How to Make a Paper Mache Bowl

 

Paper mache is a fun way for kids to make a functional gift.  Here are several really cute examples.

Bread and buttons has a really great idea on how to use paper marche techniques with fabric strips creating a fun colorful bowl.

Good for ages 4 and up.

Get the instructions here:

http://breadandbuttons.typepad.com/blog/2011/02/process-vs-product-cast-your-vote.html

 

Carolyn's homework uses pre-cut circles to give her version a unique look.  

Get the instructions here:

http://carolynshomework.blogspot.com/2013/03/inkling-paper-mache-confetti-bowl.html

Kix cereal paints theirs in vibrant jewel tones.

Get the instructions here:

http://www.kixcereal.com/kix-cereal-paper-mache-super-bowls-craft/ 

Molly moo crafts creates a beautiful texture using egg cartons.

Get the instructions here:

http://mollymoocrafts.com/papier-mache-bowls/

The pink doormat paints her version black and gold.

Get the instructions here:

http://thepinkdoormat.blogspot.com/2013/02/paper-mache-bowls.html

Crayon Colored Lanterns

Stylist has a fun way to make lanterns using crayons to decorate paper brown bags. You'll need to help with the melting part. They recommend using an iron to melt the colors.

Good for ages 3 and up.

Get the instructions here:
http://www.stylelist.com/2012/02/23/craft-of-the-day-crayon-lanterns_n_1296588.html

Artful kids uses paper bags with handles.

Get the instructions here:
http://artful-kids.com/blog/2012/02/06/childrens-art-lanterns/

Easy to Make Lacing Cards

Lacing cards are a great fine motor activity for the preschool set and super easy to make.  Find some ideas with these tutorials. 

Tot school shows how to make some easy lacing cards your preschooler will love and provides several templates. They can even help with the punching if their little hands are strong enough.

Good for ages 3 and up.

Get the instructions here:
http://totschool.shannons.org/?p=3422

Teal and lime suggests punching holds into premade card stock shapes.

Get the instructions here:
http://www.tealandlime.com/2011/12/diy-lacing-cards-kids-gift/

Kpmattingly uses cookie cutters as stencils to create the lacing cards.  

Get the instructions here:

http://kpmattingly.wordpress.com/2008/10/08/homemade-lacing-cards/

Painted Boxes

Pysselbolaget has a great idea for how to reuse face cream jars using only spray paint and affixing small figurines to the top.

Good for ages 9 and up.

Get the instructions (in Swedish) here:
http://pysselbolaget.se/2012/02/21/lyxig-smaforvaring/

Make Your own Foil Necklace

Make and takes has a cute way to make a foil pendant out of aluminum foil, sharpie markers and yarn.

Good for ages 8 and up.

Get the instructions here:
http://www.makeandtakes.com/foil-pendant-craft-for-kids

How to Make a Woven Rug

Flax and twine has a great tutorial on how to weave a rug using a hula hoop as a base and colorful yarn.

Good for ages 10 and up.

Get the instructions here:
http://www.flaxandtwine.com/2012/02/woven-finger-knitting-hula-hoop-rug-diy.html

Lindsay and andrew uses vibrant t-shirts and add a fun fringe,

Get the instructions here:
http://lindsayandandrew.blogspot.com/2011/07/t-shirt-rug.html

Make Your Own Paperweight

Little blue boo shows you how you can make a unique paper weight out of beads, buttons or anything small and plastic. The main ingredient is clear plastic resin and a simple round circle mold.

Good for ages 10 and up.

Get the instructions here:
http://www.lilblueboo.com/2012/03/cast-resin-paperweights-coasters-a-tutorial.html

Alpha mom dresses up rocks with fabric including a fabric initial.

Get the instructions here:
http://alphamom.com/family-fun/crafts/diy-paperweights-are-easy-to-make-holiday-gifts/