. Patrick’s Day Peppermint Pattie Pudding? GREEN AND GOLD ST. PATRICK’S DAY PIN Materials (for one pin): … Continue reading →

More Easy Thanksgiving Pumpkin Crafts

Pumpkins are traditionally used as Halloween decorations, but when placed strategically they can really liven up a Thanksgiving display as well. Fresh pumpkins can still be purchased at most grocery stores and some local farms, though they are not as readily accessible as they were in September and October. If you can get your hands on fresh pumpkins (for the right price), consider crafting the following Thanksgiving-themed decorations: PUMPKIN TURKEYS This project is kid-friendly and serves as a great craft to complete while your Thanksgiving turkey is cooking. Materials: Small Pumpkins Ice Pick Lollipops Colored Construction Paper Markers Directions: Poke … Continue reading →

A Week’s Worth of Seasonal Fun for the Entire Family

So long jack-o’-lanterns, hello turkeys. Now that Halloween is over it’s time to think Thanksgiving. This week I shared a number of fun craft ideas featuring fall themes. In addition, Pam contributed ways to create a family-oriented Election Day party. We rounded out the week with ways to make the most of autumn’s golden days as a family. If you didn’t get a chance to read all about it, here’s what you missed: November 3rd—–Fun Fall Crafts for Preschoolers: Homemade Trees. If you have a craft-loving tot at home this project is a great way to let his inner artist … Continue reading →

Fun Handprint Art Projects for Kids

How many of you still have the very first handprint art project your child ever made? My preschooler’s handprint turkey is still attached to my bulletin board, despite the fact that she made it nearly two years ago. The nice part of saving handprint art projects is that you can compare the new masterpieces with the old ones to see how much your child has grown. The following handprint art projects are ideal for preschoolers, although they could be tailored to toddlers and older children as well. HANDPRINT WREATH Materials: Construction paper (yellow, orange, and red, or you could use … Continue reading →

Fun Fall Crafts for Preschoolers: Homemade Trees

On a scale from one to ten this craft is a solid three in terms of difficulty. Meaning if you have a preschooler like I do, he or she will have very little difficulty making these homemade trees. If you have a crafty toddler he or she might need a bit more help from you, and if you have a school-age child she could probably complete this project on her own. Regardless of your child’s age this project yields a wonderfully festive piece of seasonal art that is sure to be warmly embraced by a grandparent. CONSTRUCTION PAPER LEAVES In … Continue reading →

Photography Week in Review for November 12-November 17, 2007

Are you looking for tips on how to capture memorable snapshots of your family this holiday season? Or, perhaps, you are looking for a unique photo project to make for your Thanksgiving party. If so, then you’ve come to the right place. The Photography Week in Review is your one-stop shopping resource to get all the photo tips you missed over the past few days. November 12th—–My Favorite Photographer—Ansel Adams. He’s produced some of the most iconic and breathtaking images of American landscapes known to man. Ansel Adams is someone I take inspiration from in the field of photography. I … Continue reading →

Fancy Photo Flowers

In a previous blog I provided directions on how to create a picture bouquet using leftover headshots of your children or pets. The photo flower project is simple, affordable and the end result is sure to be appreciated by person who receives it. If you liked the way the first bouquet turned out then you’ll definitely want to try this next project. It’s a bit more labor intensive, but you don’t have to be in the same league as Martha Stewart to complete it. Instead of flowers made out of construction paper, this bouquet uses paper cupcake liners. The following … Continue reading →

Fun Photo Project: Photo Flowers

Ever since my grandmother was admitted to the hospital I have been desperately trying to create unique photo inspired art projects to brighten up her sterile room. I told you about our latest project in a previous blog, which I have since completed and sent to her. My daughter and I are now working on two more photo projects that can be used to put a smile on any recipient’s face. The following is easy, affordable, and the best part… it’s a great way to use leftover photographs. PHOTO FLOWERS What You’ll Need: • Colored construction paper • Scissors, Glue, … Continue reading →

More Fun Photo Projects

I hate throwing duplicate pictures into a storage container and letting the containers sit and collect dust. To avoid having to do so I try to find unique ways to display or present my favorite shots. The following are few simple and affordable ways you can put those extra pictures to good use. What’s more, the projects are easy enough for kids to get in on the action. PHOTO PLACEMATS This project makes a great gift for grandparents who live in a different state or nice present to give a friend who is moving to a new city. I use … Continue reading →