Winter Crafts

Winter days indoors are at hand, and what is more fun for kids than making craft items? Here are some ideas for very easy things kids of all ages can make.

A little snowman pin can be made with a glue-on pin back, two white buttons (2 holes each), a bit of ribbon, a small bit of felt, and white glue or hot glue. Position the buttons right side down on the work surface so that the holes are aligned like eyes on one button and like vest buttons on the other. Glue the pin back to the buttons. When the glue is dry, cut out and glue on a little felt hat shape, and tie a small bit of ribbon on to look like a scarf.

Kids can make window clings with a baggie, fabric paints, paper, and glitter. First, cut the paper to a size that will lie flat in the baggie. Then trace or draw any design onto the paper. For example, a snowman shape, a snowflake, or a candy cane will work. Slip it into the baggie. Use the fabric paints to paint the design onto the baggie, following the lines of the drawing on the paper within. Sprinkle some glitter onto the wet paint if desired. When the paint is completely dry (it may need to dry overnight), just peel off your painted window cling.

Another fun idea is to make an ice light. Fill a bowl with a couple of inches of water and freeze it outside or in the freezer. Make sure it is level. Then put some pennies or small stones for weight in an empty yogurt cup (smaller at the bottom type). Center the cup in the ice-bowl, and add two inches more water. Freeze again. Remove the cup, and put in a votive candle.