The Fourth of July is one of my favorite events of summer. I am a patriotic person; but frankly I just love the community spirit that fills the air. Backyard barbecues and community fireworks are simply summer magic. It’s also the perfect excuse to get a little crafty. Here are three simple ways to add some crafting into your holiday celebration.
I love getting the children involved in creating centerpieces for the table. It can be a really fun group activity. This year we are using mason jars, some red, white, and blue found objects and some fun patriotic florals. I recommend grouping items in color families, laying the items out on the table, and allowing everyone to fill, stack, and arrange their jars as they wish. For some added light on the grab a few battery operated tea lights to drop inside a few of the jars. Filler items like seashells, sea glass and marbles do reflect light tealights and sunshine beautifully.
As a child, I always loved the chance to run around with sparklers; but now that I am a mom, they are less fun and more terrifying to me. I decided this year that we would make some star spangled wands instead. These are so much fun to make. Just grab some dowels, foam stars, and sparkly ribbon and let everyone create one-of-a-kind “sparklers” of their own. These are a perfect pain free way to show your red, white and blue spirit. As always be sure to supervise your little ones with any toy.
Our last craft this year is one that I think is perfect for a craft table at a party. All you need is black construction paper, tissue paper squares, glue, and leftover dowel rods. Wrap the tissue paper around the end of the dowel rod, dip it lightly in the glue, and place it on the construction paper to make your own firework scene. I’m always amazed at how unique everyone’s designs turn out. For added fun include some glitter paint on the table to add a little bit of sparkle to those gorgeous pops of color.
I hope you have a happy, safe, and crafty Fourth of July!