In the mood to inspire a little patriotism in your children for the Fourth of July? Well grab some construction paper and dust off that glue gun. Quicker than you can sing "Yankee Doodle Dandee," you and the kids can create some fun, patriotic craft projects...just in time for July Fourth!
Fourth of July Stilts:
Puncture two holes in opposite sides of two different aluminum cans. Drain cans of contents fully, remove label and leave overnight to dry. Paint cans white, when they are dry sponge paint red and blue stars on cans. Allow cans to dry. For handles, tape one end of length of a clothesline to a skewer and pull through. Remove skewer and voila! (idea courtesy of artistshelping children)
Patriotic Fan:
This is a fun and easy project that even the non-craftiest person can complete. All you need is some white cardstock, wooden sticks, glue, and crayons and glitter. Cut the cardstock into a 10x10 piece and let your kids go to town decorating it with red and blue crayons, markers and glitter. When they are done, attach the cardstock to a wooden stick with glue and let it dry for a couple of hours. When it is fully dry it makes a great fan to stay cool with on a hot fourth of July day.
Star Flower Pots
Get a inexpensive terracotta flower pot from your local hardware store. Paint the pot with navy blue paint and allow it to dry overnight. The next day, use a star stencil from a craft store and fill in with white paint all over the pot.
Red, White and Blue Sunglasses Holder
Cut a piece of elastic that will comfortably fit around neck if sunglasses are attached. Using red, white and blue colored plastic beads, alternate beads all the way up string. Tie to the other end of your sunglasses and enjoy.
To buy items for these crafts projects, or for other fun ideas for Fourth of July arts and crafts, go to Dee's Crafts on Shelbyville Road.
Photo: courtesy of Artists Help Children
