Guest Post: This post was written by James Lander of www.Couponing.com,
a site whose mission is to make couponing etiquette and techniques
common knowledge.
Back when entertainment wasn't as readily available as it is now, people relied on something else entirely for amusement- imagination. If you put your reservations and pre-conceived ideas aside and you may be surprised to discover that crafting either alone or with family, not only makes the time pass quickly, but can be very rewarding.
After all, in our media driven world, when was the last time you held something and
shouted, "I made this!!!"?
A trip to your local craft supply store can be a little overwhelming. Supplies for projects abound and the price can be outlandish to say the least. However, like the crafter of yore you can find everything
you need around either in nature or in your own home.
Crafting from the outside in nature related crafts are an inexpensive way to celebrate the changing of the seasons. They are also easy enough to make that the whole family can join in, including the youngest members. Perhaps the best part of this project lies in the collection of items. You may find taking a walk with your friends or family in order to seek out what each of you considers indicative of the season more enjoyable than the crafting itself!
Wreaths
Supplies:
- Straw Wreath (available at local craft stores)
- Hot glue gun or floral wire
- Scissors
- Items from nature
Instructions:
- After collecting what inspires you from outside, clean your items gently and allow them to dry.
- Heat your glue gun (if using)
- Arrange your items on the wreath by either gluing them or wiring them to the straw wreath or skeleton
Crayon Rocks
Children will enjoy this craft, but be sure that you supervise them carefully. Not only are the rocks heavy, but once heated they need to be handled with great care. Once finished these rocks are pretty enough to gift or to use in gardens as decorations
Supplies:
- Various sized and shaped rocks
- Crayons
- Insulated Pads
Instructions:
- Heat oven to 350 degrees and warm cleaned rocks for fifteen minutes.
- Remove with oven mitts and place on insulated pads to prevent scorching any surfaces.
- With strict supervision, use crayons to decorate the rock in any manner you and your fellow crafter's wish.
Because media is so accessible now, many of us can't imagine a life where we couldn't stay in continual touch with our friends or download whatever we like, instantly. Some even start to get sweaty when there's no Internet access. However, it's not fair to blame the technology that keeps us to comfortably entertained. It's up to us to make the choice.
Exercise restraint and use your imaginations once and a while to source out amusement. Not only is this an important lesson to teach the next generation, you may find yourself strangely refreshed by the time away from the various screens in your home.
FOR MORE AFFORDABLE CRAFT IDEAS MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT THE CRAFTS AND ACTIVITIES TAB! HAPPY CRAFTING!